Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Miniature American Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Energetic0.8
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Independent0.4
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier5/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Strangers
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
PLN: Protein-losing nephropathy
PLE: Protein-losing enteropathy
RD: Renal dysplasia concerns
Addison's: Adrenal insufficiency
IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease
Hip Dysplasia: Joint condition
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Pros & Cons Comparison
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Fun Fact
Their soft, silky coat is unique among terriers, who typically have wiry fur.
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Heritage & Purpose
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s as a versatile farm dog, skilled at hunting vermin, herding livestock, and serving as a loyal family companion.
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Special Considerations
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Watch for signs of protein-losing conditions and maintain regular vet check-ups.
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.