It is your responsibility to help teach your Bestie how to be sociable
Raising a well-behaved and sociable Westie puppy is a rewarding experience. Known for their spunky personalities and intelligence, West Highland White Terriers can become excellent companions if given the right guidance. Early training, proper socialization, and consistent routines are key to raising a well-mannered and friendly Westie.
One of the most important aspects of raising a well-behaved Westie puppy is proper socialization. West Highland White Terriers are naturally confident and independent, but they can also be wary of unfamiliar people and situations if not socialized properly. It’s important to expose your puppy to a variety of experiences, including meeting new people, interacting with other dogs, and visiting different environments. The more exposure they have during their critical socialization period (between 3 and 14 weeks), the more comfortable and confident they’ll become as adults.
Arrange playdates with other puppies or enrol in a puppy socialization class to ensure that your Westie learns to interact well with others. Positive experiences early in life will help your puppy develop into a sociable and well-adjusted dog who feels comfortable in any situation.
Westies are intelligent and eager to please, but they respond best to positive reinforcement techniques. Rather than using harsh punishment, reward your puppy with treats, praise, and playtime when they display desirable behaviour. Consistency is crucial in training, so ensure everyone in the household is using the same commands and rewards.
Basic Commands
Start with basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it.” Keep training sessions short and fun, Westie puppies have lots of energy, but their attention span may be limited. Frequent, short training sessions will keep them engaged and help them learn faster.
Crate training is an excellent way to teach your Westie puppy boundaries while also providing them with a safe space to rest. A crate should never be used as punishment, but rather as a cozy environment where your puppy can feel secure when left alone. Crate training is also invaluable for housebreaking. Start by taking your puppy outside regularly, especially after meals, playtime, and naps, to reinforce good potty habits.
Accidents will happen, but don’t scold your puppy. Instead, reward them when they go potty outside. Consistency and positive reinforcement will help your Westie learn the appropriate place to relieve themselves.
Raising a well-behaved and sociable Westie puppy requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By prioritizing early socialization, training, and housebreaking, you’re setting the foundation for a confident, friendly adult dog. With love and guidance, your Westie puppy will grow into a well-mannered companion for years to come.
