Quick Answer:
Westie grooming costs $50-$85 every 6-8 weeks. Their wiry white double coat requires either hand-stripping (traditional) or clipping. Regular grooming keeps their distinctive white coat clean and healthy.
West Highland White Terrier Grooming Costs
Here's what to expect for professional West Highland White Terrier grooming based on size and service type:
| Size | Weight | Basic Groom | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Highland White Terrier | 15-20 lbs | $50-$65 | $65-$85 |
Annual grooming costs: $400-$680 (based on grooming every 6-8 weeks).
For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.
West Highland White Terrier Coat Type & Care
West Highland White Terriers have a harsh, straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. The wiry texture helps repel dirt. Hand-stripping maintains proper texture; clipping softens the coat over time.
| Coat Type | Wiry |
| Shedding | Low (minimal shedding) |
| Grooming Frequency | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Brushing | 2-3 times weekly |
| Grooming Difficulty | Medium |
Popular West Highland White Terrier Haircuts
Here are the most popular grooming styles for West Highland White Terriers:
Pet Trim
Best for: Most Westie owners
Clipped body with shaped head and furnishings.
Maintenance: Medium - regular brushing
Hand-Stripped
Best for: Show dogs, coat texture preservation
Dead coat removed by hand.
Maintenance: Requires specialized groomer
Puppy Cut
Best for: Easy maintenance
Even length all over.
Maintenance: Low - easier maintenance
West Highland White Terrier Grooming Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your West Highland White Terrier looking and feeling their best:
- Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
- Brushing: 2-3 times weekly
- Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks
- Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
Puppy Grooming
Start handling early. Westie puppies should get used to grooming before adult coat comes in.
Senior Dog Grooming
Older Westies may have skin sensitivities. Gentle handling important.
Find a West Highland White Terrier-experienced groomer
Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with West Highland White Terriers and similar breeds.
Find Groomers Near MeCommon West Highland White Terrier Grooming Problems
Coat Staining
White coat shows tear stains and dirt easily.
Prevention: Regular bathing, face cleaning, whitening treatments.
Skin Issues
Westies can be prone to skin allergies.
Prevention: Use gentle products. Work with vet on allergies.
Ear Problems
Small, erect ears can still have issues.
Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning.
At-Home West Highland White Terrier Grooming
Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your West Highland White Terrier's coat at home.
Essential Tools
- Slicker brush
- Metal comb
- Stripping knife (if hand-stripping)
- Eye wipes
- Whitening shampoo
Grooming Tips
- Brush 2-3 times weekly
- Keep face clean to prevent staining
- Use whitening products for bright coat
- Check ears weekly
Finding a West Highland White Terrier-Experienced Groomer
Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your West Highland White Terrier:
- Ask about hand-stripping availability
- Look for terrier breed experience
- Check their work on white-coated dogs
- Ensure they know breed-specific styling
For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Westie grooming cost?▼
$50-$85 per session.
Should I hand-strip or clip my Westie?▼
Clipping is easier for pets. Hand-stripping maintains proper coat texture but is more expensive.
How often should a Westie be groomed?▼
Every 6-8 weeks professionally.
How do I keep my Westie white?▼
Regular bathing with whitening shampoo, face cleaning, and keeping coat clean.
Do Westies shed?▼
Minimally. Their wiry coat doesn't shed much.
Are Westies hypoallergenic?▼
They're low-shedding but not truly hypoallergenic.
The Bottom Line
West Highland White Terrier grooming requires professional appointments every 6-8 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your West Highland White Terrier looking and feeling their best.
Find a groomer experienced with West Highland White Terriers, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your West Highland White Terrier will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.
Related Breed Guides
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