Weshis are small, sturdy dogs with a fluffy coat that can vary in color and texture, reflecting both parent breeds.

Small, typically 10-17 inches tall at the shoulder.

Usually 12-22 pounds.

Can be long and flowing like a Shih Tzu or wiry and dense like a Westie; often a mix of both.

Commonly white, cream, black, brown, or a combination of these.

Rounded head with a relatively short muzzle.

Can be drop ears like the Shih Tzu or semi-erect like the Westie.

Typically carried high, often with a slight curve.

Weshis are known for their friendly, playful, and affectionate personalities, making them excellent companions.

They form strong bonds with their families and love to cuddle.

They enjoy games and interactive activities.

Generally good with children and other pets, especially when socialized early.

They can be surprisingly good watchdogs, barking to alert their owners to anything unusual.

They are smart and capable of learning tricks and commands.

May inherit some stubbornness from the Westie parent.

Weshis are well-suited for families, singles, and seniors looking for a loving and adaptable companion.

Relatively low shedding (depending on coat type).

Can be barky if not trained properly.

The ideal owner for a Weshi is someone who can provide consistent training, regular grooming, and plenty of love and attention. They thrive in environments where they are part of the family.

Weshi care involves regular grooming, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment, suitable for apartment or house living.

Requires brushing several times a week to prevent matting, especially if they have a longer coat. Professional grooming may be needed every few months.

Bathe only as needed, usually every 2-3 months, or when they get particularly dirty.

Trim nails regularly, typically every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections, especially if they have drop ears.

Feed a high-quality, small-breed dog food appropriate for their age and activity level.

Brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental disease.

Weshis are moderately easy to train, benefiting from positive reinforcement. They require moderate daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Weshis respond well to positive reinforcement methods like treats and praise. Early socialization and puppy classes are highly recommended to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults. While intelligent, they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak inherited from their Westie parent, so patience and consistency are key.

Weshis need about 30-60 minutes of exercise per day. This can include walks, playtime in a yard, or interactive games indoors. They are not overly demanding in terms of exercise, but they do need regular activity to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues.

Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate them during training.

Establish a consistent routine for training, feeding, and exercise.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their minds engaged.

Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain their interest.

Weshis are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing lameness.

A malformation of the hip joint, leading to arthritis and pain.

Weshis can be prone to skin allergies, causing itching and irritation.

Conditions like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can occur, potentially leading to vision loss.

The Weshi is a relatively new designer dog breed, likely originating in North America within the last few decades. As a hybrid, it's not recognized by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC). The breed's history is tied to the histories of its parent breeds: the West Highland White Terrier, originally bred in Scotland for hunting small game, and the Shih Tzu, an ancient breed with roots in Tibet and favored by Chinese royalty. The goal of crossing these two breeds was likely to create a small, companionable dog with a blend of their desirable traits, reducing the likelihood of breed-specific health issues.

No breed is truly hypoallergenic, but Weshis with a more Westie-like coat may shed less and be better tolerated by people with mild allergies. However, individual reactions can vary.

The average lifespan of a Weshi is 12-15 years.

Weshis can be vocal, especially if they inherit the Westie's watchdog tendencies. Early training can help manage excessive barking.

Weshis can get along well with cats, especially if they are raised together. Early socialization is key.

The price of a Weshi puppy can vary depending on the breeder, location, and lineage, but typically ranges from $500 to $1500.

Weshis are adaptable and can do well in apartments or houses, as long as they get sufficient exercise.

Yes, Weshis can be a good choice for first-time dog owners due to their friendly nature and moderate training needs, provided the owner is committed to consistent training and socialization.

Brush your Weshi several times a week, and consider professional grooming every few months, depending on their coat type.

Weshis can tolerate being alone for moderate periods, but they thrive on companionship. They shouldn't be left alone for excessively long periods regularly.

Feed your Weshi a high-quality, small-breed dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level.