If you’re looking for a fun-loving, intelligent, and affectionate companion, the Whoodle might be the perfect dog for you. A hybrid breed that combines the best traits of the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Poodle, Whoodles are energetic, hypoallergenic, and make excellent family pets. But before bringing one home, it’s essential to understand what makes this designer breed special.
Whoodle Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 12 to 20 inches (30 to 51 cm) |
| Weight | 20 to 45 pounds (9 to 20 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Coat Type | Silky, medium-length, wavy or curly |
| Colors | Black, apricot, cream, red, silver, or parti |
| Temperament | Affectionate, friendly, social |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high |
| Exercise Needs | 1 hour daily |
| Shedding | Low |
| Trainability | Highly trainable, eager to please |
| Average Price | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| Best For | Families, active owners, allergy sufferers |
What Is a Whoodle?
A Whoodle is a mixed-breed dog that results from crossing a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier with a Poodle. Because both parent breeds are known for their intelligence and friendly nature, Whoodles are affectionate, playful, and highly trainable. They come in a range of sizes depending on whether they are bred with a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle.
This breed is also sometimes called the Wheatenpoo, Wheatendoodle, or Sweatendoodle. While they are not yet recognized by major kennel clubs, they are gaining popularity among dog lovers who want a low-shedding, friendly pet with a unique and lovable personality.
The Origins of the Whoodle
The Whoodle is a relatively new designer breed, gaining popularity due to its charming personality and hypoallergenic coat. While there isn’t an exact date of origin, Whoodles have been bred intentionally for several decades, combining the best traits of the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Poodle. Breeders sought to create a companion dog with intelligence, friendliness, and minimal shedding, making them ideal for families and allergy sufferers alike.
As demand for low-shedding, family-friendly dogs has increased, Whoodles have steadily found their place in many households. Their growing popularity has led to more responsible breeding programs focusing on health, temperament, and genetic diversity.
Meet the Parents
To better understand the Whoodle, let’s take a closer look at the parent breeds that make up this hybrid: the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Poodle. Each of these breeds contributes unique traits that influence the Whoodle’s personality, coat type, and overall temperament.
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Originally bred in Ireland as a farm dog, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier was used for herding, hunting, and guarding livestock. Unlike many other terriers, the Wheaten is known for its soft, wavy coat and friendly, playful personality. These dogs are affectionate, loyal, and full of energy, making them excellent family pets. They are also known for their moderate intelligence and eagerness to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, they do have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals.
Their alert and spirited nature makes them excellent watchdogs, always ready to protect their loved ones. While they thrive in active households, they also enjoy cuddle time with their families. With proper training, they can get along well with children and other pets. Despite their friendly disposition, early socialization is important to prevent any territorial behaviors. Their adaptable nature allows them to fit into various living situations, whether in the city or the countryside.
Poodle
Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds and come in three sizes: Toy Poodle, Miniature, and Standard Poodle. Originally bred as water retrievers in Germany, Poodles have a hypoallergenic, curly coat that makes them a popular choice for people with allergies. They are highly trainable, social, and affectionate, excelling in obedience training and dog sports. Their keen intelligence allows them to quickly learn commands, making them ideal for various canine activities such as agility and therapy work.
Additionally, Poodles are known for their strong bond with their owners, often displaying a high level of emotional sensitivity. Their playful and energetic nature makes them a joy to have as a companion, ensuring they fit well into both active and relaxed households. Despite their sometimes dignified appearance, Poodles have a fun-loving personality that brings joy to their families. They thrive in environments where they receive mental stimulation and plenty of attention, making them an excellent breed for dedicated owners.
By combining the traits of these two breeds, Whoodles inherit intelligence, friendliness, and a hypoallergenic coat, making them an excellent choice for many dog lovers.
Whoodle Appearance
Since Whoodles are a mixed breed, their appearance can vary. However, most have a medium-length, soft, silky, wavy, or curly coat that resembles the Wheaten Terrier’s but with the curliness of the Poodle. Their ears are floppy, and their expressive eyes give them an endearing and intelligent look. Their build is sturdy but not overly bulky, making them agile and active dogs.
Whoodle Size and Color Variations
Whoodles come in different sizes, depending on the type of Poodle used in breeding:
- Toy Whoodle – 10-15 pounds, under 12 inches tall
- Miniature Whoodle – 20-30 pounds, 14-18 inches tall
- Standard Whoodle – 20-45 pounds, 12-20 inches tall
They also come in various colors, including:
- Black
- Apricot
- Cream
- Red
- Silver
- Parti (a mix of two colors)
Temperament: What to Expect From a Whoodle
Whoodles are friendly, affectionate, and highly social dogs. They love being around people and other animals, making them great family pets. Because both parent breeds are intelligent, Whoodles are quick learners and enjoy activities that engage their minds. They are known for their playful nature and love to participate in games, hikes, and other physical activities.
However, due to their Terrier heritage, Whoodles can sometimes be stubborn. Early socialization and consistent training are essential to help them develop good behavior.
Training and Exercise Needs
Whoodles are highly trainable dogs, thanks to their Poodle intelligence and eagerness to please. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise. Training should start early, with a focus on socialization, obedience, and leash manners.
When it comes to exercise, Whoodles have moderate to high energy levels. They need 1 hour of daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Interactive toys, agility training, and puzzle games are great ways to keep them engaged.
For effective training techniques, check out the Best Dog Training Methods to learn strategies that can help bring out the best in your Whoodle.
Grooming and Maintenance
Whoodles have a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, but it requires regular maintenance. Their soft, wavy fur can become tangled, so brushing 3-4 times a week is necessary to prevent matting. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is also recommended to keep their coat healthy and manageable.
Other grooming needs include:
- Ear Cleaning: Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
- Teeth Brushing: Brush their teeth 2-3 times a week for good dental health.
- Nail Trimming: Trim nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
Are Whoodles Good Family Dogs?
Yes! Whoodles are known for their affectionate and friendly nature, making them excellent family pets. They get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their playful and loving demeanor makes them a joy to have around, but they do require consistent training and socialization from an early age.
Common Health Concerns
Like all hybrid breeds, Whoodles can inherit health conditions from their parent breeds. Some common health concerns include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Addison’s disease
- Allergies
To ensure a healthy puppy, it’s essential to work with a reputable breeder who screens for genetic health issues.
How Much Does a Whoodle Puppy Cost?
The cost of a Whoodle puppy can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, size, and location. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,500 for a Whoodle from a reputable breeder. Puppies with champion bloodlines or rare coat colors may be priced even higher.
Additionally, initial costs for veterinary checkups, vaccinations, grooming supplies, and training should be considered when budgeting for a new Whoodle puppy. Adopting from a rescue organization may be a more affordable option, often costing between $300 and $600, including vaccinations and spaying/neutering.
Where to Find a Whoodle Dog for Adoption
If you are considering adopting a Whoodle, start by checking local animal shelters and rescue groups that specialize in Poodle and Terrier mixes. Many Whoodles end up in rescues due to owners underestimating their grooming and exercise needs. Websites such as Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet, and breed-specific rescues are excellent resources for finding adoptable Whoodles.
Additionally, some reputable breeders have retired breeding dogs or rehoming programs where older Whoodles may be available for adoption. It’s essential to ask about the dog’s history, temperament, and health before making a commitment to ensure a good match for your home.
Is a Whoodle Right for You?
If you’re looking for a loving, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog that fits well into an active household, the Whoodle could be a great choice. However, they require time, training, and regular grooming, so be sure you can meet their needs before bringing one home.
With the right care and attention, a Whoodle can become a cherished member of your family for years to come!
Before making a decision, check out getting a dog to ensure you’re prepared for the responsibilities that come with bringing a new dog into your home.