Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you considering adding a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier to your family? If so, you’re in for a treat! This breed is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it an excellent choice for families with children or other pets. They are also highly adaptable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments. However, like any breed, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers have their own unique characteristics and needs that potential owners should be aware of before making a decision. Read on to learn more about this charming breed and what to expect as a pet owner.

Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: Ireland
Average Size:45-50 cm
Average Weight:16-20 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: High
Exercise Requirements:Moderate to High

History and Origin

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in Ireland. It is believed that the breed dates back to the 18th century, where it was used as a farm dog. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier was bred to be a versatile dog that could perform a variety of tasks, including hunting, herding, and guarding. The breed was also used as a companion dog, and it quickly became popular among Irish families.

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog that is known for its soft, silky coat. The breed’s coat is unique in that it does not shed, which makes it a good choice for people with allergies. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier’s coat is also hypoallergenic, which means that it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to dog hair.

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier was recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1937, and it was later recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973. Today, the breed is popular all over the world, and it is known for its friendly and outgoing personality. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is also a very intelligent breed, and it is known for its ability to learn quickly.

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a very active breed, and it requires a lot of exercise. The breed is known for its love of outdoor activities, and it enjoys running, playing, and exploring. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is also a very social breed, and it enjoys spending time with its family. The breed is known for its loyalty and devotion to its owners, and it makes a great family pet.

In conclusion, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a breed of dog that has a rich history and a unique personality. The breed’s soft, silky coat and hypoallergenic qualities make it a popular choice for people with allergies, and its friendly and outgoing personality make it a great family pet. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a breed that is loved all over the world, and it is sure to continue to be a popular choice for many years to come.

Size and Breed Category

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in Ireland. They are known for their soft, silky coat that comes in shades of wheaten, ranging from pale beige to rich golden. The breed is classified as a terrier, which means they were originally bred to hunt small game such as rats and rabbits. Despite their hunting background, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are also popular as family pets due to their friendly and affectionate nature. They are intelligent and trainable, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners.

In terms of size, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers typically weigh between 13-20 kg and stand at a height of 43-48 cm at the shoulder. They have a sturdy build with a square-shaped body and a broad head. Their ears are medium-sized and fold over, while their eyes are dark and expressive. The breed is known for their high energy levels and love of exercise, so they require regular walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a charming and lovable breed that makes a great addition to any household.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is typically long and silky, with a slight wave to it. The breed’s coat is single-layered, meaning it does not have an undercoat, and is therefore less likely to shed excessively. The fur is also hypoallergenic, making it a popular choice for those with allergies. The colour of the fur can range from a pale beige to a rich golden colour, with some dogs having darker tips on their fur. The fur on the face and ears is typically shorter and smoother than the rest of the body, giving the dog a distinctive look.

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier’s fur requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Brushing the fur at least once a week is recommended, and trimming the fur around the eyes and paws is also necessary. The breed’s fur can also be trimmed short for easier maintenance, although this is not recommended for show dogs. The colour of the fur can fade over time, especially if the dog is exposed to sunlight, so it is important to protect the dog’s fur from the sun. Overall, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier’s fur is one of its most distinctive features, and requires regular care to keep it looking healthy and beautiful.

Termperament and Trainability

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate temperament. They are highly sociable dogs that love to be around people and other animals. They are also very playful and energetic, making them great companions for families with children. However, they can be quite stubborn at times and may require firm and consistent training to ensure they behave appropriately. Despite this, they are generally easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. They are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, making them excellent watchdogs.

In terms of trainability, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn new commands and tricks. They are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, including apartments and houses with yards. However, they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They are also prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive if left alone for long periods of time. Therefore, it is important to provide them with plenty of attention and exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are a great choice for families looking for a friendly and trainable companion.

Known Health Conditions

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are prone to a number of health conditions, including protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), which is a condition that affects the digestive system. PLE can cause a range of symptoms, including weight loss, diarrhea, and vomiting. It occurs when the lining of the intestine becomes damaged, which can lead to the loss of protein and other important nutrients. Treatment for PLE typically involves a combination of medication and dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary. It is important for owners of Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers to be aware of the signs of PLE and to seek veterinary care if they suspect their dog may be affected.

Another health condition that Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are prone to is renal dysplasia, which is a congenital condition that affects the kidneys. Renal dysplasia can cause a range of symptoms, including increased thirst and urination, lethargy, and weight loss. It occurs when the kidneys do not develop properly in the womb, which can lead to a range of problems later in life. Treatment for renal dysplasia typically involves managing the symptoms and providing supportive care, although in some cases, surgery may be necessary. It is important for owners of Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers to be aware of the signs of renal dysplasia and to seek veterinary care if they suspect their dog may be affected.

Openness to Strangers

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature towards strangers. They are a breed that loves to socialize and make new friends, whether it be with humans or other dogs. This breed is not typically shy or reserved when meeting new people, and they often approach strangers with a wagging tail and a happy disposition. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are also known for their playful nature, which makes them great companions for children and adults alike. They are a breed that thrives on human interaction and attention, and they are always eager to please their owners.

When it comes to meeting new people, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are not typically aggressive or territorial. They are a breed that is known for their gentle and affectionate nature, and they are often described as being “people pleasers.” This breed is not typically suspicious of strangers, and they are often quick to make new friends. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them great candidates for obedience training and other activities that involve interacting with people. Overall, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are a breed that is known for their openness to strangers and their friendly, outgoing nature.

Playfulness Level

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a highly playful breed of dog that loves to engage in various activities. They are known for their energetic and lively nature, making them a great companion for families with children. These dogs have a high playfulness level and enjoy playing games such as fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek. They are also known to be great swimmers and love to splash around in the water.

In addition to their love for physical activities, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers also have a playful personality. They are known to be mischievous and enjoy playing pranks on their owners. They have a great sense of humor and love to make their owners laugh. These dogs are also very social and enjoy playing with other dogs and meeting new people. Their playful nature makes them a great addition to any household that is looking for a fun-loving and energetic companion.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are a friendly and affectionate breed that can make great pets for children. They are known for their playful and energetic nature, which makes them perfect for families with active kids. These dogs are also intelligent and easy to train, which means that they can be taught to behave well around children and other pets. Additionally, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers have a hypoallergenic coat, which makes them a good choice for families with allergies. Overall, this breed can be a great addition to any family looking for a loyal and loving pet.

Exercise Needs

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are a highly energetic breed that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium-sized breed, they require at least an hour of exercise each day, which can be achieved through a combination of walks, runs, and playtime. It is important to note that this breed has a high prey drive, so they should always be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area during exercise to prevent them from chasing after small animals.

In addition to physical exercise, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers also benefit from mental stimulation. This can be achieved through training sessions, interactive toys, and games that challenge their problem-solving skills. This breed is highly intelligent and thrives on learning new things, so incorporating training into their exercise routine can be a great way to keep them engaged and mentally stimulated. Overall, providing regular exercise and mental stimulation is essential for the health and happiness of Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers have a reputation for being friendly and sociable dogs. They tend to get along well with other pets, including cats and other dogs. However, as with any breed, early socialization and training are important to ensure that they learn appropriate behavior around other animals. It is also important to supervise interactions between pets to prevent any potential conflicts. Overall, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers can make great companions for other pets in the household.

Housing Requirements

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers require a living space that is suitable for their size and energy levels. They are an active breed that requires daily exercise, so a house with a garden or access to a nearby park is ideal. The garden should be securely fenced to prevent the dog from escaping and should be large enough for the dog to run around and play. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are also known for their love of digging, so it is important to provide them with a designated digging area to prevent them from ruining the garden. Inside the house, the dog should have a comfortable bed or crate to sleep in and access to fresh water at all times.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers also require regular grooming to maintain their distinctive coat. They should be brushed at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling. The breed is also prone to ear infections, so their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are intelligent and social dogs that thrive on human interaction, so they should not be left alone for long periods of time. If the owner works full-time, it is important to arrange for someone to check on the dog and provide them with exercise and company during the day. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are a loyal and affectionate breed that make great family pets for those who can provide them with the attention and care they require.

Summary

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers make great pets for active families who have plenty of time to devote to their furry friend. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, and their love for human companionship. With proper training and socialization, they can get along well with children and other pets. They require regular exercise and grooming to keep their coat in good condition. Overall, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a loyal and affectionate companion that can bring joy and laughter to any household.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Dog FAQS