A small, sturdy dog with a soft coat that is usually wavy or a little scruffy. It tends to shed lightly, though the exact texture depends on whether the pup takes after the Westie or the Poodle.134
Colourswhitecreamtanapricotwhite with blonde, blue or silver patches13
Personality what they are like
A bright, people-loving little dog that wants to be in the middle of family life. It is playful and entertaining, with a cuddly side, and often a bit of terrier spirit. Personality leans toward whichever parent a dog takes after.134
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate to high for its size. Aim for about 30-45 minutes of walks and lively play each day.31
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush several times a week, or more often, to keep the coat free of tangles. Keep nails trimmed and look after teeth with regular brushing.31
Home where they are happiest
Happy in an apartment or a larger house as long as it gets daily exercise and company.3
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A good-quality, complete food suited to its age, with animal protein as the main ingredient and healthy fats.13
Company who they like around
Sociable with people and other dogs and generally good with children. Prefers not to be left alone for long, and the terrier side may chase small animals.13
The story where it all began
The Westiepoo appeared in the United States in the late 20th century during the rise of Poodle crosses. Its Westie parent was developed in Scotland by Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch, who bred white terriers so they would stand out from game in the field.125
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Westies were bred white on purpose so hunters could easily tell them apart from foxes.2
2
The Westie parent was recognised by The Kennel Club in 1907 and appeared at Crufts the same year.2
3
The Poodle parent is often ranked as the second most intelligent dog breed, after the Border Collie.3
4
Westies became fashionable almost as soon as they reached North America in 1907-1908.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name Westiepoo is a portmanteau of its parent breeds: the West Highland White Terrier (often shortened to Westie) and the Poodle. It is also known as Westiedoodle or Wee-Poo.3
I wake to a sunbeam on the sofa and a human's sock dangling off the edge, irresistible! I pounce, shake it, then drop it for a belly rub. Breakfast is a cheerful affair of tail wags and kibble. Mid-morning, we go to the park; I chase a ball, then stop to sniff a dandelion. A big dog lumbers by, and I give a friendly bounce. Back home, I curl on a lap while someone reads. When the doorbell rings, I bark a greeting, then trot to my bed, proud of my busy day. Life is full of small adventures.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
The Royal Kennel Club
Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.4
A typical home-care rhythm for a Westiepoo. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Westiepoo tip
Choose small, firm, low-calorie dental chews that help scrape plaque without adding too many calories, and count every treat toward their daily allowance to keep their weight in check. If your Westiepoo has a sensitive stomach or itchy skin, pick limited-ingredient or novel-protein treats and ask your vet before introducing anything new.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Westiepoo, and at what times?
Feed your Westiepoo at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Follow the food label for amounts and check with your vet for a schedule that suits your dog.136
What should a Westiepoo eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, high-quality dog food with animal protein as the main ingredient. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol; check the full list with your vet.137
How often should I bathe a Westiepoo?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your Westiepoo gets dirty. Always use a dog-safe shampoo.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Westiepoo need brushing?
Brush your Westiepoo several times a week to prevent tangles; Furry Diary's starting plan suggests weekly brushing. If the coat is longer or more Poodle-like, you may need to brush more often.318Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Westiepoo's nails, and how often?
Trim your Westiepoo's nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time and stop before the quick to avoid pain.318Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Westiepoo need?
Your Westiepoo needs about 30 to 45 minutes of walks and active play each day. This keeps them happy and healthy.31Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Westiepoo's teeth and ears?
Brush your Westiepoo's teeth two to three times a week using dog toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness. Never insert anything into the ear canal.318Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Westiepoo live?
A Westiepoo typically lives between 12 and 15 years with good care.31
Is a Westiepoo good with children and other pets?
Yes, Westiepoos are generally good with children and other dogs, but their terrier side may chase small pets. They thrive on family life and company.13
Can a Westiepoo be left alone?
Westiepoos prefer not to be left alone for long periods; they are very social and enjoy being with their family. If you must leave, provide toys and company, but aim to keep absences short.13
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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