Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Dog Breed Profile Information

Description: The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a height at the withers of 17 to 20 inches and a weight of 30 to 45 pounds, depending on the sex. The bitch is a little smaller than the dog. This dog has a long, single coat that is found in various shades of wheat. Puppies are born with dark fur, and the change to the lighter coat does not occur until the dog is about 2 years old. The tail of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can be left natural or amputated. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier will live from 12 to 15 years of age. This dog is also known as the Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Wheaten Terrier, and Wheaten.

History: Descended from the Irish Terrier and the Kerry Blue Terrier, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was a farm dog in Ireland. It is known to have been used there for over 200 years. Interestingly, the docked tail began as a tax exemption: if the tail was docked, the Wheaten was considered a working dog and was not subject to dog tax. This dog was a versatile farm dog, making a living killing vermin, herding herd animals, hunting, and guarding the home.

Temperament: The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a cheerful dog with an optimistic outlook on life. While not as aggressive as other terrier breeds, this dog will bark at a stranger and protect the family from him. El Trigo is very affectionate with his humans and loves to play with them. Children are fine with this dog and enjoy his company. The Wheaten should be socialized with cats when he is young, but will always exhibit hunting instincts when he is around small animals.

Health Issues – Although generally a healthy dog, the Wheaten can suffer from gastrointestinal ailments and eye problems. The most serious threats to this dog are two protein wasting diseases, one affecting the kidneys and the other affecting the intestines. Protein is lost from these organs and there is no cure for either condition.

Grooming: Since the Wheaten is single coated rather than double coated, it is easy to groom. This dog will only need to be brushed and combed two to three times a week. The Wheaten does not shed much and is considered hypoallergenic. The Wheaten’s teeth need to be brushed several times a week, and it’s a good idea to get the dog used to this while he’s still a puppy.

Living Conditions: As the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier bonds strongly with its human family, it is best when kept in the home where it can participate in family activities. This dog can live in an apartment since he has a calm character, but if he does, you have to give him a good walk every day. They will work part of their energy with the game inside. During hot weather, it may be a good idea to skip the walk, as the Wheaten does not adapt well to heat.