If you’re looking for a dog that is kind, loving, playful and intelligent, then a Westiepoo may be the perfect dog for you. Their popularity continues to grow since they make great family dogs. Here are some of the top questions and answers about this breed:
Breed Breakdown:
-
What are the parent breeds: Miniature Poodle or Toy Poodle + West Highland White Terrier
-
Do Westiepoos shed? Yes, though minimal compared to other breeds
-
How big do Westiepoos get? 20-30 pounds
-
How much is a Westiepoo? $250-1000
-
How long do Westiepoos live? 13-15 years
-
Temperament? Friendly, loving, intelligent, outgoing
Do Westiepoos Shed?
Because a Westiepoo is a mixed breed dog comprised of a poodle and a West Highland White Terrier (a breed that sheds), they do shed. However, they don’t shed nearly as much as purebred West Highland White Terriers, and compared to other dog breeds, they don’t shed as much.
Because there are many types of Westiepoos (f1 Westiepoos, f1b Westiepoos, f2 Westiepoos, etc.), your dog will shed according to the type of doodle you own. More specifically, it depends on the percentage of poodle vs. West Highland White Terrier in your dog. If your dog is more poodle, it won’t shed as much as if it was a higher percentage of West Highland White Terrier.
These doodles come in 3 different coat types: straight, curly or wavy. A straight coat Westiepoo has very long, delicate hair, while a curly coat Westiepoo may have shorter hair that is harder to groom and brush. If both parents end up sharing a blend of their coat characteristics, then you may end up with a doodle that has wavy hair. Ultimately, these features are determined by genetics.
Are Westiepoos Hypoallergenic?
Truth be told, no breed is ever truly 100% hypoallergenic. All dogs have fur that can shed, making it a potential issue for people who have allergies. Despite being completely hypoallergenic, Weimardoodles are an allergy-friendly dog breed.
This is due to the incorporation of poodles into the breed mix. Pet dander, saliva, and urine are the three elements that produce allergic reactions. Luckily, poodles have only a single coat with low dander, and their fur is non-shedding. Therefore, if your doodle is more poodle than West Highland White Terrier, your pet will be more allergy-friendly.
How Big Do Westiepoos Get?
When it comes to Westiepoo size, they can be anywhere from 20-35 pounds, although crossbreeding can result in both teacup Westiepoos along with mini Westiepoos. They measure in at around 11-17 inches.
How Much Does a Westiepoo Cost?
Pricing depends on a number of factors, although a general price tag will fall between $250-$1000. There are also a number of other factors that affect their price, such as:
Color: These dogs can have different colored furs. In addition to the typical black or white Westiepoo, you can find professionals who specialize in breeding Westiepoos, specifically brown Westiepoos, apricot Westiepoos, cream Westiepoos, or even grey Westiepoos, among other variations. Typically, the more “exotic” the color, the more expensive the dog.
Coat: Breeders charge different prices based on the coat. Essentially, the more “poodle” within the dog’s genetics, the more allergy-friendly the dog is. This can sometimes result in a higher price tag.
Location & Demand: Prices can fluctuate based on where you live, along with the level of demand. Bigger metropolitan cities such as San Francisco or New York will often have higher price tags because both of these places tend to have a higher cost of living, along with a greater need for allergy-friendly dogs.
Reputation of the Breeder: When it comes to purchasing from a breeder, you certainly want to do your research so that you purchase from a reputable, established breeder. While it may be cheaper to buy your doodle from an at-home breeder or from Craigslist, a good breeder can mean a world of difference. If you want a healthy, long-living dog, then it can certainly be worth spending the extra money on a reliable breeder who has done their due diligence in producing healthy pups. Keep in mind that you can also find these doodles in shelters and other rescue centers!
How Long Do Westiepoos Live?
In general, Westiepoos will live between 13-15 years. However, there can still be outliers within these statistics. An increased lifespan can also be attributed to crossbreeding (crossbred dogs usually outlive their purebred counterparts) along with purchasing a dog from a reputable breeder.
What’s a Westiepoo’s Temperament?
Westiepoos are social, outgoing, and extremely friendly. They love being around people and especially love to be active. They generally do very well with children and families.
How to Prepare for a Westipoo Puppy
If you are thinking about getting a Westipoo puppy, there are a few things you should know about how to prepare for one.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that you have a good vet lined up. This breed of dog is prone to some health issues, so you want to make sure that you have a vet who is familiar with these issues and can help you keep your puppy healthy.
You should also start looking into obedience training classes. Westipoo puppies can be a bit stubborn, so it is important to start training them early. obedience training will help your puppy learn basic commands and manners, which will make life much easier for both of you.
Finally, be prepared to spend a lot of time walking your Westipoo puppy. This breed loves to walk and needs a lot of exercise, so be sure to make time for daily walks. Walking will also help socialize your puppy, which is important for their development.
What Food to Feed Your Westipoo Puppy
As with any puppy, it is important to feed your Westipoo a high-quality, age-appropriate diet. Puppies need a lot of protein and fat to help them grow and develop properly, so look for a food that is specifically designed for puppies.
You should also avoid feeding your puppy table scraps or human food, as this can cause them to develop digestive issues. Stick to a healthy, balanced diet specifically for puppies to help keep your Westipoo healthy and happy.
Potential Health Complications
As with any dog, there are potential health complications that you should be aware of if you are considering a Westipoo puppy.
One potential health issue is allergies. Many Westipoos suffer from allergies to things like pollen, dust, and grass. If your puppy has allergies, it is important to work with your vet to find a treatment plan that works for them.
Another potential health issue is joint problems. Because of their small size, Westipoos are prone to developing joint problems like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Again, it is important to work with your vet to find a treatment plan that works for your puppy if they develop any joint problems.
Finally, Westipoos can also be prone to developing dental problems. Their small mouths make them more likely to develop overcrowding and other dental issues. Be sure to brush your puppy’s teeth regularly and take them to the vet for regular checkups to help prevent any dental problems.
How Often to Feed Your Westipoo Dog
As with any dog, the amount you feed your Westipoo will depend on their age, activity level, and weight. Puppies will need to eat more often than adult dogs, and active dogs will need more calories than sedentary dogs.
In general, you should feed your Westipoo puppy three to four times a day. As they get older, you can reduce the number of meals to two a day.
And finally, always make sure to have fresh water available for your Westipoo at all times. Dogs need a lot of water, especially active dogs, so be sure to keep their water bowl full and clean.
Now that you know what to expect from a Westipoo puppy, you can start preparing for your new arrival. Just remember to consult with your vet, start obedience training early, and be prepared to walk your puppy often. With a little preparation, you will be ready for anything your new puppy throws your way.
Is a Westipoo Right for You?
If you are looking for a small breed dog that is affectionate and playful, a Westipoo may be the right choice for you.
This breed is a great choice for families with small children, as they are typically very good-natured and patient. They also do well with other dogs and pets, making them a great addition to any home.
Conclusion
When you think about an amazing dog, you probably imagine a smart, yet playful and sweet dog. If that sounds like your kind of dog, then a Westiepoo may be the perfect addition to your family.