Our Puppy Adoption Process

A Thoughtful Journey From Our Home to Yours
At Wild Wild Westies, our process isn’t just about adopting a puppy—it’s about building lifelong relationships between families and dogs that were raised right. We’ve developed a proven, step-by-step process that ensures every Westie puppy is healthy, socialized, and ready for their new home by the time you meet them.
Whether you're local to Abbeville, SC or across the country, our process is designed to be personal, transparent, and stress-free—from first contact to final cuddle.
Step 1: Learn About the Breed
West Highland White Terriers are known for their intelligence, energy, and affectionate nature. But every breed has its quirks! Before reaching out, we recommend reading through our FAQs and getting to know the Westie personality.
Westies are:
- Loyal and intelligent
- Non-shedding (great for allergies)
- Adaptable to small and large spaces
- Great with children and other pets
- Independent and spunky (sometimes too smart for their own good!)
We’re happy to talk through any questions to help you decide if a Westie is the right fit for your home.
Step 2: Submit Your Deposit
Once you’re ready to reserve a puppy, the first step is submitting your deposit.
Download Our Deposit Form:
This secures your spot on our reservation list for an upcoming litter. Puppies are reserved in the order deposits are received. After your form is submitted, we’ll confirm your position and litter availability.
Note: We don't ship puppies cargo but instead we do have a wonderful puppy nanny service who transports your baby on her lap to your closest international airport anywhere in the US. We can meet you at GSP (Greenville / Spartanburg International Airport) if you fly from a distance.
Step 3: Litter Updates Begin
Once the puppies are born, the fun begins! You’ll receive:
- A birth announcement
- Litter details (gender breakdown, parents, expected go-home date)
- Weekly baby pictures and updates starting at 3–4 weeks old
Tamara personally tracks growth milestones, temperament development, and socialization for each puppy. You’ll watch your pup grow up before they even arrive home.
Step 4: Early Development & Socialization
We raise our puppies on our 15-acre fenced property, giving them a natural environment to explore and thrive.
Each day includes:
- Outdoor play and field time
- Introduction to the adult “pack”
- Sounds of daily life (TV, vacuum, etc.)
- Handling and affection from day one
- Vet-guided nutrition, vitamins, and vaccinations
- Early potty pad and crate exposure
- Doggie door exposure by the time they leave- almost housetrained
We work hard to ensure your puppy arrives confident, curious, and ready to bond with you.
Step 5: Choosing Your Puppy
At around 6–7 weeks, we begin personality assessments. Based on your preferences (gender, energy level, etc.), Tamara will help you select the best puppy from your reserved litter.
We match based on:
- Temperament
- Family lifestyle and activity level
- Household dynamics (kids, other pets, etc.)
This ensures a smoother transition and better lifelong fit.
Step 6: Go-Home Day (8 Weeks)
At 8 weeks of age, your puppy is ready for their new home! You’ll receive:
- AKC registration papers
- Vaccination and deworming records
- Health guarantee
- Toy with mom’s scent
- Starter tips for feeding and training
- A puppy ready to give kisses (and maybe chew a shoe or two)
- Pickups are scheduled in advance, or you can arrange for our puppy nanny to safely deliver your puppy directly to you.
Step 7: Ongoing Support
We don’t disappear after pickup day. Tamara remains available to all adoptive families for follow-up questions, transition tips, and long-term support.
“We stay in touch with many of our families for years. We love getting photos, updates, and holiday cards!”
Why Families Trust Wild Wild Westies
Tamara’s personal touch, transparent process, and expert-level care have earned her the trust of families all over the country. From Florida to Oregon, clients rave about the experience and the dogs themselves.
-Drew Melton, Louisville, KY
I gave you a sterling review as a breeder to the lady who asked. And I have friends who may be calling if they haven’t already. Manolo is thriving! He just gets more beautiful everyday! That’s the truth! I love him so much! We are members of Westies International and I mean he gets like 2K likes! Everyone goes nuts for him! I couldn’t be happier.
-SHERRY B., WHITE, GA
Sadie is a year old now. She’s everything I dreamed of. We love her so much. Our lab and her are best pals. Thank you!! ----
- Nicole Shedler, Charleston, SC
Hi Tamara,
Can you believe it’s been a year since we’ve had Brooklyn! We just love her and just wanted to thank you again for giving us such a beautiful healthy girl! She’s a fantastic dog and I would get another dog from you in a heartbeat! She’s wonderful with everyone and with other dogs, too! She’s a fabulous traveler and a wonderful companion and my very best friend…..don’t tell my other friends or my husband!! :)
And I am for sure her person! :)

Start the Process Today
Think you're ready for a Wild Wild Westie of your own? Download our deposit form and take the first step toward a lifetime of Westie love.
