Soft coated Wheaten Terrier

Wheaten Terrier

Originally from Ireland, where they were bred as farm dogs and used for herding, guarding and some vermin hunting, Wheaton Terriers have since evolved into the prototypical shaggy dog: lovable, goofy and full of life.

This breed was formerly known as the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier.

Personality

Considered the friendliest of terrier breeds; bred predominantly for farm chores rather than more aggressive tasks
Social, mischievous and always the life of the party

Size

35-45 pounds
17-19 inches at the withers (shoulders)

Lifestyle

One of the more high-maintenance breeds; requires an owner willing to make both a time and exercise commitment
A bit too rowdy for small children or elderly adults, but can thrive in a home with older children, where they make a great playmate
Not only like to be included in family activities but demand it; if left alone too often or too long, they will create plenty of mischief
Good in either the city or country, as long as they are properly exercised
Alert dogs that make fine watchdogs; will bark at strangers and new guest, but won’t bark without reason

Training

Has typical Terrier stubbornness and does not rejoice for obedience
For best results with basic commands, try a short, lively, reward-based training approach
Early socialization will neutralize any aggressive or bossy traits

Exercise

Need a daily hour of on-leash walking
These social, playful fellows bring life to the party at the dog park
Their chase instinct is always ready, so off-leash play should be in a fenced-in, secured area

Coat

Colors are generally in the tan family, ranging from light wheat to apricot, with the muzzle and ears darker in color
Soft and shaggy; while it doesn’t shed, it easily tangles and mats
Daily grooming is recommended to keep it healthy, with careful attention to the undercoat, where tangles lurk
Bi-monthly professional grooming will keep it in great shape
Hair above the eyes should be clipped to prevent vision impairment
Puppies are born dark and lighten as time goes by; some Wheatens take 15-24 months to reach their true color
An interesting trait is that should they lose hair in an injury, the hair will grow back in the darker color of their puppy years and then lighten to their adult color
Wheaten coats are considered hypoallergenic and good for those with allergies or asthma

Health

Can be genetically prone to kidney disorders, hip dysplasia and an intolerance to anesthesia
Inclined to flea allergies

Lifespan

13-15 years

Rescue

Visit the Soft Coated Wheaten Club of America for more information or to find rescue group information.

PHOTO: PickStock

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