If you’re here because you’re trying to make one practical decision after losing your West Highland White Terrier, I’m so sorry. This guide keeps urn sizing simple and steady—so you can choose the right capacity without second-guessing it.
Quick answer
- Sizing rule: plan for about 1 cubic inch per pound of body weight.
- Typical adult West Highland White Terrier (Westie) weight: about 15–20 lb.
- Minimum capacity: about 15–20 cubic inches.
- Comfort range (roomier fit): about 18–24 cubic inches (adds ~20%).
- Most Westies fit best in a Small urn (under 25 cu in). If your comfort estimate approaches 25 cu in, Medium can be the calmer choice.
Start shopping here: Pet Urns for Dogs. Most Westie families shop in: Small Pet Urns (under 25 cu in). If you want extra breathing room, compare: Medium Pet Urns (25–60 cu in).
The sizing rule (1 cubic inch per lb) and why we still size up
Urn capacity is measured in cubic inches. A practical starting point is one cubic inch of urn capacity for every pound of your dog’s weight. Many families choose more than the minimum because it helps the inner bag settle more easily, makes closure feel calmer, and gives breathing room if weight is an estimate (or if you’re including a small memento).
If you’d like to double-check your number, use the Pet Urn Size Calculator and compare it with the Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Urn Size.
Westie weight to urn capacity (cubic inches)
If you have a recent vet record, use that number. If not, use your best estimate and lean toward the comfort range for an easier fit.
| Your Westie’s weight | Minimum capacity (1:1) | Comfort capacity (add ~20%) | Usually a good fit in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 lb | 15 cu in | 18 cu in | Small |
| 18 lb | 18 cu in | 22 cu in | Small |
| 20 lb (upper end) | 20 cu in | 24 cu in | Small (choose a listed capacity that meets your comfort target) |
| 21–25 lb (larger / mix / overweight) | 21–25 cu in | 25–30 cu in | Small (higher-capacity) or Medium (calmer fit) |
Which Funeral.com size category fits most West Highland White Terriers?
Most Westies fit best in a Small pet urn (under 25 cubic inches). For a small breed, many Small urns have more capacity than you strictly need, which is completely fine—and often makes placement and closure easier. The key is to shop by the urn’s listed capacity and choose one that meets or exceeds your comfort target.
- Shop Small Pet Urns (under 25 cu in)
- Shop Medium Pet Urns (25–60 cu in) (if your comfort target is near or above 25 cu in)
- Browse all Dog Urns
Size up if… (a simple rule that prevents a tight fit)
Size up if your dog’s weight is an estimate, your dog is a mix, your dog is big-framed or very muscular, you want room for mementos (tag, note, fur clipping), or you want the easiest closure with the inner bag. If you’re choosing between two capacities, the larger option is usually the calmer choice because it avoids a tight fit.
Sharing plan options (keepsakes and jewelry)
If more than one person wants a portion of ashes, a gentle plan is one primary urn plus keepsakes (or jewelry) so you don’t have to reopen the main urn repeatedly. For small dogs, keepsakes can also be meaningful even if you’re not splitting evenly.
Helpful tools to confirm your choice
FAQ
What size urn do I need for a West Highland White Terrier?
Most Westies weigh around 15–20 lb, so a typical minimum range is 15–20 cubic inches. For a calmer fit, many families choose about 18–24 cubic inches (adding ~20%).
Is a Small urn big enough for a Westie?
Yes. Most West Highland White Terriers fit comfortably in a Small urn (under 25 cu in). Choose a listed capacity that meets or exceeds your comfort target so closure doesn’t feel tight.
What size urn do I need for a 15 lb Westie?
Start with 15 cubic inches minimum. For comfort, aim for about 18 cubic inches. A Small urn is typically the best match.
What size urn do I need for a 20 lb Westie?
Start with 20 cubic inches minimum. For a roomier fit, aim for about 24 cubic inches. A Small urn still works well—just choose a listed capacity that meets your comfort target.
When should I choose Medium instead of Small for a Westie?
Consider Medium if your dog was larger than expected, weight is an estimate, you’re including mementos, or your comfort estimate approaches 25 cubic inches. Medium can be the calmer choice if you want extra breathing room.
How much extra capacity should I add beyond the minimum?
Many families add about 15–20% for comfort. This helps the inner bag settle more easily and reduces the chance of a tight fit.
Can I include a collar tag, note, or small mementos in the urn?
Often, yes—just plan for it. If you want room for mementos, aim for your comfort target (or size up) so the fit doesn’t feel tight.
Can I split my Westie’s ashes between a main urn and keepsakes?
Yes. Many families choose one primary urn plus keepsake urns or cremation jewelry for sharing. Keepsakes can also reduce how often you need to reopen the main urn.
How can I double-check my sizing before ordering?
Use the Pet Urn Size Calculator for a quick estimate, then choose an urn whose listed capacity meets or exceeds your comfort target. You can also compare with the Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Urn Size.
