How much does a West Highland White Terrier puppy cost?

Westie puppies don’t come cheap because responsible breeding is neither easy nor inexpensive. These little white firecrackers are prone to serious genetic conditions like craniomandibular osteopathy—where the jawbone overgrows in puppies—and pulmonary fibrosis, a fatal lung disease. That means ethical breeders must invest thousands in health testing, including X-rays and DNA panels, to avoid passing on these issues. You’re not just paying for the puppy; you’re covering the cost of those clean health clearances, stud fees from tested lines, and often smaller litter sizes typical in the terrier group. At 15 to 20 pounds, they’re compact, but their popularity rank at 42 means demand stays steady, especially since they’re hypoallergenic and endlessly photogenic. That demand lets reputable breeders justify the $2500 average. But if you see a Westie for $800, run. That price likely means zero health testing, possible puppy mill origins, or an upcoming vet bill from untreated atopic dermatitis or luxating patellas. You’re not saving money—you’re buying future heartache. A well-bred Westie might cost more upfront, but it’s insurance against six months of steroid treatments or emergency jaw surgery. Good breeders price accordingly because they’ve seen the worst of it.