SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER
Breed Group: Terrier
For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club
Average height: 44 - 49 cms (17 - 19 in)
Average Weight: 14 - 21 kgs (30 - 47 lbs)
Coat Length: Varies
Life Span: 12 - 15 years
Colours: wheaten
HISTORY
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was originally an Irish crofting dog typically used for killing vermin and other jobs on the farm. The Wheaten's skills included hunting badgers and otters, plus they could work stock and had a mouth soft enough to retrieve game. The Wheaten is believed to have been in existence for at least two hundred years (this is inferred by references to 'soft coated' dogs), however, the breed nearly became extinct. In 1932, a group of enthusiasts in Ireland decided to get the breed recognized, but it wasn't until 1937 that the breed was officially recognized by the Irish Kennel Club.
L.E.G.S.
Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.
Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.
Shedding
minimal <> considerable
Grooming
minimal <> likely to need professional grooming
Barking
relatively quiet <> very vocal
Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock
low<>high
Response to strangers
happy to greet everyone <> very wary
Affectionate with family
not at all<>very cuddly
Playful
serious<>very playful
Focus on handler (bond)
independent thinker<>very biddable
Excitable/Impulsive
very calm<>easily aroused
Motivated
laid back<>obsessive
Easy to care for
suitable for inexperienced<>challenging
Exercise needs
minimal<>hours daily
Off-lead exercise needs
happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom
Enrichment needs
basic<>needs challenges
WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER
- They have a human sense of humor so don't laugh at something they do (like de-stuffing a sofa) if you don't want it repeated!
- They are total clowns
- They are wrapped in the softest fur
- They will often bond with a whole family rather than an individual
WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH
- They are the second-largest terrier
- They are very smart independent thinkers, so you need to make your ideas their idea in the first place
- Some genetics can result in sharpness
- During the first couple of years, they require a lot of coat maintenance, especially if you don't want a yak
- They can be dependent and clingy
YOUR SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS
Once you've had a Wheaten no other breed will really measure up (that soft fur curls right around your heart). They will, given the opportunity, try and get away with murder and they have the power to do it don't be fooled by their looks that you have a cute teddy bear. This is a big Terrier. If you don't provide good learning opportunities they will invent their own entertainment. They do not appreciate heavy handedness. Work with them and motivate them and they will try so very hard to please and entertain resulting in an amazing bond with you. Teaching a 'settle' and 'not yet' cue, and super thick clothing (puppy shark teeth) can help you remain sane.
YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:
- Loose-leash walking
- Reactivity
- Genetic health issues
YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY
- You will need to have a very good sense of humor and gauntlets for the puppy stage
- You should have the desire to work with the dog in front of you and learn their motivations
- An investment in grooming supplies and good food will be important
UPBRINGING
They are super quick and smart learners and will often develop their own games if not suitably engaged. Good management is crucial when they are young as well as teaching an off-switch, playing the trade game, and providing opportunities to chew as puppies. Their motivation can change throughout the day.
LIFESTYLE
After a bit of mental stimulation, they will curl up on the sofa to watch a film. On other days, they will want to climb mountains.
INTERESTS & HOBBIES
They enjoy doing everything. Wheaten Terriers were an all-round farm hand and could bring you dinner.
EDUCATION
They appear to have a devil-may-care attitude to the uninitiated, but most Wheatens are very gooey on the inside. With the right motivation they can learn virtually anything.
