The Weeranian, the name by which we know the breed, is actually a hybrid dog whose parent breeds were of the West Highland White Terrier and the Pomeranian. And nature blessed us with yet another cute breed.
A small dog standing roughly at less than a foot tall, once fully grown, Weeranian weighs about fifteen pounds. Their pet parents describe them as sweet and cheerful little dogs. They have soft, curly and long fur. If you keep a Weeranian pet, it is important to groom them timely to maintain the shine and health of their coat.
They love the company of children, seniors, and families alike. Whether you live in a fenced or unfenced home in the countryside or an apartment, Weeranians can make a joyful addition to your family.
The Weeranian is a comparatively newer hybrid westie breed. While reliable sources regarding the history of the Weeranians are comparatively harder to find, a study of the parent breeds has helped gain insights about their origin.
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westies, as we know them, hail from amongst the terrier breeds belonging to Scotland. Initially, all Terriers were classified as one breed, but now they are recognized based on their different characteristics. The Westies were originally bred for hunting vermin, foxes, and badgers.
Looking at their other parent, Pomeranians have traditionally been one very popular dog breed. Everyone from Sir Issac Newton to the church reformer Martin Luther, all owned a Pomeranian once during their lifetimes. The Pomeranian was also popular with the nobility. Reportedly, Queen Victoria used to own several Pomeranians, and it is often believed that she helped in developing the Pomeranian into the small dogs that they are today.
The Weeranian is a small breed. Weighing at no more than fourteen or fifteen pounds during maturity. Once fully grown, they would stand at max eleven inches in height. Their female counterparts are slightly smaller than males.
They generally have long hair, either curly or straight. Weeranians have a coat color that is inherited largely from the dominant side of their parent breeds; they can be white, red, black, tan, or brown in color. They also have a mix of medium to long hair on their face, especially around the eyes.
They have an erect pair of ears, and a straight tail generally of medium length. They tend to have long hair on their tails as well. On average, the Weeanian breed has short legs, with small and delicate feet.
The Weeranian can stay healthy with a moderate amount of maintenance. Their long hair is prone to get rush matting if not brushed regularly. Weekly brushing is good to remove dead skin cells(dander) and hair. Their “ruff” needs careful attention while brushing so that it doesn’t get tangled.
Their bathing schedule can vary from every six to eight weeks. An all-natural shampoo works magic on them to avoid any skin irritation issues. Other common maintenance practices for Weeranians include brushing their teeth two to three times a week in order to prevent foul breath. This is advisable to prevent tooth decay.
For nail health, it is important to trim their nails every two to three weeks. If their feet make clicking sounds as they walk, it is perhaps time to trim the nails.