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Compare Havanese and West Highland White Terrier side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level

Playfulness

Intelligence

Trainability

Protectiveness

Sociability

Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly

Yes

Good with kids

Yes

Good for first-time owners

Yes

Shedding

Noise level

Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span

12–15 years

12–16 years

Weight

4.5–8.1 kg

6.5–8.5 kg

Height

23–30 cm

28–30 cm

Origin

Cuba

Scotland

Grooming effort

Nutrition sensitivity

Health risk

Heat tolerance

Cold tolerance

The Havanese and the West Highland White Terrier (Westie) are both charming breeds with distinct characteristics. The Havanese, originating from Cuba, is known for its sociable nature and adaptability to apartment living. With a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, it is slightly smaller and lighter than the Westie, which hails from Scotland and has a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. The Westie is more energetic and playful, requiring more exercise than the Havanese. While both breeds are good with kids and first-time owners, their trainability and protectiveness differ slightly. The Havanese excels in sociability, while the Westie has a higher level of protectiveness, making each breed suited for different lifestyles and preferences.

Havanese — Advantages

- Highly sociable and friendly
- Good for first-time owners
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Good with children
- Moderate grooming needs

Disadvantages

- Lower energy level compared to Westie
- Can struggle with being left alone
- Less protective than Westie

West Highland White Terrier — Advantages

- Higher energy level, suitable for active owners
- More protective nature
- Good with children
- Also good for first-time owners
- Adaptable to apartment living