All about Wirehaired Pointing Poodle dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Wirehaired Pointing Poodle" Breed

Wirehaired Pointing Poodle Weight: Understanding Average SizeThe average weight for an adult Wirehaired Pointing Poodle typically ranges from 45 to 70 pounds. This hybrid breed, combining the German Wirehaired Pointer and Standard Poodle, inherits a sturdy and athletic build.When considering the healthy weight for a Wirehaired Pointing Poodle, it's important to note that males generally fall within the higher end of the spectrum, averaging 55-70 pounds, while females typically weigh between 45-60 pounds. Individual size can vary based on the specific genetics inherited from their parent breeds, bone structure, and overall conditioning.Potential adopters or buyers looking for specific size information should consider these ranges as a guide to the average size of a Wirehaired Pointing Poodle. Always consult with a veterinarian to ensure your Wirehaired Pointing Poodle maintains a healthy weight for their individual build and activity level.

Wirehaired Pointing Poodle Height: Unraveling the Average Size

• Gender: As with many breeds, male Wirehaired Pointing Poodles tend to be slightly taller and heavier than females. You might find males leaning towards the higher end of the 24-26 inch range, while females more commonly fall into the 22-24 inch category.
• Individual Genetics: The specific genetic contribution from each parent plays a significant role. If one parent was on the smaller side of its breed standard and the other on the larger side, the offspring's height can vary. Reputable breeders can often provide insight into the size of the parent dogs, which can give you a good indication of the potential adult size of their puppies.
• Nutrition and Health: Proper nutrition during puppyhood and good overall health throughout a dog's life can also impact their growth and final adult size.

For the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle, a designer breed, coat colors are primarily influenced by its parent breeds, the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Poodle. AKC recognized Wirehaired Pointing Poodle colors (via parent breeds) include a wide range.Common and accepted colors inherited from both parents are black, brown (often called liver or chocolate), and white. You'll also frequently see black and white parti, brown and white parti (liver and white), and roan patterns (black roan, liver roan), where white hairs are mixed in with the darker color. Grizzle (a mixture of black and reddish-brown hairs) and tan points (often seen as black and tan, or liver and tan) are also possible, particularly with the Pointer influence. Solid colors like cream and apricot are common Poodle contributions.Rare Wirehaired Pointing Poodle colors and exotic Wirehaired Pointing Poodle variations are also possible due to the vast Poodle gene pool. These might include silver, blue (a dilute black), and café au lait (a dilute brown). While stunning, these rarer colors like merle, brindle, or lilac are not typically recognized as standard by major kennel clubs for either parent breed and would be considered non-standard variations for the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle. The pricing for puppies can vary significantly based on these rare coat types and patterns. Always inquire with a reputable breeder about the specific color genetics and health clearances.

The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle personality is a delightful blend of its parent breeds, offering an intelligent, versatile, and devoted companion. These dogs are typically friendly and possess a charming, outgoing nature, making them excellent family pets. Their loyalty to their owners is profound, and they thrive on being an integral part of the household.In terms of sociability, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle generally gets along well with strangers once properly introduced and is often good with children, especially when raised together. Their high intelligence makes them trainable and responsive to gentle, consistent guidance. When it comes to behavior with other pets, they can coexist harmoniously, particularly if socialized from a young age.Due to their active heritage, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. While adaptable, they are generally not ideal for apartment living unless their owners are committed to providing significant daily outdoor activity and engagement. They crave companionship and can become bored or anxious if left alone for extended periods. Expect a playful, affectionate, and energetic dog that will thrive in a home that offers both physical activity and mental challenges.

Wirehaired Pointing Poodle Temperament: The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is a highly intelligent, active, and affectionate companion dog, blending the best traits of its German Wirehaired Pointer and Standard Poodle parents. They are generally very friendly and sociable, thriving on human interaction and often forming strong bonds with their families, showcasing remarkable loyalty. This breed is known for its eagerness to please, which, combined with their intelligence, makes them highly trainable, though some may exhibit a subtle independent streak or mild stubbornness characteristic of both parent breeds. They are not typically sensitive but respond best to positive reinforcement.

Wirehaired Pointing Poodle Care: Daily Maintenance & Health TipsThe Wirehaired Pointing Poodle, a cross between a German Wirehaired Pointer and a Standard Poodle, requires dedicated care to ensure a happy, healthy life. Understanding “Wirehaired Pointing Poodle care” is crucial for prospective owners.Grooming Needs: This breed’s unique coat, a blend of wiry and curly textures, demands regular attention. Expect brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is highly recommended for trimming and shaping, helping to manage shedding and maintain coat health. Some may require hand stripping to maintain the wire coat's texture.Exercise Limitations: Despite their Pointer lineage, Wirehaired Pointing Poodles are generally not a “low-energy dog breed.” They are intelligent and active, requiring at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise. This can include long walks, runs, fetch, swimming, or engaging in canine sports. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training sessions is equally important to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. While they enjoy activity, avoid overexertion, especially in extreme weather.Dietary Considerations: Feed a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations on portion control and suitable brands. Monitor their weight closely to prevent obesity, a common health concern.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: Wirehaired Pointing Poodles typically do not have prominent wrinkles, so “wrinkle cleaning” is generally not a concern. However, their floppy ears are prone to infections. Regular ear cleaning (weekly or bi-weekly) with a veterinarian-approved solution is essential to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth. Always dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing.Climate Sensitivity (Brachycephalic Anatomy): Importantly, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is NOT a brachycephalic breed. Neither parent breed (German Wirehaired Pointer nor Standard Poodle) is brachycephalic. Therefore, concerns regarding “climate sensitivity due to brachycephalic anatomy” are irrelevant for this cross. They are generally adaptable but should not be left unattended in extreme heat or cold.Common Health Concerns & “How to Care for a Wirehaired Pointing Poodle” to address them:* Skin Issues: Due to their diverse coat types, they can be prone to skin allergies or hot spots. Regular grooming and a balanced diet can help. Consult a vet for any persistent itching or skin irritation.* Dental Care: Daily dental hygiene, including brushing teeth, is vital to prevent dental disease. Provide appropriate chew toys and consider professional dental cleanings as recommended by your vet.* Weight Management: Monitor food intake and ensure sufficient exercise to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate other health problems.* Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Like many larger breeds, they can be predisposed to these conditions. Responsible breeders screen their dogs. Maintain a healthy weight and avoid high-impact activities in puppies.* Eye Conditions: Be aware of potential eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect these early.By following these “daily maintenance” tips and understanding common “health tips for Wirehaired Pointing Poodle,” you can provide excellent care for this intelligent and active companion.

Wirehaired Pointing Poodle Activity Level: This intelligent and athletic hybrid balances the German Wirehaired Pointer's drive with the Standard Poodle's energy, resulting in a moderately active to high-energy companion. They typically exhibit short bursts of enthusiastic activity followed by periods of rest.

I would rate the "Size" trait of the "Wirehaired Pointing Poodle" a 7 out of 10.This rating places it firmly in the medium-to-large category. The German Wirehaired Pointer is a substantial, athletic hunting dog, typically standing 22-26 inches tall and weighing 60-70 pounds. The Standard Poodle is also a well-built dog, generally 20-25 inches tall and weighing 45-70 pounds. Combining these two breeds means their offspring will inherit genes for a significant physical presence. While there might be some variation, a Wirehaired Pointing Poodle will likely be a sturdy, active dog, probably averaging around 20-24 inches in height and 50-65 pounds in weight. They will have a robust body structure suited for activity and endurance.Given this size, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is not ideally suited for apartment living or households with severe space constraints. While they could adapt to an apartment if given ample daily exercise, their size and energy levels truly benefit from a larger home with a yard. They would be challenging for frequent travel due to their dimensions, requiring significant space in a vehicle or a larger crate for air travel. They are best suited for active households with sufficient living space, where they can stretch out and engage in their natural inclination for exercise and exploration.

Rating: 8Explanation: The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle, a mix of a German Wirehaired Pointer and a Standard Poodle, will likely have grooming requirements that lean heavily towards the high-maintenance end. Both parent breeds contribute to this. The German Wirehaired Pointer has a dense, wiry, double coat that requires regular hand-stripping to remove dead hair and maintain its texture, in addition to weekly brushing to prevent matting. Poodles, on the other hand, are famous for their continuously growing, non-shedding coats that must be professionally clipped every 4-8 weeks to prevent severe matting and skin irritation. While the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle might not shed much (inheriting from the Poodle), the likelihood of a dense, potentially wiry yet curly coat means it will be highly prone to matting if not brushed frequently, potentially daily, and require professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for clipping. Ear cleaning will be crucial due to the floppy ears (from both parents) which can trap moisture and debris, and nail trimming will be standard for all breeds, typically every 2-4 weeks. Bathing will be needed periodically to keep the coat clean, but the focus will be on brushing and professional trims. While skin folds are not a major concern, the dense coat can hide skin issues if not properly maintained. Compared to many other companion dogs, this breed will require frequent and specialized grooming (either by an owner skilled in stripping/clipping or a professional groomer) to keep its coat healthy and comfortable, making it far from an easy-to-care-for breed.

I'd rate the "Exercise Requirements" of the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle a 9 out of 10.This breed inherits a significant drive and energy from both its parent breeds. The German Wirehaired Pointer is a robust, athletic hunting dog known for its endurance and need for extensive daily activity, often requiring several hours of vigorous exercise. The Standard Poodle, while elegant, is also a highly intelligent and energetic dog that thrives on mental and physical engagement, and can easily keep up with, if not outpace, many other breeds. Consequently, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle will likely be a very active dog that requires substantial daily exercise to remain healthy, happy, and well-behaved. They will thrive on structured routines that include not just long walks, but also jogging, hiking, swimming, and various dog sports like agility, flyball, or scent work. Their high energy levels and intelligence mean they need more than just a short potter around the block; they need purposeful activity that challenges both their body and their mind to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They are built for sustained movement and would likely excel in environments where they can run freely and explore, making them unsuitable for sedentary lifestyles.

The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle would likely rate a 7 out of 10 for watchdog ability.This rating stems from the combined traits of its parent breeds. The German Wirehaired Pointer brings a degree of alertness, a strong prey drive that can translate into territorial awareness, and a robust bark. They are naturally watchful and will typically alert their owners to anything unusual. The Standard Poodle, while often perceived as elegant, is surprisingly intelligent and perceptive, making them quite good at noticing changes in their environment. They are known to be vocal, especially when they perceive a threat or something out of place. This combination suggests a dog that will be alert to unfamiliar sounds and people, and will likely use its bark to signal an alert. They are less likely to be aggressively protective in the manner of a dedicated guardian breed, but their territorial instincts would be strong enough to make them vocal deterrents. They'd provide meaningful early warnings, acting as a "doorbell" and a strong vocal presence, rather than a physical deterrent. They are more than a passive companion in this regard, offering a valuable layer of awareness for the household.

The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle rates an 8 out of 10 for "Good with Other Dogs."This hybrid generally inherits a very sociable and amiable nature from both parent breeds. The German Wirehaired Pointer, while possessing a strong prey drive, is typically not aggressive towards other dogs and often enjoys canine companionship, especially when well-exercised. The Poodle, particularly the Standard, is renowned for its intelligence, gentle disposition, and often, its ability to integrate well into various social structures.As a result, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is likely to be highly adaptable and enjoy the company of other dogs. They tend to be playful and tolerant, compatible with dogs of different sizes and energy levels, particularly if introduced properly during puppyhood. While their hunting instincts mean they might be highly engaged in outdoor activities, this usually translates to a desire to "work" or play alongside other dogs rather than exhibiting dominance or aggression. They thrive in canine company and are generally well-suited for multi-dog households, though as with any intelligent and active breed, early socialization and consistent training will ensure they remain polite and well-adjusted members of the pack. Careful introductions are always beneficial, but they typically adapt peacefully and happily to new doggy friends.

Rating: 8The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is likely to possess a high energy level, warranting an 8. This is primarily due to the genetic contributions of both parent breeds. The German Wirehaired Pointer is a robust and tireless hunting dog, bred for endurance, extensive fieldwork, and a strong drive to retrieve. They are naturally active, require significant physical stimulation, and excel in strenuous outdoor and athletic activities. The Standard Poodle, while often perceived as elegant and refined, is also an incredibly intelligent and active breed with a history as a water retriever. They are playful, enjoy engaging activities, and possess good stamina.Therefore, a Wirehaired Pointing Poodle will almost certainly be an energetic and enthusiastic companion. They will need a substantial amount of daily exercise, including vigorous walks, runs, hikes, and engaging play sessions to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Their endurance will likely be excellent, making them well-suited for active families and individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures. This breed will be far from laid-back and will thrive when given a "job" to do, whether that's advanced obedience, agility, or scent work.It's important to note that the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle does *not* possess brachycephalic anatomy. Both the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Standard Poodle have long muzzles, which contribute to their excellent stamina and ability to breathe efficiently during strenuous exercise. This lack of brachycephaly means they will not experience the respiratory limitations or exercise intolerance often seen in flat-faced breeds, allowing them to fully utilize their high energy and athleticism.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle as a 7.This breed, a mix of the intelligent and trainable Poodle and the driven and purposeful German Wirehaired Pointer, will likely be a bright and capable learner. However, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle will inherit the active mind and strong prey drive of both parents, particularly the Pointer, meaning they won't be content with minimal mental stimulation. While intelligent and capable of learning complex commands, they can also possess a degree of stubbornness, especially if they perceive a task as less interesting than something else, like a scent in the wind. Their attention span will likely be good for engaging activities, but will wane if training becomes repetitive or dull. Responsiveness to commands will be high with consistent, positive reinforcement, but they will certainly test boundaries if given the chance. Therefore, a high degree of consistency is absolutely essential to prevent undesirable habits from forming.This breed is generally not beginner-friendly without a strong commitment to learning and implementing structured routines. While a novice can succeed, they would need to be highly dedicated, perhaps working with a professional trainer. These dogs thrive on purpose and consistent, engaging training, making them better suited for owners with some experience in dog training or those prepared to invest significant time and effort into understanding and meeting their needs. They will require not just obedience training, but also mental challenges and an outlet for their likely strong desire to work.

I'd rate the "Playful" trait of the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle a solid 9/10. This breed combines the Poodle's renowned intelligence and zest for life with the German Wirehaired Pointer's tireless energy and strong prey drive, both of which translate into an enthusiastic and interactive companion. They are naturally spirited and delight in games, whether it's a vigorous fetch session, a challenging puzzle toy, or a good old-fashioned romp in the yard. Their desire for engagement and their quick wit often lead to amusing attention-seeking behaviors, and they thrive on being an active participant in family life. Compared to many companion dogs, they are definitely on the more energetic and fun-loving end of the spectrum, requiring ample mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and channel their considerable enthusiasm.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle a 9 out of 10.This hybrid breed is likely to be extremely loving and people-oriented, thriving on affection and human companionship. Both parent breeds, the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Standard Poodle, are known for their devotion to their families. The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle will almost certainly exhibit a strong desire for physical closeness, enjoying cuddling, lap-sitting (despite their size), and generally being near their owners. Their loyalty will be unwavering, and they are likely to be quite sensitive to owner emotions, offering comfort and support. Expect them to follow family members from room to room, always wanting to be part of the action. While intelligent and capable of independent thought, this breed will be far from emotionally distant and will genuinely thrive on the deep bond they form with their human family, making them less independent and more dependent on interaction compared to some other companion dogs.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a generally positive outlook, but with important nuances. Both parent breeds, the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Standard Poodle, are intelligent and capable of forming strong bonds. Standard Poodles are generally known for their amiable nature and tend to be quite adaptable in multi-pet households, often getting along well with other dogs and even cats, especially if introduced early. They can be playful and enjoy the company of other animals. However, the German Wirehaired Pointer brings a strong hunting heritage to the mix. This breed possesses a higher prey drive and a more intense focus on scent and pursuit. While they can coexist peacefully with other pets, especially other dogs, their prey drive can be a significant factor when it comes to smaller, prey-like animals such as cats or small rodents.Therefore, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is likely to be naturally sociable with other dogs, often enjoying play and companionship. With proper early socialization and training, they can absolutely learn to coexist peacefully with cats. However, their inherited prey drive means that initial introductions and ongoing supervision, particularly with cats and very small pets, are crucial. They aren't inherently aggressive towards other pets, but their instincts need to be managed and redirected through consistent training. Resource guarding is not typically a prominent issue in either parent breed, though individual temperament and training always play a role. Ultimately, while they are not a breed that is universally incompatible with other pets, their potential for a higher prey drive necessitates dedicated socialization and responsible ownership to ensure a truly harmonious multi-pet household.

Rating: 8/10The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle, blending the German Wirehaired Pointer's robust and often patient nature with the Standard Poodle's intelligence, trainability, and affectionate disposition, generally makes for a very good family dog. They tend to be playful and energetic, which is a great match for active children, and their intelligence means they can be taught appropriate manners and boundaries around kids. The Standard Poodle lineage often contributes to a gentle and tolerant nature, and while the German Wirehaired Pointer can be strong-willed, they are also typically loyal and devoted to their families. They are generally patient and can handle the usual noise and bustling of a household with children. However, like all breeds, early socialization and consistent training are key to ensuring they are respectful and well-behaved around children. Supervision, especially with very young children, is always recommended to teach both the dog and the child how to interact safely and respectfully. They are naturally affectionate but thrive best in a structured environment where they understand their place and expectations.

The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle rates an 8 for "Good with Strangers." This breed typically inherits a friendly and sociable disposition from both parent breeds. They are generally welcoming and curious around new people, rather than reserved or timid. While their Pointer lineage might lend a watchful eye, they are not typically prone to excessive barking or guarding against unfamiliar adults; instead, they are more likely to greet guests with enthusiasm. Their Poodle heritage contributes to their adaptability, making them comfortable and relatively unfazed in public or guest-filled environments, provided they receive proper early socialization. While naturally outgoing, consistent positive exposure to various people during puppyhood will further reinforce their comfort and confidence, ensuring they remain polite and well-adjusted with all strangers.

I'd rate the "Wirehaired Pointing Poodle" a 7 for winter tolerance.While they inherit the Poodle's typically good insulation and the German Wirehaired Pointer's dense, protective wire coat, which offers excellent resistance to the elements, their overall cold tolerance is still a step below breeds specifically bred for extreme Arctic conditions. The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle benefits from a good amount of body fat and a robust, athletic build, allowing them to generate and retain warmth during activity. Their non-brachycephalic snout is also a significant advantage, preventing respiratory difficulties in cold, dry air. They can safely and enthusiastically enjoy outdoor activities in cold climates, including snow and ice, for extended periods. However, like most dogs, prolonged inactivity in very frigid temperatures, especially below freezing, would still warrant caution. Compared to many shorter-coated or smaller companion dogs, they require less special care in winter. They won't need sweaters for typical walks and are far less prone to hypothermia than breeds like Chihuahuas or Greyhounds. Nevertheless, owners should still be mindful of extreme wind chills, icy paw pads, and the potential for frostbite on exposed areas during prolonged exposure in truly severe conditions, just as they would with any active dog.

The "Wirehaired Pointing Poodle" would likely rate around a 6 for summer tolerance.While neither parent breed is brachycephalic, the Poodle's dense, curly coat, though single-layered, can trap heat if not properly groomed. The German Wirehaired Pointer's wiry coat offers some protection but can still become warm. These dogs are athletic and active, with a good ability to regulate body temperature through panting. However, their active nature also means they are more prone to overexertion in the heat. They are not as susceptible to heatstroke as brachycephalic breeds, but their need for regular exercise means owners must be vigilant. In summer, they would require special care similar to many active companion dogs: avoiding peak heat hours for exercise, providing ample water and shade, and potentially considering a shorter "summer cut" for the Poodle side of their coat. They generally don't require constant climate control but shouldn't be left outdoors in extreme heat without supervision.

I'd rate the "Healthiness" trait of the "Wirehaired Pointing Poodle" a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a generally robust dog, leaning towards the healthier side compared to many purebreds, but not without some considerations. The hybrid vigor, or "heterosis," from crossing two distinct breeds often results in a healthier offspring than either parent breed alone, as it can reduce the likelihood of inheriting recessive genes for specific diseases that might be common in one lineage.However, both parent breeds contribute their own potential health concerns. German Wirehaired Pointers can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, von Willebrand's disease, and certain eye conditions. Poodles (Standard) are also susceptible to hip dysplasia, bloat, Addison's disease, sebaceous adenitis, and some eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy. Therefore, a Wirehaired Pointing Poodle can still inherit these predispositions, though the risk for any single condition might be lower.Responsible breeding practices are crucial. Breeders who health-test their parent dogs for these common ailments significantly contribute to the health of the puppies. Life expectancy for this cross is likely to be similar to its parent breeds, around 10-14 years, which is good for a dog of its size.Overall, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is generally considered a robust breed. While not entirely free from potential health issues, they are not typically considered high-maintenance in terms of specific, ongoing medical conditions like some brachycephalic breeds, and with good breeding and preventive care, they tend to live long, healthy lives.

Rating: 7/10The Wirehaired Pointing Poodle, a mix of the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Standard Poodle, would likely possess a commendable degree of protectiveness. Both parent breeds contribute to this trait. The German Wirehaired Pointer, originally bred for hunting, exhibits strong alertness and a watchful nature, readily noticing anything out of the ordinary. The Standard Poodle, while often perceived as elegant, is historically a highly intelligent and attentive dog with a surprising capacity for protectiveness towards its family.This hybrid would likely be very loyal to its owners, a hallmark of both parent breeds, and this loyalty often translates into a desire to keep them safe. They would likely be quite alert and vocal, making them excellent watchdogs that will certainly make their presence known when a stranger approaches. Their territorial instincts would be moderate to strong; they would defend their home and family, but not to an aggressive or uncontrolled degree. While they might be wary or reserved with strangers initially, they are generally not prone to unprovoked aggression.While not typically considered a dedicated "guard dog" in the sense of a Rottweiler or German Shepherd, the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle's size, intelligence, vocal nature, and inherent loyalty would certainly make them capable of offering meaningful protection in a household setting. Their presence alone would be a deterrent, and their willingness to alert and stand between their family and a perceived threat would be substantial. They are more than just a companion dog; they possess the qualities to be a vigilant protector without being overly aggressive.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the "Wirehaired Pointing Poodle" a 7 out of 10.This breed is generally considered to have an average to above-average lifespan compared to other companion dogs. The German Wirehaired Pointer typically lives for 12-14 years, and the Standard Poodle, known for its longevity, often lives 10-18 years, with many reaching the higher end of that range. This combination bodes well for the Wirehaired Pointing Poodle. While they can inherit some health predispositions from both parent breeds (such as bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions), responsible breeding practices focusing on genetic health screening can significantly mitigate these risks. With proper care, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care, a Wirehaired Pointing Poodle is likely to live a long and healthy life, often reaching 12-15 years, and sometimes even longer.