Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1973
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Size: Medium
- Energy Level: Medium - High
- Recommended Crate Size: 36" dog crate*
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Table of Contents
Introduction
Historically, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dogs, or Wheaties, were owned by the poorer classes in Ireland.
Their versatility helps a lot in their jobs as a farm dog like ridding the property of vermin, helping guard against intruders, as well as doing a little hunting. It has a strong prey drive.
The Wheaten Terrier is believed to share a common ancestor with the Irish Terrier and Kerry Blue Terrier. Their actual origination cannot be found in any printed records.
Common health problems are renal dysplasia, Addison's disease, protein-losing enteropathy, and protein-losing nephropathy.
Breed
Even with its long history, the Irish Kennel Club only formally recognized this breed in 1937!
The Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers were imported into the United States by Lydia Vogel during the 1940s.
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier in 1973.
The Wheaten Terrier is currently ranked by AKC as the 50th most popular breed in the US.
These medium to high energy dogs are known as deeply devoted, friendly, happy, and stubborn.
They are known for barking loudly but are a friendly breed. Leaving them with kids is okay since they love small children.
They have a keeper instinct. They like to chase small creatures they might find and prefer to be outside. They have to be raised firmly yet loved as your family member.
Appearance
The Wheaten Terriers weigh between 30 to 40 pounds and are 17-19 inches in height, with females being slightly smaller than males.
This medium dog breed standard has a unique look with its wavy, soft, and silky coat. As their name suggests, they only come in one color which is wheat, without any markings.
The Wheaten Terriers coat color ranges from pale beige to shimmering gold, you might sometimes find red, white, or black hair in their muzzle and ears though. Common first impressions of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers: alert, happy, and strong.
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide dog food formulated to 30 to 40 lbs intermediate-sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog food needs with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure good dog health, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
The Wheaten Terriers have no undercoat since they have a single coat, they only shed a little and seasonally. Brush to remove any loose hair.
Even they are believed to be a hypoallergenic dog breed, remember that there is no 100% non-allergenic dog. Bathe and groom your Wheaten when it is necessary.
About 15 minutes of combing approximately three times a week are more than enough to have them maintain their best look.
Brush their teeth two or three times a week, trim their nails once or twice a month, and check their ears weekly to avoid any infection or undesirable problems.
Exercise
As working dogs, they are easily trained and learn quickly when being introduced to new things. This is thanks to their high level of intelligence.
This Wheaten Terrier will often jump on you or cuddle you when they see you since they are happy dogs.
Give at least 30 minutes of daily exercise to keep them healthy and fit. Ideal physical activities include walking, jogging, or chasing the frisbee.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends 36" dog crates* for most adult Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Dogs.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.
