Read About Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an alert and happy breed. Playful and friendly, they make great watchdogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick - Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium

2. Weight:

   21 -- 50 lbs

3. Coat:

   Long Coated

4. Shedding:

   Low Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Moderately Affectionate

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Good with Children

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Terrier; 1973

2. Size & Weight:

   17 -- 20 inches and 30 -- 45 lbs

3. Coat:

   Long coated puppies are born black but lighten to their wheaten color by two years of age.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   This terrier has a rectangular shaped head with a short and strong muzzle.

5. Body:

   A compact bodied breed, this dog has a deep chest and a strong and level back.

6. Colors:

   Born black, they reach their adult wheaten color around the age of two; their coat is soft, silky and wavy.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12 -- 15 years

8. Popularity:

   There is an increasing popularity within this breed, however, because it has been recent, you many have to call around to find a qualified breeder.

9. Habitat:

   This breed is good for apartment life and a small yard will do as they are moderately active; they do not tolerate heat well.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Ireland

2. Historical Information:

   This breed was originally used by farmers in Ireland to herd the animals and also as a hunter of small game. It is thought to be one of the oldest Irish breeds, however, its first public appearance was not until 1933.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Sweet-tempered, easy-going and self-confident, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an alert and happy dog.

2. Behavior:

   The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is playful and friendly. They are typically very good with children and other dogs as long as they have been properly socialized from an early age; they do not do well with cats.

3. Habits:

   Will bark at the arrival of guests and, though not typically aggressive, they can be combative with other male dogs if challenged.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   This breed is a relatively healthy one; they are, however, prone to flea allergies and protein wasting disease.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Moderate, regular exercise is sufficient for this breed.

3. Grooming Needs:

   To avoid a fuzzy looking coat, brush your Wheaten Terrier with a medium-toothed comb to keep its long coat free of tangles. Always clean its eyes and ears when necessary and bath as needed.

4. Travel Needs:

   Due to the size and energy of this breed, it is a good idea to secure them in a pet seat belt before traveling by car.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   If properly socialized from the beginning, the Wheaten Terrier should get along quite nicely with children and other pets; the exception to this rule is cats.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Healthy and bright eyes, energetic and a good, clean coat.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Puppy crate, training collar and lease, housebreaking materials.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   As always, it is a good idea to go through your home and pick up any loose objects that could be eaten by your puppy. "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" is a good rule of thumb to follow when bringing home your new companion.