The Westiepoo, the result of pairing a West Highland White Terrier and a Poodle, is an intelligent, active, and loving mixed-breed dog. Which also goes by the name Westiedoodle or Wee-Poo. Moreover, these Westiepoo puppies are also great to adopt since they are easy to train and love spending time with their humans. Furthermore, they are safe to be with people with allergies because they are 100% hypoallergenic dog breed.
Pet owners are fond of Westiepoos because of its round-button-like eyes, which makes them look more adorable. They are also suitable in any living environment, even apartments, as long as they receive enough affection and care. Their intelligence makes them easier to train, thus making them a good companion for older kids.
History
| Year of Origin | 1970 |
|---|---|
| Place of Origin | United States |
These cute pups’ parents are the West Highland White Terrier and the Poodle. Experts believe that this Westie Poodle mix, like most Poodle hybrids, might have originated from the United States during the 1970s. In addition, they are also often referred to as a designer dog breed, but unfortunately, these crossbreeds also end up in shelters. This breed is one of the latest mixed-breed dogs around, so there might be little to no accurate information about its history. So, it would be best to focus on its parents’ history.
West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terrier dogs are from Scotland, where they hunt different kinds of small vermin-like mice. They are usually mistaken as a fox because of their white coat. Rumour has it that back in the 17th century, James I of Argyllshire gave a Westie to the king of France. Westiepoo got their high prey drive from their Westie parents.
Poodle
The national dog of France is Poodle but despite that, this breed originated in Germany. People call them the Caniche or “duck dog” because they are duck hunters. The first Miniature or Toy Poodle was first bred in the United States in the early 20th century. Moreover, there are three Poodle sizes – the toy, the standard, and the scaled-down miniature; however, a Westie is more likely paired with a toy or miniature poodle. Westiepoo puppies might have gotten their hypoallergenic low-shedding coat from their Poodle parent.
Popularity
While a Westiepoo seems to be a famous designer dog breed, the American Kennel Club and other major canine organizations do not recognize it. Fortunately, there are other smaller clubs that seem to accept this Westie Poodle mix under its official name and alternative name, Wee-Poo, namely:
- Dog Registry of America
- International Designer Canine Registry
- Designer Dogs Kennel Club
- Designer Breed Registry
Appearance
| Size | small |
|---|---|
| Male Height | 25–40 cm / 10–16 in |
| Male Weight | 9–13 kg / 20–29 lbs |
| Female Height | 25–40 cm / 10–16 in |
| Female Weight | 8–12 kg / 18–26 lbs |
Westiepoo size varies, ranging from small to medium. The adults can weigh around 20 to 30 lbs and can grow around 11 to 17 inches. They have short to medium-length soft, and wavy hair, with the colour varying from white or cream with shades of brown, black, or tan. People love this Westie-Poodle mix for looking so cute, like teddy bears. Also, they are easy to maintain since they don’t shed much.
Head
Westiepoo puppies have rounded faces with round or oval-shaped brown eyes that are endearing. Mostly have floppy ears or ears that hang to the side of their faces. In addition, they have a dark, relatively large, rounded nose that complements their eyes well. Speaking to them is also adorable because they have alert facial expressions and tend to lean their heads to the side.
Body
Your Westie Poodle mix can weigh between 20 to 30 pounds, depending on the parents, but Toy Westiepoos Depending on the parents, your Westie Poodle mix can weigh between 20 to 30 pounds, but Toy Westiepoos are more lightweight. As for their height, the average can be around 11 to 17 inches tall. This breed size varies from small to medium, making them look like teddy bears. They inherit their straight, level backbone from their parents. Moreover, they may be square-shaped like their Poodle parent or rectangular-shaped like their Westie parent. What’s cuter about them is their tails, which are highly placed and slightly curved.
Coat and Colors
| Coat Length | medium |
|---|---|
| Coat Colors | white, gray, silver |
| Coat Patterns | solid |
These mixed-breed pups have medium to long fur. These Westiepoo puppies may have a soft and wavy coat, which they got from the Poodle parent, or a rough and wiry coat which they may inherit from their Westie parent, or it could also be a combination. Most of them have white, but in rare circumstances, some have cream, fawn, apricot, or black fur. Still and all, they are low-maintenance pets since they are unlikely to shed and are hypoallergenic.
Breed Standards
The links below will redirect you to official breed standards for West Highland White Terrier and Poodle breeds.
- American Kennel Club Official Standard of the West Highland White Terrier
- American Kennel Club Official Standard of the Poodle
- Canadian Kennel Club Official Standard of the West Highland White Terrier
- Canadian Kennel Club Official Standard of the Poodle
- Federation Cynologique Internationale Official Standard for West Highland White Terrier
- Federation Cynologique Internationale Official Standard for Poodle
- United Kennel Club Official Standard for West Highland White Terrier
- United Kennel Club Official Standard for Poodle
Temperament
These Westiepoo Puppies are loving and caring especially to their family members. Just like their parents, these pups are both people-oriented and independent. They are an active type of dog, so it is essential to keep them well-exercised to prevent them from being destructive. This hybrid requires a lot of attention since they like being playful with humans, so make sure to devote your attention to them. Thankfully, they are adorable so you will never get tired of them. Moreover, Westiepoos are playful towards other dogs, but they are not that friendly towards other pets such as cats, or other small animals due to their prey drive.
Since they are intelligent, expect that you can easily train them. Are they food motivated? These Westie Poodle mixes can get stubborn, but they tend to learn quickly. Furthermore, they get very attached to their family members so it would be best to never leave them alone for a long period of time. So, if you are not always home, it’s better to stay away from getting a Westiepoo.
With Strangers
This hybrid is cautious around strangers, making them an ideal watchdog. However, if you are eyeing to adopt a guard dog, a Westiepoo is not a choice. In addition, it may take time for it to warm up to new people entering their lives. Your pet might bark for a couple of minutes every time a new face arrives. What’s more loving about them is that they will alert their family members to potential intruders.
With Other Pets
This Westie Poodle mix is typically not aggressive, so it blends very well with other pets. It loves having a playmate! However, this hybrid still has a high prey drive, so it would be best to watch them, especially if other small animals are in your household. In addition, note that it is also not that friendly to cats.
Intelligence and Trainability
| Appartment Living | 5/5 |
|---|---|
| Novice Owners | 4/5 |
| Sensitivity | 3/5 |
| Being Alone | 2/5 |
| Cold Weather | 2/5 |
| Hot Weather | 3/5 |
| Territorial | 4/5 |
| Aggressiveness | 2/5 |
| Affectionate | 5/5 |
| Kid Friendliness | 5/5 |
| Dog Friendliness | 3/5 |
| Cat Friendliness | 2/5 |
| Stranger Friendliness | 5/5 |
| Cost To Keep | 5/5 |
| Grooming Needs | 5/5 |
| Coat Shedding | 1/5 |
| Drooling | 2/5 |
| Stinkiness | 2/5 |
| Hypoallergenic | 4/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 |
| Intelligence | 3/5 |
| Prey Drive | 1/5 |
| Loudness | 3/5 |
| Mouthiness | 3/5 |
| Growling | 2/5 |
| Howling | 1/5 |
| Wonderlust | 1/5 |
| Weight Gain | 1/5 |
| Energy Level | 1/5 |
| Activity Level | 1/5 |
| Playfulness | 3/5 |
| Social Needs | 3/5 |
| Service Dog | 1/5 |
|---|---|
| Therapy Dog | 1/5 |
| Guard Dog | 1/5 |
| Working Dog | 1/5 |
| Search And Rescue Dog | 1/5 |
| Herding Dog | 1/5 |
| Sledding Dog | 1/5 |
| Farm Dog | 1/5 |
| Hunting Dog | 1/5 |
| Military Dog | 1/5 |
| Police Dog | 1/5 |
| Detection Dog | 1/5 |
| Bio Detection Dog | 1/5 |
Westiepoos are clever, which makes them easy to train. They can also pick up and memorize commands faster than other breeds; however, owners must have prior dog experience as they can get stubborn. A friendly approach would be the best way to train this hybrid since they get uninterested in harsh training techniques. Food treats and affection are necessary!
Experts believe that early socialization and obedience training are the keys to bringing out the best in this mixed breed. At the same time, crate training is the best solution since house training can be a struggle. Establishing yourself as their pack leader during their first months in a new home is also essential. Nonetheless, Westiepoos respond well to training as they are intelligent; however, you must follow consistency, patience, and fairness.
Health
| Life Expectancy | 12–15 years |
|---|
Just like its Poodle parent, a Westiepoo also has an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. This hybrid is sure healthy; however, owners must still look to its lineage for potential health issues that it may inherit from its parental breeds. It is also essential to identify and address any health problem as early as possible to avoid worst-case scenarios.
Here are some of the more common health complications your Weepoo may suffer from.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a brain disorder distinguished by recurrent episodes of seizure. The exact cause of this health problem is unknown, but it could be hereditary. It may also be because of liver disease, kidney failure, brain tumors, brain trauma, or toxins. It rarely affects female dogs than male dogs. Your dog’s first seizure would more likely occur between one to five years of age. For the treatment, vets prefer anti-seizure medications. However, the owner must continue using this treatment because once stopped; it may trigger seizures.
Muscle Atrophy
Atrophy is a muscle tissue loss that occurs in the legs, specifically the hind legs, but it is also possible to appear in other body parts. It is noticeable if it results from an injury or surgery; however, it also develops slowly without the owners noticing it. This condition could also be because of the natural aging process, reduced activity, joint injuries or arthritis, illness, and extended crate rest. Meanwhile, the treatment depends on the cause, but exercise and adequate nutrition can help. Still, it would be best to book a consultation with your vet.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a skeletal condition that happens when a hip joint develops abnormally. Although this condition primarily affects larger breed dogs, your Westiepoo is not guaranteed safe from it because of its active temperament. Hip dysplasia also causes discomforts like pain, stiffness, and an irregular gait. There is no product for its prevention; however, medications can be helpful against mild cases. On the other hand, surgery is the only way to cure severe cases or when soreness or limping occurs.
Tooth Loss
Losing baby teeth is expected in a dog’s life; however, losing adult teeth can signify a gum disease. In addition, tooth loss may also result from trauma, and swelling, pain, or bleeding around the tooth are the early symptoms. However, signs will be different if the reason is gum disease – gum swelling and discoloration. Professional treatment for this includes the removal of plaque, regular checkups, and tooth cleaning. On the other hand, a preventative solution is by taking care of your dog’s teeth, like brushing them daily.
Care
If you are looking for a low-maintenance pet, a Westiepoo is good for you. They can adjust to any living environment; you won’t worry about their grooming since they are a low-shedding breed. However, they must acquire enough affection and attention from you. Moreover, they are also outgoing and active, so having playtime or walks would be best.
Feeding
| Daily Food Consumption | 500–500 grams |
|---|
Get ready for some trial and error when you feed a Westiepoo as it can get picky about food. Smaller meals for Westiepoo puppies, and three to four times of it daily. Meanwhile, for an adult Weepoo, 400 grams of dry dog food daily would do. They also have various food choices – raw, dry, wet, or homemade. What you want to feed your dog must not be solely based on your preferences; you must also consider factors like time restraints and digestion. No matter how good a diet guide from a dog food manufacturer is, it would still be best to talk to a vet about their diet. Make sure that your pet receives an adequate amount of nutrients.
Grooming
If you are looking for a low-shedding breed, this Westie Poodle mix can be your best choice. They have low to moderate needs for grooming, as long as you brush their coats at least two to three times per week. Their hair around their eyes and ears may require regular trimming and cleaning once a week. However, owners should bathe them only when necessary, and it would also be best to use mild dog shampoo. Brushing teeth at least three times a week and clipping long nails are also a must. Still, grooming depends on their coat type and owner preference.
Exercising
A Westiepoo may be a low-maintenance, but it is a relatively active type of dog, which means it requires regular exercise daily. They tend to have a lot of energy, so a 15-minute walk per day or full play time out can do. However, a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes of activity would help them better. Keeping them active is necessary for their physical and mental well-being, as they can get destructive and unhappy if not.
Ownership
Westiepoo puppies may not do great with first-time fur parents; however, keep in mind that they are stubborn and require too much attention. And this hybrid can adjust to any living environment as long as you meet their physical and mental being needs. You would enjoy being with this puppy since they are outgoing, intelligent, and loving.
Prices
| Registered | $1500–3000 |
|---|---|
| Unregistered | $800–2000 |
The price differs depending on different factors like breeder’s reputation and location, litter size, breed popularity, training, breed lines, socialization efforts, and more. But, you can get Westiepoo puppies around $250 to $800 without papers. However, a premium puppy with papers, breeding rights, and quality would likely cost around $1800 to $4800. Low-priced puppies can be very tempting, but it is still not recommended.
Buying
If you are planning to add a Westie Poodle mix to your family, getting one from a reputable breeder is much better. It guarantees a healthy and registered puppy. You might also consider these factors below when deciding to own one:
- Litter size
- Puppy’s lineage
- Health of both dog parents
- Reputation of the breeder
- Conditions of coats, eyes, ears, gums and other body parts
Breeding
| Litter Size | 3–7 puppies |
|---|
On average, Westiepoos have an average litter size ranging from three to seven puppies. The litter size may still vary depending on the size of the Poodle parent, which comes in two variations – the Miniature and the Toy. Therefore, your Westiepoo could also appear in two different sizes. Since this hybrid is considered first-generation due to its purebred parents, although the puppies came from the same litter, characteristics and behavioral traits may differ.
Westiepoo: FAQ
A Westiepoo is one of the most popular designer dogs because its dog parents, Westie and Poodle, are famous. However, a lot of people still want to know more about this cute hybrid, so here are some questions people usually ask.
Considering that both parents are small-sized, Westiepoos can be anything between 10 and 20 pounds in weight and 10 to 15 inches in height at full size. Expect that your puppy will reach its full-grown size around the 8 to 12 months mark. However, smaller pups tend to grow sooner than those puppies in a larger size.
There is a possibility that the dog’s full-grown size may differ because some puppies are naturally smaller or larger. Still, if you are worried about the size of your Westiepoo, you should seek the advice of your veterinarian.
Westiepoos are friendly, especially with children and dogs. They appreciate having a playmate. However, they may sometimes get short-tempered, so they are more suitable with older kids who know how to interact and when to stop without hurting them. Younger kids can be with them if there’s someone to look out for them. They are not very friendly towards other animals, especially small household animals and cats, because they inherited their hunting instincts from their Westie dog parents.
Westiepoos are social, loving, and loyal dogs around. They crave human companionship, and they love having a playmate. However, if you are the type of owner who works an 8-hour a day shift outside the home, a Westiepoo is not a great choice to adopt. Even though they are low-maintenance dogs, they do not adore being left alone for a long time. Still, if you want to get a Wee-Poo, hiring someone to be with them would be best.
A Westiepoo’s stubborn personality makes it unsuitable for novice owners. If you decide to adopt a Westiepoo as a first-time fur parent, remember that you have to commit to them. In addition, house training does not suit this dog. This hybrid can get very destructive if you cannot meet its needs.
A Westiepoo puppy costs around $250 to $800 without the papers. But for a registered Wee-poo puppy, you may get to spend an average of $1800 to $4800. The cost may vary depending on the breeder’s reputation and location, litter size, lineage, the health of both dog parents, and body parts conditions. Unregistered puppies can be tempting to adopt; however, a premium quality puppy is worth the price. All in all, if you don’t have the money, you can always adopt from shelters.
Your Westie Poodle mix is a clever and affectionate hybrid dog; however, there are still pros and cons to owning one. You would love to add them to your family tree because they are sociable and like spending time with the family. In addition, you won’t have to worry about grooming because they are low-shedding; they just need brushing once or twice a week.
Contrarily, keep in mind that they have a stubborn personality which makes housetraining a struggle. Also, they can’t be left alone, so a Westiepoo is not suitable for you if you are always out. Lastly, though they are very friendly, they can get aggressive and bark a lot towards strangers. All in all, a Westiepoo requires complete dedication.