How to Train a West Highland White Terrier to Come When Called
West Highland White Terriers are confident, spirited dogs bred to hunt independently, which means they naturally have a strong prey drive and a stubborn streak that can make recall training challenging. However, a reliable "come" command is essential for this breed's safety—their confident nature and barking tendency can lead them into trouble if they bolt after a squirrel or wander off. The good news is that Westies are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement when properly motivated. This guide breaks down recall training into manageable steps tailored to your Westie's independent temperament. With consistency, high-value rewards, and patience, you'll build a recall that's strong enough to override their natural hunting instincts and keep your spirited little terrier safe in any situation.
Step-by-step
- 1
Establish a High-Value Reward System
West Highland White Terriers are food-motivated but can be picky—find what truly excites your dog, whether it's small pieces of chicken, cheese, or special training treats. Reserve this reward exclusively for recall training so it remains special and motivating, especially when competing against outdoor distractions and prey drive triggers.
- 2
Start Indoors in a Low-Distraction Environment
Begin recall training inside your home where your Westie can focus solely on you without the interference of outdoor smells, other animals, or barking triggers. Practice short, 5-minute sessions several times daily—this breed's 3/5 trainability means frequent, brief sessions work better than long ones.
- 3
Use an Upbeat, Distinct Recall Cue
Choose a specific word or phrase (e.g., "come" or "here") and pair it with an excited, high-pitched tone that cuts through your Westie's independent streak. Practice the cue consistently, immediately reward when they respond, and avoid using it for anything negative like nail trimming or bath time.
- 4
Gradually Introduce Mild Distractions
Once your dog reliably comes indoors, practice in slightly more stimulating environments—a quiet backyard, then busier outdoor spaces. Increase difficulty slowly; remember that Westies have moderate prey drive and hunting instincts, so expect occasional setbacks when they catch an interesting scent.
- 5
Practice Recall During Your Daily Exercise Routine
Integrate recall training into your Westie's recommended 45 minutes of daily exercise rather than treating it as separate work. Call them during walks or playtime, reward immediately, and keep sessions fun and unpredictable so they stay engaged and see you as the best reward.
- 6
Build Reliability with Variable Reinforcement
Once recall is established, occasionally reward with praise or play instead of always giving treats, using a random reward schedule. This keeps your confident Westie mentally engaged and less likely to dismiss the command if they predict no reward—especially important for a breed with a natural stubborn streak.
Pro tips
- Never chase your Westie if they don't come—it becomes a game to their spirited mind. Instead, run away in the opposite direction or crouch down to trigger their prey drive and curiosity, then reward heavily when they reach you.
- Use your Westie's barking tendency to your advantage: call them indoors before they bark excessively, reward, and create a pattern where coming to you prevents frustration—this works with their natural temperament rather than against it.
- Invest in a long training line (15–30 feet) for outdoor practice. This safety tool lets them explore while preventing bolting, so you can reward recall success without relying solely on their still-developing obedience.
Frequently asked questions
My Westie ignores me when they spot squirrels outdoors. How do I overcome their prey drive?+
Prey drive is hardwired in terriers, so you won't eliminate it—instead, make yourself more rewarding than the chase. Practice recall with ultra-high-value treats outdoors, and always reward instantly. On walks, use a long line initially so they can't bolt, and reward generously when they choose to disengage from prey and respond to you.
How often should I train my Westie, and for how long?+
Train 3–5 times daily in short 5-minute bursts rather than one long session. Westies have moderate energy and trainability (3/5), so frequent, bite-sized training prevents boredom and stubbornness while fitting naturally into your day alongside their recommended 45 minutes of exercise.
My Westie came reliably for a week, then stopped. Why?+
Your Westie may be testing boundaries—this breed's confident, spirited temperament means they reassess rules regularly. Stay consistent, never skip training sessions, and refresh rewards periodically so they stay novel. Avoid repeating the command; say it once, wait briefly, then gently guide them if needed.
Should I use a whistle or clicker for recall training?+
Both can work, but a consistent vocal cue paired with your excited tone is usually most effective for Westies because they're sensitive to your energy. If using a whistle, introduce it gradually indoors first so it doesn't startle them, and pair it immediately with rewards.