Whoodle

When you breed a poodle with a soft-coated Wheaten terrier, you get what’s known as a Whoodle. This canine has a friendly, affectionate personality and is very energetic. Whoodles belong to the hybrid group of dogs.

Though Whoodles originated in the United States, no one knows exactly when they were first bred. These dogs shed very little, which is a trait they get from both sides of the family.

These dogs are popular with families because of their playfulness and ability to interact well with children.

Evolution

The Whoodle is one of many ‘designer dogs’ developed in the late 20th century, likely around the 1980s, in an attempt to combine the hypoallergenic, non-shedding coat and intelligence of the poodle with other popular breeds. The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is known for its beautiful, soft fur, so the combination produces a dog with a lovely, soft, low-shedding coat.

3 Pros and Cons of Owning Whoodles

Size and Weight

Usually, standard Whoodles can grow as tall as 20 inches from head to foot. Furthermore, these dogs can weigh as much as 60 pounds, fully grown. At 8 weeks of age, standard Whoodles weigh around 10 pounds, and they are considered fully grown at 18 months.

Common Health Issues

Understandably, Whoodles have some of the same health issues as poodles and Wheaten terriers. One of those issues is epilepsy. This condition is a result of abnormal electrical activity in the dog’s brain. It can cause a dog to have seizures. These seizures can come in the form of convulsions, or a dog can lose consciousness. This is usually diagnosed in a dog between the ages of 1 and 5 years old. Fortunately, some medications can control seizures.

Additionally, Progressive Retinal Atrophy can happen. This is when the cells in a dog’s eyes deteriorate over time, leading to partial or total blindness. A dog that’s reluctant to go outside in the dark is one possible sign of this condition. Sometimes supplements can slow down its progression.

Also, Whoodles are prone to bloat. This is when the dog’s stomach becomes twisted, trapping food, liquid, and air. Bloat decreases blood flow to other organs and is very serious. Eating food too quickly can lead to bloat. Some symptoms include a distended stomach, retching, and trouble breathing. A veterinarian can relieve bloat with a special tube or even surgery. An owner needs to be aware of the signs of this condition.

Temperament and Behavior

These dogs have playful, goofy personalities and an affectionate temperament. They love to run, jump, and play games with their families. In fact, they are well-known for their energetic behavior. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, just like their poodle and Wheaten terrier parents.

Of course, the trait of intelligence is helpful when training any dog. However, they are inquisitive, which means they are easily distracted during training time. So, having very few distractions around and keeping training sessions short are both helpful in providing obedience instruction to this hybrid dog.

How to Take Care of Whoodles

First of all, an owner who wants to take excellent care of their pet can begin by learning as much as possible about this breed before getting one. Taking into account the diet of a puppy or adult as well as its exercise needs, health issues, and grooming requirements can help an owner to make a sensible plan of care for this lively dog.

The Best Dog Food

Not surprisingly, a puppy and an adult dog require different types and amounts of nutrients in their diet. For that reason, discover some of the basic nutrients to include in the diet of puppies and adults.

Puppy food: Omega-3 fatty acids and DHA in a Whoodle puppy’s diet contribute to the healthy development of its eyes and brain. Supporting a puppy’s eye health early on can help to prevent Progressive retinal atrophy. Calcium is an important ingredient that provides strength to the puppy’s growing bones and teeth. Fat is essential for giving these active puppies the energy they need to explore and discover their environment. Plus, protein in the form of chicken, whole grain wheat, or pork liver adds strength to developing muscles and joints.

Adult dog food: Antioxidants support a healthy immune system in an adult Whoodle. Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to the healthy vision of this dog and serve as some protection against Progressive retinal atrophy. Protein supports strong muscles and tendons. An adult Whoodle should still have fat in its diet, but a limited amount. A limited amount of fat offers an adult dog the energy it needs without adding excess weight. An adult Whoodle should receive three small portions of food, three times a day. This prevents the dog from gulping down food (along with a lot of air), leading to a possible case of bloat.

Maintenance and Grooming

So, how much do these dogs shed? One of the many reasons why this hybrid is so popular is that it sheds very little hair.

A grooming routine for the dog should include brushing it two to three times per week. A slicker brush is useful for removing mats and tangles. Make sure the bristles of the slicker brush have plastic covers, so they brush lightly against the dog’s skin. It’s a good idea to go over the dog’s coat with a nylon brush. This grooming tool stirs up natural oils and makes the dog’s black, silver, or rust coat look shiny.

Sebaceous adenitis is a common skin condition. Hair loss and redness are both signs of sebaceous adenitis. Luckily, there are some topical salves that can help treat this condition.

Training

These are intelligent dogs. As a result, they’re easier to train. But, along with being intelligent, they are easily distracted. So, it’s best to schedule short training sessions in an area that is free of distractions.

Exercise

Importantly, regular exercise plays a part in maintaining the good health of these dogs. They need around 60 minutes of exercise each day. Playing chase, walking in a nearby field or woods, or alternately visiting a dog park are all great forms of exercise for the dog.

A toy or mini Whoodle would be suitable for apartment living. However, in terms of size, a standard Whoodle is a little too large to live comfortably in an apartment.

Puppies

Puppies are anxious to explore their environment from the get-go. An owner should allow these puppies to wander in a fenced-in, safe area until they get some obedience training.

Children and Whoodles

Once they’ve been socialized, these dogs are good with kids of all ages. They love to run around outside and have fun or cuddle next to a family member indoors.

Dogs Similar to Whoodles

Other breeds similar to these dogs include:

• Labradoodles: Labradoodles and Whoodles are intelligent and shed very little. Both dogs can have a black coat; however, a Whoodle’s fur can be many other colors, such as silver, chocolate, or rust.
• Goldendoodles: Goldendoodles and Whoodles have a friendly, playful temperament. In terms of energy, a Goldendoodle is less energetic than a Whoodle.
• Cockapoos: Cockapoos and Whoodles have an affectionate temperament. When it comes to size, a Whoodle weighs more than a Cockapoo.