The Weston is a charming mixed breed dog resulting from the crossbreeding of a Coton de Tulear and a West Highland White Terrier. This hybrid combines the gentle, playful nature of the Coton de Tulear with the bold, confident personality of the Westie. Westons are generally small to medium-sized dogs with a fluffy white coat, making them an adorable and cuddly companion for families and individuals alike.
Key Facts
- Size: Small to medium
- Weight: 12-20 pounds (5.4-9.1 kg)
- Height: 9-12 inches (23-30 cm)
- Coat: Long, soft, and fluffy
- Color: Predominantly white, may have light markings
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Temperament: Friendly, playful, and affectionate
- Good with children: Yes
- Good with other pets: Generally yes, with proper socialization
- Trainability: Moderate to high
- Exercise needs: Moderate
- Grooming requirements: High
Character Traits
Westons inherit a delightful blend of personality traits from their parent breeds. They are typically friendly, affectionate, and playful dogs that form strong bonds with their families. These mixed breed dogs often display the Coton de Tulear’s gentle and clownish nature, combined with the Westie’s confident and spirited personality. Westons are generally good with children and can get along well with other pets when properly socialized.
These dogs are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, which can make them relatively easy to train. However, they may also inherit some stubbornness from the Westie side, requiring patience and consistency in training. Westons are often alert and may have a tendency to bark, making them good watchdogs despite their small size. They thrive on human companionship and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Westons typically have a moderate energy level, enjoying both playtime and cuddle sessions with their owners. They can adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards, as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Their friendly and sociable nature makes them excellent companions for singles, couples, and families alike.
History & Origins
The Weston is a relatively new mixed breed, and as such, there is limited information about its specific origins. To understand this hybrid, it’s essential to look at the history of its parent breeds: the Coton de Tulear and the West Highland White Terrier.
The Coton de Tulear originated in Madagascar, where it was developed as a companion dog for the island’s nobility. These dogs are believed to have descended from small white dogs that survived a shipwreck near the island. The breed was named after the city of Tulear and for its cotton-like coat. Cotons were recognized by the FCI in 1970 and later by other major kennel clubs.
The West Highland White Terrier, commonly known as the Westie, hails from Scotland. They were originally bred for hunting small game and vermin. The breed’s development is credited to Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch, who wanted to create a white terrier that could be easily distinguished from prey during hunts. Westies were first shown in 1896 and gained popularity as both working dogs and companions.
The intentional crossing of these two breeds to create the Weston likely began in recent decades, as designer dogs became more popular. Breeders may have aimed to combine the Coton’s gentle temperament with the Westie’s hardy constitution and confident personality. However, as with many mixed breeds, the exact timeline and motivation for creating Westons are not well-documented.
Health Concerns
The Weston, a mix between a Coton de Tulear and West Highland White Terrier, may inherit health issues common to both parent breeds. Potential concerns include:
- Patellar luxation
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems (e.g., cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy)
- Skin allergies
- Legg-Calv��-Perthes disease
Regular veterinary check-ups, proper diet, and exercise can help mitigate some of these risks. It’s important to obtain health clearances from both parent breeds when acquiring a Weston puppy. Dental care is also crucial, as small breeds are prone to dental issues.
Exercise Needs
Westons have moderate exercise requirements, reflecting the energy levels of both parent breeds. They typically need:
- 30-60 minutes of daily exercise
- A mix of walks, playtime, and mental stimulation
- Interactive toys and games to keep them engaged
These dogs enjoy outdoor activities but can adapt to indoor play when necessary. Regular exercise helps prevent obesity and behavioral issues stemming from boredom. While they have bursts of energy, Westons are generally not high-endurance dogs and prefer shorter, more frequent activity sessions.
Space Requirements
Westons are adaptable dogs that can thrive in various living situations. Their space requirements include:
- Suitable for apartment living due to their small size
- Benefit from a small yard but not essential
- Need indoor space for play and relaxation
- Appreciate a dedicated sleeping area
While they can adapt to smaller spaces, Westons still need regular outdoor excursions for exercise and mental stimulation. They do well in both urban and suburban environments, provided they receive adequate attention and exercise. A secure area for outdoor play is beneficial but not mandatory.
Nutrition & Feeding
Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of Westons. Key feeding considerations include:
- High-quality, small-breed dog food appropriate for their age and activity level
- Portion control to prevent obesity, common in small breeds
- Feeding schedule of 2-3 small meals per day
- Fresh water available at all times
Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your Weston, as nutritional needs may vary based on age, weight, and health status. Avoid overfeeding and limit treats to maintain a healthy weight. Some Westons may have food sensitivities inherited from their parent breeds, so monitor for any adverse reactions to new foods.
Grooming Tips
The Weston, a mix of Coton de Tulear and West Highland White Terrier, typically has a long, soft, and dense coat that requires regular grooming. Brush your Weston’s coat 3-4 times a week using a slicker brush or pin brush to prevent matting and tangling. Pay extra attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. Bathe your Weston every 4-6 weeks or as needed, using a gentle dog shampoo suitable for their coat type.
Regular teeth brushing, at least 2-3 times a week, is essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Trim your dog’s nails every 2-3 weeks or as needed, and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections. Check and clean the facial area daily, as both parent breeds are prone to tear staining. Consider professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a thorough coat trim and maintenance.
Training Approach
The Weston is generally an intelligent and eager-to-please breed, making them relatively easy to train. Start training and socialization early, ideally between 8-16 weeks of age. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and play, to motivate and reward good behavior. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and frequent to maintain their interest and prevent boredom.
Be patient and consistent in your training approach, as both parent breeds can be somewhat stubborn at times. Focus on basic obedience commands, house training, and leash manners. Incorporate mental stimulation exercises, such as puzzle toys and interactive games, to keep their minds engaged. Socialization is crucial for this mix, so expose your Weston to various people, animals, and environments from a young age to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults.
Address any tendency towards excessive barking early on, as both parent breeds can be vocal. Use positive interruption techniques and reward quiet behavior. Remember that each Weston may inherit different traits from their parent breeds, so tailor your training approach to suit your individual dog’s personality and needs.
