Whoodle
The Whoodle is a cross between the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Poodle. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Whoodle. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized, sturdy dog that combines the working terrier's strength with an elegant, graceful appearance. Males typically stand 18 to 19 inches at the shoulder, while females measure slightly smaller at 17 to 18 inches. Weight ranges from 30 to 45 pounds, with males generally falling between 35 and 45 pounds and females between 30 and 40 pounds, with the breed standard favoring dogs around 35 to 40 pounds. The body is compact and square in proportion, with a level topline and well-sprung ribs that give the dog a substantial yet athletic build suitable for the breed's original purpose as an all-around farm dog. The breed's most distinctive feature is its beautiful single coat, which sets it apart from most other terrier breeds. The coat is soft, silky, and gently wavy rather than curly, with a texture often compared to silk or human hair. This unique coat requires extensive grooming to maintain its characteristic appearance and prevent matting. Puppies are born with darker coats that may appear reddish, brown, mahogany, or even white, and the color gradually lightens as the dog matures. Adult dogs display the characteristic wheaten color, which can range from pale beige to a warm golden shade reminiscent of ripening wheat, hence the breed's name. The head is moderately long and rectangular, covered with coat that falls forward over the eyes in a distinctive manner. The skull is flat and clean between the ears, with a defined stop and a strong muzzle. The nose is large and black, and the eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark brown to medium brown in color, expressing a warm, friendly temperament. The ears are small to medium in size, breaking level with the skull and dropping forward close to the cheeks. The tail is docked in countries where the practice is permitted, or left natural, and is carried upright when the dog is alert or in motion.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Wheatens generally get along well with children, making them excellent family companions, though their exuberance may be overwhelming for very young children. They typically coexist peacefully with other dogs when properly socialized, though they may chase smaller pets due to their prey drive. These dogs do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods and may develop destructive behaviors or excessive barking if their need for companionship is not met. They are moderately active indoors and adapt well to various living situations provided they receive adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation to channel their energy appropriately.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Progressive Retinal Atrophy affects vision and can lead to blindness, while hip dysplasia may cause mobility problems as dogs age. Von Willebrand's Disease, a blood clotting disorder, has been identified in the breed, as has Degenerative Myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord condition. Food sensitivities and allergies are common, often requiring dietary adjustments to manage symptoms. Regular health screenings, including urine protein testing and blood work, are essential for early detection of the serious conditions affecting this breed. Prospective owners should seek breeders who test their breeding stock for these hereditary conditions.
Poodle
The Poodle is recognized in three size varieties, each sharing the same elegant build and proud carriage that defines the breed. Standard Poodles stand over 15 inches at the shoulder, typically reaching 18 to 24 inches, and weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. Miniature Poodles measure between 10 and 15 inches and weigh 10 to 15 pounds. Toy Poodles stand up to 10 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. Regardless of size, all Poodles share a squarely built, well-proportioned body that conveys an impression of elegance and athleticism. The breed moves with a light, springy, effortless gait that reflects their heritage as water retrievers. The Poodle's distinctive coat is perhaps its most recognizable feature. The coat consists of dense, naturally curly hair that continues to grow rather than shedding seasonally like most breeds. This unique coat texture is often described as hypoallergenic because it produces less dander and traps shed hair within the curls rather than releasing it into the environment. The coat requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to prevent matting and maintain the breed's characteristic appearance. While show Poodles sport elaborate clips with sculpted areas of longer hair, pet Poodles are typically kept in simpler, more manageable trims. Poodles come in a wide array of solid colors, including black, white, gray, silver, brown, apricot, cream, red, blue, and café au lait. Parti-colored Poodles displaying patches of two or more colors, as well as phantom patterns resembling Doberman markings, also occur. The head is long and fine with a moderate stop, dark oval-shaped eyes expressing keen intelligence, and long, wide ears that hang close to the head with abundant feathering. The muzzle is long and straight, and the nose color typically matches the coat shade. The tail is set high and carried upright, traditionally docked in some countries though increasingly left natural.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Poodles form strong attachments to their families and prefer to be included in daily activities rather than left alone for extended periods. They can be sensitive to household tensions and may become anxious in stressful environments. While not typically aggressive, Poodles make alert watchdogs who will bark to announce visitors or unusual sounds. Some Poodles can be prone to excessive barking if this tendency is not addressed through training. Their combination of intelligence, trainability, and adaptable nature makes them suitable for first-time dog owners willing to commit to their grooming and exercise needs.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Smaller Poodles face their own health challenges. Luxating patella is extremely common in Toy and Miniature varieties, while Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease primarily affects Toy Poodles. Collapsed trachea and hypoglycemia pose particular risks for the smallest Toy Poodles. Cushing's Disease appears more frequently in Miniature Poodles. Von Willebrand's Disease, a blood clotting disorder, affects all sizes. Dental problems are common especially in smaller varieties due to crowded teeth in small jaws. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, represents a life-threatening emergency that primarily affects Standard Poodles. Regular veterinary care, appropriate health screening, and awareness of size-specific risks help ensure Poodles live long, healthy lives.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Whoodle may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and Poodle to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.