A Whoodle is a mixed breed dog – a cross between the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Poodle dog breeds. Playful, friendly, and active, these dogs inherited some of their parents’ best qualities. The Wheaten Terrier is known for being a loyal family pet, while the Poodle is known for its intelligence and hypoallergenic coat. As a result, Whoodles are often good-natured dogs that are easy to train and unlikely to cause allergies.
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and there is certainly a breed for everyone. Some people prefer small dogs, while others want a dog that will be their running buddy. But what if you’re looking for a medium-sized dog with a hypoallergenic coat? That’s where the whole comes in!
People allergic to dogs may not even realize they can still have a furry friend. This designer dog breed will melt your heart without making your nose run! But before you run out and adopt a Whoodle, you should know a few things about this special breed.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the Whoodle. From their origins to their unique physical traits, we’ll cover this popular breed’s basics. So if you’re thinking about adding a Whoodle to your family, read on to learn more!
Origin and History:
The Whoodle crosses the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Standard Poodle. This mix first became popular in the United States in the 1990s, although they are still relatively rare compared to other designer breeds.
Wheaten Terriers are originally from Ireland and were used as hunting and working dogs. These purebred dogs were brought to the United States in the 20th century and became famous farm dogs. Standard Poodles also have a long history, dating back to 17th century Germany, which were used as water retrievers. Both of these breeds are recognized by the American Kennel Club.
The Whoodle or Wheaten Terrier Poodle was bred for its hypoallergenic coat, as both the Wheaten Terrier and Standard Poodle have coats that are less likely to trigger allergies in people. They are also bred for their trainability and overall personality, as both parent breeds are known for being intelligent and good-natured.
The Whoodle is recognized by various registries, including the American Canine Hybrid Club as SWHEAT-N-POO, International Designer Canine Registry and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club. However, they are not yet recognized by the AKC.
Appearance and Size of Whoodle:
The Whoodle or Wheatendoodle can vary quite a bit in appearance, as they can take after either parent breed in terms of looks. However, they are typically medium-sized dogs with hypoallergenic coats. The dog hair on Whoodle’s coat can be either straight or wavy, usually soft and silky to the touch. They can come in various colors: black, cream, brown, apricot, and red.
They have a long, rectangular head with a tapered muzzle. Their eyes are oval-shaped, and their ears are floppy and hang down close to their head. Whoodles typically have a long neck, a muscular chest, and a level back. Their tail is medium-length and usually hangs down when they are at rest.
Whoodles typically weigh between 20 and 45 pounds and stand between 13 and 20 inches tall at the shoulder. They are considered a medium-sized breed, but they can sometimes appear larger or smaller depending on which parent breed they take after.
Whoodle Personality and Temperament:
The Whoodle is a friendly, outgoing breed that loves to be around people. While they are friendly with people, Whoodles can sometimes be reserved around strangers. They may bark when someone new comes to the house, but they will usually warm up once they have been introduced.
While not typically aggressive, Whoodles can sometimes be territorial regarding other dogs. They may try to chase after other animals, so it is essential to socialize them at an early age. They are also known for being good with children, although they may knock over younger kids with their enthusiasm.
They do well in homes of all sizes, although they may do best in a house with a yard where they can run and play. The sensitivity of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers may require more patience during training than other dog breeds. However, they are generally intelligent and eager to please, so they usually catch on quickly.
In cold weather, the Whoodle’s coat will keep them warm. However, they may need to stay indoors in hot weather to avoid overheating.
They tolerate well being left alone as long as they have plenty of toys to keep them entertained. However, Whoodles may become bored if they are left alone for too long and may start to display some destructive behaviors.
Is Whoodle Easy to Train?
The Whoodle is an intelligent breed that is relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods such as praise, treats, and petting. However, they can sometimes be stubborn, so patience and consistency are important when training them.
Whoodles should be started on basic obedience training as soon as possible. This will help them to learn basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. It is also important to socialize Whoodle puppies early so they are comfortable around other dogs and people.
Enrolling in a puppy training or obedience class is recommended for novice pet owners. This will allow you to learn how to train your Whoodle effectively and socialize them with other dogs. Some Whoodle owners also participate in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and rally. This is a great way to bond with your dog while getting them some exercise.
How much Exercise do Whoodles Need?
The Whoodles are active and energetic dogs so they needs plenty of exercise. They should be taken on a daily walk or jog and enjoy playing fetch and other games. This mixed breed also need plenty of mental stimulation, so interactive toys and puzzles are a great way to keep them entertained.
While they do best with daily exercise, Whoodles can be a good fit for more sedentary lifestyles as long as they get some form of exercise every day. They are also a good breed for people who live in apartments or small homes, as they do not require a lot of space.
The dog sports of agility, obedience, and rally are also great ways to get your Whoodle some exercise while bonding with them. They may also enjoy swimming, as it is a low-impact activity that is easy on their joints.
Do Whoodles have any Health Problems?
The Whoodle is a relatively healthy breed, but there are a few health concerns. The life span of a Whoodle is 10-15 years.
Some health problems seen in Whoodles include Kidney issues, Eye infections, Retinal atrophy, and Addison’s disease.
Kidney issues are the most common health concern for Whoodles. They may develop kidney stones or other problems that cause pain and discomfort. It is important to watch for kidney problems, such as increased thirst, decreased appetite, and weight loss.
The eyes are also susceptible to infections, so keeping them clean and free of debris is important. If you notice any redness, discharge, or swelling, take your Whoodle to the vet for an evaluation. Retinal atrophy is a degenerative eye condition that can eventually lead to blindness. It is important to have your Whoodle’s eyes checked regularly by a vet to catch this condition early.
Addison’s disease is a hormonal disorder that can affect these hybrid dogs. It can cause weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If you notice these signs, take your individual dog to the vet for an evaluation.
While there are some health concerns to be aware of, the Whoodle is generally a healthy breed. They can enjoy a long and happy life with proper care and regular vet check-ups.
Do Whoodles Need Regular Grooming?
The Whoodle has a medium-length coat that is soft and wavy. They do not require a lot of grooming, but their coat should be brushed a few times a week to prevent mats and tangles. They should also be bathed as needed, typically every few weeks.
The Whoodle’s coat does not require much special care, but it is important to brush it regularly. This will help to prevent tangles and mats, and it will also keep the coat looking its best. Bathing should be done as needed, which is typically every few weeks.
When grooming your Whoodle puppy, you should also pay attention to its nails and teeth. Their nails should be trimmed regularly, and their teeth should be brushed a few times weekly. This will help to keep their nails and teeth healthy and strong.
The Whoodle is a low-maintenance breed for grooming, but they still need some primary care to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Nutrition for Whoodles:
A healthy diet is important for all dogs, and the Whoodle is no exception. They should be fed high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, activity level, and health concerns. Your vet can help you choose the best food for your Whoodle.
They should be fed a diet high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates. This will help keep their energy levels up and maintain muscle mass. Whoodles are relatively active dogs so they may need more calories than a less active breed. Your vet can help you determine how many calories your Whoodle needs daily.
Conclusion:
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the Whoodle breed. They are a wonderful breed that makes a great companion for active people. With their wavy coat and friendly personality, they are sure to bring joy to your life.
Please share this article with anyone you know who is considering getting a Whoodle. And if you have any questions, please feel free to comment below.
