Westies love to hunt. Their prey includes anything small that moves, including birds, mice, squirrels, chipmunks, frogs, skunks, rabbits, foxes and badgers. Females are the fiercest of the hunters, starting at a very early age.

The first time your darling little Westie girl brings home a mangled baby rabbit, you may be a little more than disconcerted. It is important to remember that the dog that has successfully hunted does not think he has done something immoral. S/he believes that s/he has done an excellent job. Whether you mean it or not, the dog should be praised before being asked to surrender the prey.

There is not much you can do about the penchant to hunt. Teaching the dog the "Leave it" command will, at least, help you dispose of the carcass. Girls usually slow down in their desire to hunt after first heat. A boy's keen interest may be somewhat diminished after being altered.