The West Highland White Terrier, also known as the Westie, is a small and charming breed that is well-loved by many dog enthusiasts. One of the distinctive features of this breed is their ears, which can sometimes take longer to stand up compared to other puppies.
When you bring home your Westie puppy at 8 weeks old, you may notice that their ears are not yet standing up. This is completely normal and not a cause for concern. In fact, it is quite common for Westie puppies to have floppy ears initially.
However, if you would like your Westie’s ears to stand up, there are a few things you can do to help encourage their development. One simple technique is to gently massage the ears every time you pick up your puppy. This can help to stimulate the muscles in the ear and promote proper ear positioning.
Teething can also play a role in the drooping of your Westie’s ears. When puppies are teething, their bodies go through various changes, including the growth of new teeth. This can sometimes cause the ears to temporarily droop. Once the teething process is complete, the ears should regain their upright position.
It’s important to note that every Westie is unique, and some puppies may have ears that stand up naturally without any intervention. Others may take a bit longer to develop strong ear muscles and have their ears stand up permanently. Patience is key when it comes to the development of your Westie’s ears.
Aside from their ears, the Westie has other notable facial features. Their head is well proportioned to their body, with powerful jaws and a black nose and lips. Their medium-sized, piercing eyes are dark brown and express a sense of alertness. These eyes are framed by heavy eyebrows, which add to the Westie’s charming expression.
The Westie’s ears are small and erect, set wide apart near the top of the skull. Unlike some other breeds, such as the Yorkshire Terrier, the Westie’s ears are never cropped. This means that the natural shape and position of the ears are maintained, highlighting the breed’s unique appearance.
In some grooming styles, such as certain breed cuts, the Westie’s ears may have what is called “tipped ears.” This means that the top third of the ear is shaved, leaving sharply pointed ears that enhance the expression of the breed. However, this is purely a grooming preference and not a characteristic of the breed itself.
The development of a Westie’s ears can vary from puppy to puppy. While some may have ears that stand up naturally, others may require some gentle massage and patience to encourage proper positioning. Remember to consult with your vet if you have any concerns about your Westie’s ears or overall health.
Do All Westies Ears Stand Up?
Not all Westies have ears that stand up. While it is a common trait for West Highland White Terriers to have erect ears, it is not guaranteed for every individual puppy. Some Westie puppies may have ears that are initially floppy or droopy when they are younger. However, with time and proper care, most Westie puppies’ ears will eventually stand up.
It is important to note that the timeframe for when a Westie’s ears will stand up can vary. Some puppies may have their ears standing up by the time they are 8 weeks old, while others may take a bit longer. It is not uncommon for Westie puppies’ ears to go through a period of drooping when they are teething.
If you have a Westie puppy whose ears are not standing up by the time you collect them at 8 weeks old, there are a few things you can do to help encourage their ear development. One method is to gently massage the ears every time you pick up your puppy. This can help stimulate the muscles and cartilage in the ears, promoting proper growth and strengthening.
Additionally, providing a balanced diet and ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition can also contribute to healthy ear development. Good nutrition supports overall growth and development, including the muscles and cartilage in the ears.
It’s important to remember that every Westie is unique, and some may have ears that stand up naturally while others may require a bit more time and attention. If you have concerns about your Westie puppy’s ear development, it is always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian for guidance and reassurance.
Do Westies Have Cropped Ears?
Westies do not have cropped ears. The breed standard for West Highland White Terriers states that their ears should be small, erect, and set wide apart near the top of the skull. It explicitly mentions that their ears are never cropped.
Cropping is a surgical procedure where a dog’s ears are trimmed or reshaped for aesthetic purposes. However, this practice is not done on Westies. The natural appearance of their ears is an important characteristic of the breed.
By keeping their ears in their natural state, Westies maintain their unique and adorable look. This breed’s small and erect ears contribute to their overall appearance and help enhance their facial expressions.
The ears of Westies are not cropped. They are small, erect, and set wide apart near the top of the skull, as specified in the breed standard. This is a distinctive feature of the West Highland White Terrier.
What Type Of Ear Does The Westie Have?
The West Highland White Terrier, also known as the Westie, typically has what is known as “prick ears.” This means that their ears are naturally erect and pointed. The shape of their ears is an important characteristic of the breed and adds to their overall appearance. The Westie’s prick ears are believed to enhance their alert and confident expression. It is worth noting that the Westie’s ears are not typically tipped or shaved like some other breeds, such as the Yorkshire Terrier. The natural shape of the Westie’s ears is part of what makes them unique and easily recognizable.
Conclusion
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, is known for its small, erect ears that are set wide apart near the top of the skull. While some puppies may take longer for their ears to stand up, gentle massage can help encourage proper ear positioning. It is important to note that the Westie’s ears are never cropped and should remain in their natural state. Additionally, some breed cuts, such as the tipped ears, can enhance the expression of breeds like the Westie and Yorkshire Terrier. the Westie’s ears are a distinctive feature that adds to their unique and charming appearance.
