Breed History:

The Westiepoo is a designer companion crossbreed developed by crossing the West Highland White Terrier with the Poodle, usually a Miniature Poodle. The breed gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century as breeders sought to combine the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the confidence, charm, and lively personality of the West Highland White Terrier.

The result is a small, affectionate, and energetic companion dog that is well suited to active families and individuals. Because it is a hybrid breed, appearance and temperament can vary, though most Westiepoos inherit desirable traits from both parents.

Today, the Westiepoo is appreciated as a friendly family companion and adaptable house pet.

Size: Small

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Westiepoo is a compact, sturdy, and fluffy companion dog.

The breed commonly features:

• Round expressive eyes

• Medium-length muzzle

• Small folded ears or drop ears

• Compact athletic body

• Tail carried upright or slightly curved

Its coat is typically:

• Wavy

• Curly

• Soft and dense

Common coat colours include:

• White

• Cream

• Apricot

• Black

• Grey

• Brown

• Parti-colour combinations

Many Westiepoos inherit the bright expression and sturdy build of the West Highland White Terrier.

Breed Type – Companion Dog:

The Westiepoo is an affectionate, intelligent, and lively companion breed.

It is known for being:

• Friendly and outgoing

• Loyal and devoted

• Playful and energetic

• Intelligent and curious

• Alert and watchful

The breed generally enjoys spending time with people and often forms strong bonds with family members.

Its terrier heritage contributes confidence and enthusiasm, while the Poodle side adds trainability and intelligence.

Training:

The Westiepoo is intelligent and generally eager to learn.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Obedience training

• Mental stimulation and enrichment activities

• Confidence building exercises

The breed excels in:

• Trick training

• Obedience

• Agility

• Interactive canine sports

Consistent training helps manage occasional terrier stubbornness.

Health & Care:

The Westiepoo may occasionally be prone to:

• Patellar luxation

• Allergies

• Skin conditions

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

• Dental disease

Routine veterinary care, proper grooming, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Health risks vary depending on the traits inherited from each parent breed.

Living Conditions:

The Westiepoo adapts well to many living situations.

Suitable environments include:

• Apartments

• Family homes

• Houses with secure yards

• Active households

The breed enjoys companionship and may develop separation-related behaviours if left alone for long periods.

It generally thrives when included in family activities.

Exercise:

The Westiepoo has moderate exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks

• Interactive play sessions

• Puzzle toys and enrichment games

• Agility and obedience activities

The breed enjoys activity but is generally manageable in smaller living spaces.

Grooming:

The coat requires regular maintenance.

• Brushing 3–4 times weekly

• Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The breed is typically low-shedding but requires consistent coat care to prevent matting.

Advantages:

• Friendly and affectionate temperament

• Intelligent and trainable

• Adaptable to apartment living

• Usually low-shedding coat

• Good family companion

• Playful and entertaining personality

Disadvantages:

• Requires frequent grooming and coat maintenance

• Can develop separation anxiety

• May inherit terrier stubbornness

• Needs regular mental stimulation

• May bark excessively if bored

• Requires ongoing companionship and interaction