Important Disclaimer
The information provided here is for general pet health education only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
- Species & breed
- Dog · West Highland White Terrier
- Age
- 10 months old
- Sex
- Female
- Color
- White
It sounds like you're right in the thick of puppyhood with your little Westie! Both of these are super common challenges at 7 months, and the good news is that with consistency, most pups really do get there.
Working on the biting (mouthing)
At 7 months, a lot of puppies are still figuring out how to use their mouths appropriately. This is sometimes called "bite inhibition" — basically, learning how hard is too hard, and that human skin is off-limits.
A few things that tend to help:
- Redirect immediately. The moment teeth touch skin, calmly say "ouch" or "no" and swap your hand for a chew toy. You're teaching her what she can bite, not just what she can't.
- Time-outs work. If redirecting doesn't work, briefly remove your attention — stand up, turn away, or step out of the room for 30–60 seconds. Puppies hate losing their playmate.
- Keep sessions short. Overtired or overstimulated puppies bite more. Watch for signs she's getting wound up and end play before it escalates.
- Be consistent across everyone in the household. If one person allows mouthing and another doesn't, it confuses her.
Potty training consistency
At 7 months she's getting to the age where she can hold it longer, but accidents still happen — especially with a terrier who has a mind of her own!
- Stick to a schedule. Take her out first thing in the morning, after every meal, after naps, after play, and right before bed. Predictability is everything.
- Pick a spot. Using the same area outside helps her associate that location with going to the bathroom.
- Praise the moment she finishes — not after she comes back inside. Timing matters a lot.
- Accidents inside = no reaction. Just clean it up thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner (this removes the scent so she's less likely to go there again). Scolding after the fact doesn't connect for dogs.
- Supervise closely indoors. If you can't watch her, a crate or a small gated area can prevent accidents and help her learn to "hold it."
A note on Westies specifically
West Highland White Terriers are smart, spirited, and a little stubborn — which means training works, but it works best when it's fun and reward-based. Short, upbeat sessions beat long, repetitive ones every time.
When to see your vet:
For these specific training questions, a vet visit isn't urgent. However, if you notice:
- Biting that seems fearful or aggressive rather than playful
- Accidents that include blood, unusual color, straining, or a sudden increase in accidents after things were going well (which can signal a urinary issue)
…then it's worth a call to your vet. A certified dog trainer or puppy class can also be a fantastic resource for both of these challenges!
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