Create Your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier's Shop
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Breed Summary
Laid-back, Affectionate, Playful, Intelligent and Spirited
These doggies originate from Ireland and were bred originally to hunt down vermin as well as guarding farms in harsh weather and terrain. As a result, these dogs are very robust and have carried these traits on even today!
Additionally, they are extremely fun-loving and affectionate doggies who make wonderful family pets, mainly as they love 'hoomans' so much and thrive in a home environment. They also remain puppy-like through most of their lives as they mature at a later date!
Fun Fact: A Wheaten Terrier called Krista made it in the top twenty best diving dogs in the Country. She jumped over ten feet into the water!
Kennel Club Group | Terrier |
Lifespan | 12 - 15 Years |
Height (at the withers) | Males 45cm - 50cm, Females 43cm - 46cm |
Weight | Males 14kg - 20kg, Females 14kg - 16kg |
Coat | Their Coats are Silky, Soft and are Either Wavy or Curly |
Colour | Blonde, Brown, Wheaten |
Eye colour | Dark Hazel |
Common health issues | Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Cataracts, Retinal dysplasia (retinal folds), Renal dysplasia (RD), Protein-losing Enteropathyphy (PLE), Protein-losing Nephropathy (PLN), Congenital deafness, Hip dysplasia, Skin allergies, Atopy, Lymphangiectasia, Various types of cancers, Addison's disease |
Other Names | Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, Wheaten, Wheatie, SCWT |
Un-like other Terrier breeds, the Wheaten's are a little more laid-back and a lot less scrappy! These doggies absolutely love 'hoomans', especially kids as this means they get more playtime! They are also thought to get on fairly well with other animals as well, although small mammals are probably a no go, seeing as they were originally bred to hunt them! Their small size means they will suit most home types and could even live in an apartment. Additionally, they don't require sky-high amounts of exercise and will be more than happy with a couple of daily walks. Like all doggies though, it's important they receive all the training and socialisation that they need to operate as happy and healthy pooches!
In Ireland, the Wheaten Terrier used to be considered a 'poor man's dog'. Essentially a dog whose job it was to kill vermin, a bit of hunting here and there, and to guard the property of their owners. It's thought that this breed may have also been developed from a Kerry Blue or an Irish Terrier. Back in the 18th century, many dogs were taxed, unless they were working dogs, which were identified by having a docked tail (removed tail). They weren't a registered breed with the Kennel Club until 1937, funnily enough on St. Patricks Day! Since then, the doggies have gone up and up in popularity and as they are no longer to hunt vermin, they can enjoy a chill-out on the sofa or a long walk around the park!