SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER
APPEARANCE
The Soft coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized dog, and has a short but sturdy build. He is well proportioned, and has a square shaped head. The coat of the Soft coated Wheaten Terrier is black at birth but gets gradually lighter, and by the time he is two it should be a lovely, wheaten color with a wavy appearance. The coat is soft and silky in texture. The Soft coated Wheaten Terrier is around 17-19 inches in height for females, and 18-19 inches for males. These dogs weigh in at 30-35 pounds for females, and 35-40 pounds for males.
PERSONALITY
he breed is known for its puppy-like nature even throughout adulthood. Its gentle, affectionate, pleasing, and playful nature makes it an enjoyable companion. The Wheaten is a loyal pet, having lived with people for centuries. It tends to move gracefully, and behaves well around children and other pets.
TRAINING
They can be something of a handful, and are best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership. Owners need to be confident, assertive, and consistent when it comes to training. Some can be obstinate, strong willed, and difficult to control with the wrong owner or inadequate training. The Soft coated Wheaten Terrier is a quick learner, responsive, and intelligent, so training should not prove too much of a challenge for those with experience. Providing you can provide this dog with the attention, as well as the mental and physical stimulation that he needs, he can make a good, steady companion and pet.
EXERCISE
These dogs have a fair amount of energy, and enjoy vigorous play and exercise. When not on a leash, the Soft coated Wheaten Terrier needs a safe and secure area in which to play and exercise with high fences, as he may otherwise escape. They thrive on interaction, companionship, and the love of their owners, and are not suited to those that cannot commit time to look after a pet.
SOCIALIZATION
With proper, early socialization the Soft coated Wheaten Terrier boasts a confident, friendly, and sociable personality. These spirited dogs get along well with older, gentle children, and with proper socialization will get along okay with other pets, although some can be aggressive with same sex dogs. They will bark to raise an alarm, and this makes them effective watchdogs, but they are usually friendly and sociable with strangers despite their bark.
LIVING CONDITIONS
The Wheaten is ideal for those living in an apartment, as it is able to obtain a good amount of exercise indoors or in a small yard. This breed, however, doesn’t respond well to heat. Though it can survive outdoors in moderate climates, life indoors (possibly with air conditioning) is most suitable.
GROOMING
This breed’s thick, long coat needs frequent combing (as well as trimming and bathing every 6-8 weeks) to maintain its silky appearance and prevent dead hair from causing tangles. Trimming, however, should be done with scissors instead of clippers. Also, be sure to examine the ears, and carefully clean the area surrounding the eyes.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Soft coated Wheaten Terrier is around 12-14 years, and there are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed. Some of these include vWD, PRA, HD, cataracts, renal problems, allergies, and sensitivity to drugs and chemicals. The parents of the Soft coated Wheaten Terrier puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates, and you should also look into renal function tests.
HISTORY
Originating from Ireland, the Soft coated Wheaten Terrier was bred as a hunter, herder, and farming dog. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1973.
