Origin

The Irish farmer’s answer to vermin problems, the Soft-coated Wheaten, bred and developed for over two hundred years, is a good ratter and an excellent general farm dog. They were first recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in the late 1930’s and by the UK Kennel Club in the early 1940’s. This dog is the oldest native terrier of Ireland and is proof that the Irish breeding talent does not begin and end with racehorses.

Description

 

The Wheaten is a medium sized dog with a distinctive silky, gently curling coat that gives a natural, unfussy look. 

Size	Medium
Colour	This dog has a very distinctive coat. It is best described as being the warm colour of ripening wheat.
Coat Length	Medium Long
Weight/Height Range	Dogs should measure between 46-49cms and weigh between 16-20.5 kgs. Bitches should ideally measure between 43-47cms and weigh between 13.5-18kgs.
Ailments	The Wheaten appears to be quite a hardy dog that doesn’t suffer from many health problems. Skin problems can and do occur, these occurrences can be reduced with correct grooming, coat and skin care. There have been limited incidences of hip dysplasia and PRA which breeders are screening their stock for. The other concern seems to be heart problems, which is being investigated further.
Breed Classification	The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a member of the terrier group. They were originally used for guarding, droving, herding, hunting and for controlling vermin populations; today they are used mainly as companions.

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Personality

 

These dogs have strong personalities and a sense of fun. As long as they are included in everything you do they will prove trustworthy companions. They will keep you on your toes by occasionally misbehaving, but are generally high-spirited in the nicest possible way.

 

Intelligence	The Wheaten is an intelligent dog that is quick to learn, but they can be stubborn and independent.
Energy	High
Suitability for Children	High
Tendency to Bark	Medium
Overall Exercise Requirement	Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are active dogs that need sufficient exercise or they can become somewhat unruly indoors.
Suitability as a Guard Dog	Low
Ease of Transportation	Medium
Level of Aggression	Low
Other Animal Compatibility	High

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Grooming

 

The non shedding silky, gently curling coat will need to be groomed on a regular basis to keep it clean, shiny and tangle free. Grooming needs will be greater between the ages of 7 to 24 months when the adult coat comes in.

Grooming Requirements	More than once a week
Amount of Hair Shed	None

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