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West Highland White Terrier (Westie) — Grooming Guide
How Often to Groom
- Brushing: 3–4 times per week
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
- Full haircut: Every 4–8 weeks
- Hand‑stripping (optional): Every 2–3 months
About the Westie
Westies have a wiry double coat with a harsh topcoat and a soft undercoat. Their coat can be maintained through clipping or traditional hand‑stripping to preserve texture. They are prone to skin sensitivities, so gentle, moisturizing products are ideal.
Before You Start
Your Westie Bathing Package includes everything needed to bathe this breed safely, including a Shampoo Dilution Bottle and a Moisturizing Shampoo for wiry coats. Your Grooming Package includes the tools needed for brushing, tidying, and maintaining their classic Westie outline.
Westie Bathing Package
Shop the recommended bathing package here:
Moisturizing Bathing Package
- Moisturizing Shampoo
- Shampoo Dilution Bottle
- Shammy Towel
- Microfiber Towel
Westie Grooming Package
Shop the recommended grooming package here:
Moisturizing Grooming Package
- Slicker Brush
- Metal Comb
- Shedding Comb
- Stripping Knife (optional)
- Thinning Shears
- Conditioning Spray (trial size)
Westie Care Package
Shop the full care package here:
Care Package
- Ear Cleaner
- Eye Wipes
- Paw Balm
- Nail Clippers
Additional Grooming Tools
- High‑Velocity Dryer (HV Dryer)
- Grooming Arm
- Extra Shammy Towel
- Extra Microfiber Towel
Step‑By‑Step Grooming Guide
1. Brush the Coat
Use a slicker brush to remove tangles from the legs, skirt, and body.
Follow with a metal comb to check for hidden knots.
2. Clean the Ears
Use ear cleaner and cotton to wipe the outer ear weekly.
3. Trim the Nails
Trim every 2–3 weeks.
Westies often have strong nails that grow quickly.
4. Bathe the Westie
Bathe every 4–6 weeks using diluted moisturizing shampoo.
Rinse thoroughly — their coat can trap residue.
5. Dry the Coat
Use a shammy towel, then a microfiber towel.
Finish with an HV dryer while brushing to prevent tangles.
6. Shape the Westie Outline
Use thinning shears to tidy the face, skirt, and underline.
Westies should have a rounded, chrysanthemum‑style face.
7. Optional: Hand‑Stripping
Use a stripping knife or your fingers to remove dead wiry coat every 2–3 months.
This maintains proper coat texture and reduces shedding.
Coat Notes
Westies should not be shaved down to the skin. Their double coat benefits from regular brushing and proper trimming.
Final Thoughts
Westies are moderately high‑maintenance due to their wiry coat and signature trim. A consistent routine keeps them clean, stylish, and mat‑free.
FAQ
How often should a Westie be groomed?
Brush 3–4 times per week; full haircut every 4–8 weeks.
Should you shave a Westie?
No. Their coat should be clipped or hand‑stripped, not shaved.
How do you prevent matting?
Regular brushing and HV drying.
How often should you bathe them?
Every 4–6 weeks.
But these tools pay for themselves faster than you think.
A typical groom costs $70–$120. If you go every 4–6 weeks, the tools usually pay for themselves in 3–5 grooms.
But the money isn't even the biggest part.
- You know exactly how your dog is being treated.
- No contamination from other dogs.
- No chance of your dog being drugged without your knowledge.
- No rough handling behind closed doors.
- No stress from loud salons or unfamiliar animals.
- Your dog stays in the place they feel safest — home.
Your dog trusts you more than anyone. Grooming them yourself honors that trust.
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