"Houdini" could be considered a suitable name for a Westie, if you consider the escape artistry of the breed. Westies can dig under fences, climb over barriers, and squeeze through small holes or openings. A fence that stands a chance of confining a Westie should be have its bottom buried in the ground and its mesh tight. Chain link fences with concrete-reinforced poles work well. Electronic fences are not for Westie's. In their zeal to hunt, a Westie will follow a rabbit into the road, even if it means a nasty shock on the way.

Even if you have a good, stout fence, take care about what is near it. A determined Westie can scale a pile of boxes or stones to get over a fence when properly motivated.