Group: Terrier

Weight: Male: 35-45 Female: 30-40 Lbs

Height: Male: 18-20 Female: 17-19 inches



History

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the oldest local Irish terrier today and most certainly related to most of the Irish terriers. These dogs were originally developed as worknig farm dogs, and used to herd the cattle, hunt small game and also be a guard to the farmhouse. The numbers of these dogs decreased disturbingly during the 1930s. Through careful breeding, it was managed to rescue this breed.

Characteristics

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized dogs that are compact and supple. They possess lots of stamina and strength, and are more firm and stable than the other terrier breeds. These dogs are not overly sophisticated, and still have many of the good characteristics they were developed with.

Temperament

The Soft coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy and energetic dog. They are very outgoing and secure, and will sometimes act like a puppy even if they are grown up. These dogs have lots of energy, and are very fond of playing and exercise. It is recommended that these dogs be kept in a secure area when not on a leash as they have a tendency to escape. They love interaction and the companionship of their owners – and will not work well with those that don’t have time to devote to their dogs. If properly socialised, the Soft coated wheaten terrier will be confident and warm. They can be a handful, and will be best suited to those with some previous dog ownership experience. The owners of these dogs will have to be firm and assertive.

Care

Soft coated Wheaten Terriers will require quite some grooming, and their coats will require to be brushed three to four times a week. Their coats should also be clipped every few months or so. The good news are that these are low shedding dogs, and might be suitable for people that suffers from allergies. For more detailed info, take a look at the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Grooming page.

Training

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is naturally self-governing and obstinate – therefore thay require a dominant owner. They are however very quick in their learning, and very keen to please their owners. It is important that they are socialised early on, and trained in obedience. These dogs will not do well with rough training methods, and will react positively when training is firm and fair. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers do very well in fly-ball competitions, and are also used as therapy dogs.

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