Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Quick Summary
Friendly, adaptable terriers best suited for active families. Require dedicated grooming and exercise commitment. Excellent companions with proper training and socialization.
Contents
Weight Range
30-40 lbs
♂ Male: 35-40 lbs
♀ Female: 30-35 lbs
Height Range
43-48 inches
♂ Male: 18-19"
♀ Female: 18-19"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in Ireland during the 1800s as a versatile farm dog, skilled at hunting vermin, herding livestock, and serving as a loyal family companion
Popularity
#53
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 18"-19" |
| Female Height | 18"-19" |
| Male Weight | 35-40 lbs |
| Female Weight | 30-35 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1500-2500), supplies, and medical expenses. Monthly costs cover premium food, grooming ($60-80), and preventive care. Consider insurance for potential health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Friendly and energetic terriers with a happy disposition. Show moderate to high energy levels requiring regular exercise. Generally good with families but may exhibit typical terrier stubbornness. Early socialization helps develop well-rounded personality.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring regular human interaction and companionship. Generally good with other dogs but early socialization is important. Can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long.
Breed Overview
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers feature a distinctive silky, wheat-colored coat that flows gracefully as they move. Their square-proportioned body combines strength with agility, while their soft, wavy coat requires regular maintenance. These medium-sized terriers display a happy, alert expression through their dark eyes and well-proportioned head, embodying their friendly and devoted nature.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Minimal shedding coat
- ✓ Good with families
- ✓ Adaptable to different homes
- ✓ Friendly personality
Cons
- ✗ High grooming needs
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Requires regular exercise
- ✗ Health issues common
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Happy, Deeply Devoted |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Infrequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate to high intensity level activities help maintain their physical and mental well-being.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for potential food allergies. Regular feeding schedule helps maintain digestive health.
Feed 2-3 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Monitor weight and adjust portions accordingly. Consider breed-specific formulas that support coat health and address potential food sensitivities.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to various living spaces but thrives with a fenced yard. Ideal for suburban homes with moderate space. Tolerates different climates but needs indoor access.
Requires moderate living space with access to secure outdoor areas. Adapts well to suburban homes with fenced yards. Can adjust to apartment living if exercise needs are met consistently.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Irish farmers developed these versatile terriers in County Kerry, Ireland. Their soft, wheaten-colored coat distinguished them from other terrier breeds. They excelled at farm work, including hunting vermin and herding livestock.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s as a versatile farm dog, skilled at hunting vermin, herding livestock, and serving as a loyal family companion.
Fun Fact
Their soft, silky coat is unique among terriers, who typically have wiry fur.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular professional grooming needed. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Watch for signs of protein-losing conditions and maintain regular vet check-ups.