Is a Whoodle Right for You?

Adorable and energetic, Whoodles combine the playful Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier with the intelligent, stately Poodle. Also called the Wheatendoodle, the Wheatenpoo, the Sweatendoodle, and the Sweatenpoo, these hybrid pups tend to have distinctive curly or wavy coats you’ll love to stroke. Off the couch, these energetic Poodle mixes love to play, making them great companions for active individuals and families.

With their friendly, loyal nature and moderate energy levels, Whoodles are as charming as they are versatile and will happily feel at home in many kinds of households. Read on for everything you need to know about the Whoodle.

Whoodle characteristics overview

• Breed type: Crossbreed

• Common nicknames: Wheatendoodle, Wheatenpoo, Whoo

• Coat: Curly

• Hypoallergenic: Yes, they might not trigger allergies.

• Temperament: Confident, clever, playful

• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Size: Large - 40 to 70 pounds

• Variety: Miniature Whoodles and Toy Whoodles

Jordan Clarke / Stocksy/

Whoodle physical traits and appearance

As a mix of Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers and Poodles, their size can vary, but most rock a curly or wavy coat that is soft, dense, and low-shedding. They’ve got long, floppy ears, almond-shaped eyes, and typically a black or brown nose. Looks-wise, expect them to lean more Wheaten than Poodle, with a rounder muzzle to match.

When do Whoodles stop growing?

Whoodles usually stop growing by the time they are 12 to 18 months old, though most of their growth happens within their first year. By this age, they will have reached their full height and weight.

How big will a Whoodle get?

The size of a Whoodle depends on whether they are bred with a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle. Standard Whoodles are the largest, typically weighing 40 to 70 pounds and standing 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. Miniature Whoodles fall in the medium-sized range, weighing 20 to 40 pounds and standing 14 to 17 inches tall. Toy Whoodles are the smallest, usually weighing 10 to 20 pounds and standing 10 to 14 inches tall.

What colors do Whoodles come in?

Whoodles come in a variety of colors, thanks to the diverse coat genetics of their Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Poodle parents. Common colors include cream, apricot, red, black, brown, and gray. They may also have multi-colored coats with patterns such as parti-colored (two or more distinct colors) or phantom (darker base colors with lighter markings). Their coats can range from curly to wavy and are often soft, dense, and low-shedding.

Do Whoodles shed?

Whoodles are generally considered low-shedding dogs, thanks to their Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Poodle lineage. Their coats tend to be curly or wavy, which helps trap loose hair instead of letting it fall freely. While they don’t shed much, they require regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats, as their dense coat can become unruly without care. This low-shedding quality often makes Whoodles a popular choice for those seeking a cleaner home or who are sensitive to pet hair.

Jen Grantham / Stocksy/

Whoodle temperament

Whoodles are smart, friendly, and full of energy. They’ve got the brains of a Poodle and the sweet, social nature of a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, which means they’re eager to please and pretty easy to train. (Though, like any breed, it will still take plenty of time of patience.) Whoodle pups love to play and make awesome buddies for active people and families.

Do Whoodles bark a lot?

Whoodles aren’t likely to bark excessively, but their barking tendencies can vary depending on their individual personality and environment. They are naturally alert and may bark to let their family know about visitors or unfamiliar noises. However, they are generally not yappy dogs. With proper training and socialization, any unnecessary barking can usually be managed. Their balanced nature makes them adaptable, and they’re typically more likely to bark with purpose rather than out of habit.

Are Whoodles good family dogs?

Yes, Whoodles make excellent family dogs. They tend to be friendly, affectionate, and eager to please, traits inherited from both their Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Poodle parents. They also tend to get along well with other pets when properly socialized. With the right amount of exercise, attention, and care, Whoodles thrive in family environments and make loving, loyal companions.

Are Whoodles good with kids?

Yes, Whoodles are generally great with kids. They are likely to be playful, gentle, and patient, making them well-suited for families with children of all ages. Their friendly and affectionate nature helps them bond easily with younger family members, and their energetic side often makes them a fun companion for active kids. 

However, like any dog, supervision and proper introductions are important, especially with very young children, to ensure positive interactions. Early training and socialization can help reinforce good behavior and strengthen their role as a loving and loyal family companion.

Are Whoodles good with cats?

Yes, Whoodles can be good with cats, especially if they are properly introduced and socialized from a young age. Their friendly and laid-back nature usually helps them get along with other animals, including cats. Their playful energy and exuberant behavior can be a bit much for a feline friend. It’s important to monitor their interactions, particularly in the beginning, to ensure everyone feels comfortable. 

Are Whoodles good with other dogs?

Yes, Whoodles are generally good with other dogs thanks to their friendly and social nature, especially when they are properly socialized from a young age. Their playful and cooperative demeanor usually makes them great companions for other dogs in the household or during playtime at parks. As with any dog, positive early experiences and careful introductions are important to help them build good relationships with other dogs. Whoodles usually enjoy the company of other pets and thrive in multi-pet households.

Are Whoodles easy to train?

Yes, Whoodles are generally easy to train. They are likely to inherit intelligence from both the Poodle and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, making them quick learners. They are eager to please, which often helps with training, as they tend to respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and play. 

While Whoodles are usually eager and focused, their energy and playfulness can sometimes lead to distractions, so consistent, short training sessions work best. Early socialization and training will help them develop good behavior and manners, and they tend to do well with obedience training. Also, keep in mind that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Is a Whoodle smart?

Yes, Whoodles tend to be very smart. They are likely to inherit high intelligence from both their Poodle and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier parents. Poodles tend to have keen problem-solving skills and trainability, while Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are also intelligent and independent. Their intelligence, combined with their affectionate and friendly nature, makes them versatile and well-suited to a variety of tasks, from obedience training to learning new tricks.

Do Whoodles like to cuddle?

Yes, Whoodles are usually affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their family members. They are likely to be friendly and love to be close to their people, making them excellent lap-dogs and companions. Whether it’s snuggling on the couch or curling up at your feet, most Whoodles love being part of the family and tend to have a sweet, loving nature. Their generally gentle temperament makes them especially suited for families who enjoy having a dog that thrives on closeness and companionship.

Can Whoodles be left alone?

Whoodles can tolerate being left alone for moderate periods, but they are social dogs who prefer to be around their family members. As with many intelligent and affectionate breeds, they may get bored or anxious if left alone for too long. Separation anxiety can develop in some Whoodles if they aren’t used to being alone, leading to destructive behavior or excessive barking. It’s best to gradually get them accustomed to being on their own, provide them with engaging toys or puzzles, and ensure they get plenty of exercise and attention when you return. Whoodles do best in environments where they are not left alone for extended periods regularly.

Tom Cattini/ Pexels/

Whoodle health

What are the health issues with Whoodles?

Whoodles, like all dogs, can inherit health issues, though their mixed breed genetics can reduce the risk of some breed-specific problems. Common health issues that Whoodles may experience include:

• Hip dysplasia: This is a common condition, especially in large dogs, where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to discomfort or arthritis.   

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): This eye condition can lead to gradual vision loss and is more common in dogs with Poodle genetics.

• Allergies: Some Whoodles, especially those with more Wheaten Terrier traits, may be prone to food or environmental allergies.

• Ear infections: Due to their soft, dense coats and floppy ears, Whoodles can be prone to ear infections if their ears aren’t kept clean and dry.

• Hypothyroidism: This condition, more common in certain breeds like the Poodle, can cause weight gain, low energy, and skin issues.

Are Whoodles low maintenance?

Whoodles are generally considered moderately low-maintenance compared to some other breeds, but they do require regular care and attention, especially when it comes to grooming. In terms of exercise, Whoodles are active dogs and need regular physical and mental stimulation, but they are not typically considered as high-energy as some other breeds. They are affectionate and love attention, so making time for companionship and interaction is key to their happiness. With proper grooming and attention, Whoodles can be a relatively easy breed to care for.

Do Whoodles need grooming?

Yes, Whoodles do need regular grooming due to their curly or wavy coats. Their coats can mat and tangle if not brushed regularly, so daily brushing is recommended to keep them looking their best and prevent mats from forming. They will also benefit from professional grooming every couple of months to maintain their coat’s health and to trim it as needed. 

In addition to grooming, it’s important to clean their ears, trim their nails, and maintain their dental health. While their low-shedding nature makes them easier to manage compared to some other breeds, grooming is still essential to keep them comfortable and looking great.

Are Whoodles hypoallergenic?

Yes, Whoodles are considered hypoallergenic, given the genetic influence of the curly and low-shedding Poodle. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, Whoodles are often a good choice for people with mild to moderate allergies, as their coat is less likely to cause reactions compared to many other breeds. Regular grooming is important to minimize the buildup of dander and hair, and keeping their environment clean can also help manage allergy symptoms.

Ready to adopt a Whoodle?

The easiest way to adopt a Whoodle is through a rescue group that specializes in the breed. You can start by doing a breed search on Adopt a Pet. The search will show you all the available Whoodle in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for a Whoodle puppy through a breeder, but adopting a Whoodle from a shelter or rescue organization can be much more affordable. Adopting a Whoodle can be a deeply fulfilling experience, allowing you to welcome a loving, energetic dog into your life while making a positive impact on the community.

References

“Wheaten Terrier Breed Profile: Things to Know before Adopting.” Adoptapet.com, 2025, www.adoptapet.com/dog-breeds/wheaten-terrier. Accessed 6 Mar. 2025.

‌“Bringing Home Poodle.” Carolina Poodle Rescue, Carolina Poodle Rescue, carolinapoodlerescue.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Going-Home-Sheet.pdf.