Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Group: Terrier
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Exercise: Moderate
Grooming: High
Trainability: Moderate
Area of Origin: Ireland
Date of Origin: 1500’s
Original Function: Vermin hunting, herding, guardian
History
One of only three large terriers of Ireland, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier originated as an all-around farm dog, perhaps serving in this function for hundreds of years. Besides the ever-essential terrier function of extinguishing vermin, it also helped round up stock and guards the homestead. It was later even known to be trained as a gundog. Its early history is largely undocumented; however, it is mentioned as a progenitor of the Kerry Blue Terrier.
Temperament
Intelligent and loving breed, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers do well with children and are very devoted to their families, but they will not get along with cats. They are playful, friendly and sweet-tempered.
Upkeep
This is an athletic dog that needs a good daily workout, either in the form of a moderate to long walk or an invigorating game in the yard. It should be allowed loose only in a safe area because it still loves to hunt and chase. The Wheaten can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it is far better suited as an indoor dog. Its long coat needs brushing or combing every two days. As a no-shedding dog, loose hair becomes entangled in the coat and will mat if not combed out. Bathing and trimming every other month is necessary to maintain the desirable coat and silhouette; pets can be better managed if their coats are clipped to about 3 inches, but then they lose the breed's typical outline.
Breeders
Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.
You may also be interested in:
Airedale Terrier
Irish Terrier
Schnauzer
Owner Testimonial
Do you have a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier? We’d love to hear about what your thoughts on the breed are!
Please contact us with a photo of your pup along with a brief summary of their personality for the chance to be featured.
Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
No copyright infringement intended.