Enjoy this guide and overview with lots of tips for new and existing owners of Westiepoo Doodle Dogs.

A Westiepoo, also known as a Wee Po, Wee-Poo, Westi-poo, Westipoo, Westie-Poo, Westiedoodle, or Westidoodle, is a sweet blend of a West Highland White Terrier and a Poodle.

History of Westiepoo Doodle Dogs

The Westiepoo’s lineage begins with the West Highland White Terrier, a breed with a rich history that hails from Scotland. The Westie, as it is affectionately called, was originally bred for hunting and rodent control. With a stark white coat that made them easily distinguishable from the rugged terrain, these terriers were adept at flushing out game and controlling the population of vermin on farms and in the countryside.

In addition to their courageous and stubborn nature, Westies are renowned for their intense loyalty and persistence toward their families. Despite their small size, they have a big personality that has won them a place in many people’s hearts worldwide.

The creation of the Westiepoo is rooted in the late 20th century, when breeders began to experiment with crossing different breeds to combine their best traits. In the case of the Westiepoo, breeders aimed to merge the Westie’s charming character and bold terrier spirit with the Poodle‘s renowned intelligence and non-shedding coat.

While the exact origin of the first Westiepoo is not documented, the intent behind this crossbreed was clear: to create a companion dog with a friendly disposition, less shedding, and the potential for being hypoallergenic, tapping into the increasing demand for designer dogs that could fit into a variety of lifestyles, including those of allergy sufferers.

As a relatively recent addition to the designer dog scene, Westiepoos have been growing in popularity due to their small size, adaptable nature, and engaging temperament. Their emergence as a favored breed for families and individuals highlights the continued allure of mixed-breed dogs that can provide the best of both worlds.

Selecting a Westiepoo Doodle Dog

Here’s what prospective Westiepoo owners should keep in mind:

1. Size and Space: Westiepoos are typically small to medium-sized dogs, which makes them suitable for both apartment living and homes with yards. However, they do have energy to burn, so ample playtime and daily walks are essential.
2. Coat Care: Their coats can range from curly to wavy and may inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding traits, making them a potential match for allergy sufferers. Nevertheless, they require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
3. Temperament: Known for their affectionate and playful nature, they can be excellent family pets. They inherit the West Highland White Terrier’s spunky character but are typically less intense. Early socialization is crucial to ensuring they’re well-adjusted.
4. Intelligence and Training: This mix brings the Poodle’s intelligence, which can make them highly trainable with the right techniques. Positive reinforcement works best, but be aware that the Westie’s independent streak might require patience and consistency.
5. Health Considerations: As with any breed, Westiepoos can be prone to certain health issues. It’s important to understand the health backgrounds of both parent breeds. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are a must to keep them healthy.
6. Energy Levels: They possess a moderate to high energy level and will need daily exercise to keep them fit and to prevent boredom-related behaviors such as chewing or digging.
7. Companionship Needs: Westiepoos can be very people-oriented and may not enjoy being left alone for long periods. They thrive on interaction and can become excellent companions for those able to give them enough attention.
8. Dietary Management: Pay attention to their diet, as they can be prone to weight gain. High-quality dog food, measured portions, and regular exercise are key to maintaining a healthy weight.
9. Suitability for Children and Other Pets: While they generally do well with children and other pets, especially if raised with them, supervision is recommended. Their terrier heritage may give them a high prey drive, so caution is advised around very small animals.

Size and Lifespan of Westiepoo Doodle Dogs

Westiepoos are considered small to medium-sized dogs. Typically, a Westiepoo will stand anywhere from 11 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 20 and 30 pounds when fully grown.

Benefits of Pet Insurance

On average, a Westiepoo lives for about 12 to 15 years.

Health and Maintenance of Westiepoo Doodle Dogs

Skin Conditions

West Highland White Terriers are prone to certain skin disorders, such as atopic dermatitis. Westiepoos may inherit this sensitivity, leading to itchy skin and rashes. Regular check-ups and a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain healthy skin.

Joint Issues

Poodles are known to sometimes suffer from hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that can be passed down to Westiepoo offspring. Ensuring your Westiepoo maintains a healthy weight and receives appropriate exercise can help manage and prevent joint problems.

Dental Health

Small breeds, including the Westiepoo, often have dental issues due to their compact jaw structure. Daily dental care, such as tooth brushing and offering dental chews, can help prevent periodontal disease.

Eye Conditions

Both parent breeds can experience eye issues like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment.

Maintenance for the Westiepoo

The maintenance routine for a Westiepoo is vital to their overall well-being.

Grooming: They should be brushed several times a week to prevent matting and bathed once a month to keep the coat clean and healthy.

Exercise: Westiepoos are active and energetic, requiring daily exercise to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. Activities should include walks, play sessions, and opportunities for safe off-leash running in a secure environment.

Diet: Feeding a balanced diet formulated for small to medium-sized breeds with high energy levels is ideal.

Health Checkups: Regular veterinary visits for vaccinations, parasite control, and health screenings are vital.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Westiepoo Doodle Dogs

Temperament

Westiepoos often inherit the Westie’s spirited and friendly nature, combined with the Poodle’s intelligence and trainability. This makes them amiable companions who are both alert and sociable. They can be playful and affectionate with their family, often forming strong bonds with their owners.

Interaction with Children and Elderly

This breed generally does well with children, displaying a gentle and playful demeanor. However, interactions with very young children should be supervised to ensure gentle play. Westiepoos can also be compassionate companions for the elderly, as they can match the energy levels of a quieter household, provided their exercise needs are met.

Interaction with Other Pets

With their social nature, Westiepoos can coexist peacefully with other pets, especially when raised together or properly introduced. Their terrier instinct, however, may lead them to chase smaller animals, so early socialization and training are essential to help manage these impulses.

Adaptability

Westiepoos can adapt to various living situations, from apartments to homes with large yards. They do, however, require adequate exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and the development of undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking or chewing.

Training and Intelligence

Inheriting the Poodle’s intelligence, Westiepoos are generally quick learners and responsive to training. Positive reinforcement techniques work well with this breed, and they often excel in obedience and agility activities. Their intelligence also means they can be a bit stubborn at times, so consistent training is key.

Separation Anxiety

Both parent breeds are known for their loyalty and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Westiepoos thrive on companionship and may not be the best choice for families that are away from home for extended periods. They benefit from mental stimulation such as puzzle toys when their owners are away.

Alertness and Barking

Westiepoos can be good watchdogs, as they may alert their families to strangers. However, they typically don’t display aggressive tendencies. Training can help manage any excessive barking, especially if it’s due to alerting or seeking attention.

Therapy Potential: Westiepoos are excellent therapy dogs, capable of bringing comfort and joy to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Free online workshop to train your Westiepoo to behave like a well-trained service dog

Nutrition and Diet for Westiepoo Doodle Dogs

Here’s a guide to understanding the dietary requirements of a Westiepoo:

Caloric Intake

Westiepoos are typically small to medium-sized dogs. Their caloric needs will vary and they will require a balanced diet that has enough energy for their lively demeanor.

Protein and Fat

High-quality protein is essential for muscle development and maintenance. Look for diets that list real meat, such as chicken, lamb, or fish, as the first ingredient. A moderate amount of fat is also necessary for energy and to support their coat’s health, which can be a blend of the curly Poodle coat and the straighter Westie fur.

Carbohydrates and Fiber

While Westiepoos need energy from carbohydrates, it’s important to choose sources that provide nutritional value beyond calories, such as sweet potatoes or brown rice. These should be complemented with fiber for digestive health; this is particularly important if they inherit the Poodle’s propensity for a sensitive stomach.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

A diet with a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids will help keep the Westiepoo’s skin healthy and their coat shiny and full. Fish oil supplements or diets that include flaxseed or fish can be beneficial.

Avoiding Allergens

Both the Westie and the Poodle can be prone to allergies, which can sometimes carry over to the Westiepoo. It’s important to be vigilant about their reaction to certain food ingredients. Common allergens include corn, soy, wheat, and sometimes chicken.

Portion Control and Feeding Frequency

Westiepoos can have hearty appetites and may overeat if given the chance, which can lead to obesity. It’s important to manage their portion sizes and stick to a regular feeding schedule—typically two meals a day for adults and three to four for puppies.

Treats and Supplements

Treats should be given in moderation and, where possible, should be nutritious. Dental chews can also help maintain dental health. Depending on the individual dog’s needs and in consultation with a vet, supplements like glucosamine can be beneficial for joint health, especially since small breeds can be prone to issues like patellar luxation.

Fresh Water

As with all breeds, fresh water should be available at all times to keep your Westiepoo hydrated.

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Customizing your Westiepoo’s diet to fit their energy level and individual health requirements will go a long way in ensuring they live a happy and healthy life.

Cost to Purchase a Westiepoo and Annual Costs

Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a Westiepoo puppy from a reputable breeder.

Reputable Doodle Dog Rescue Organizations in the USA

List of items needed to prepare for a Doodle Dog

After the initial year, you can generally expect the annual cost of owning a Westiepoo to range from $1,000 to $3,000, considering all the routine care and excluding any unforeseen health issues or emergency care.

Grooming a Westiepoo Doodle Dog

A Westiepoo has a small to medium build, reflecting a sturdy structure that’s both agile and robust. They may inherit the Westie’s upright tail or the Poodle’s more elegant, curling version. Each dog’s tail tells the story of its unique blend of genetics. Many Westiepoos inherit the West Highland White Terrier’s distinctive ‘beard,’ which can give them a wise and somewhat human-like expression. They typically have a fluffy, wavy, or curly coat, reminiscent of the Poodle’s hypoallergenic fur.

Coat Care

• Coat Colors: The Westiepoo’s coat may come in a variety of colors, including white, cream, beige, and sometimes with patches of grey or black. Just like some Poodles, Westiepoos can experience a change in coat color as they transition from puppyhood to adulthood, known as “clearing.” For example, a puppy that starts with a dark coat may end up with a much lighter coat as an adult.
• Brushing: To keep their coat in good condition and prevent matting, Westiepoos require regular brushing several times a week. Use a slicker brush or a steel comb for the best results.
• Bathing: A monthly bath is typically sufficient unless the dog gets particularly dirty. Use a dog-specific shampoo to maintain the health of their skin and coat.

Ear Care

• Cleaning: Check their ears regularly for dirt, wax, or signs of infection. Clean their ears gently with a vet-approved solution and a cotton ball.
• Hair trimming: To prevent ear infections in Westiepoos, a professional groomer or veterinarian should carefully trim any hair that grows inside the ear canal.

Eye Care

• Routine Checks: Regularly check their eyes for any redness, irritation, or discharge.
• Tear Stains: Some Westiepoos may develop tear stains beneath their eyes. These can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and tear stain remover products.

Nail Care

• Trimming: Their nails should be trimmed regularly, about once a month, to prevent overgrowth and cracking. If you can hear the nails clicking on the floor, they’re too long.
• Dewclaws: If your Westiepoo has dewclaws, these can sometimes grow longer than the other nails and may require more frequent trimming.

Professional Grooming

Westiepoos benefit significantly from professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks, not only to keep their coat trimmed and tidy but also to maintain overall hygiene. The frequency of haircuts may depend on the dog’s activities, coat type, and the owner’s preference for their pet’s appearance. A typical Westiepoo haircut might include a face trim, feet and tail neatening, and sometimes a “puppy cut,” which keeps the fur at a manageable length all over the body.

Join Our Doodle Dog Community

At Doodle Dogs Utopia, we believe that Westiepoos and all Doodle Dog breeds are pure joy. Join our community by subscribing to our newsletter for the latest updates and stories.  

We love hearing stories about how Westiepoos have brought joy and happiness to people’s lives. From providing companionship and emotional support to serving as therapy dogs, they truly make a positive difference. Please share your stories and tips for all types of Doodle Dogs!