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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized terrier breed that has a hypoallergenic coat. This native of Ireland is outgoing and does require regular grooming.
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Physical Characteristics
- Medium, compact build
- Long, rectangular head with V-shaped ears that fall forward
- Coat: Soft, wavy hair
- Oval eyes in dark brown or reddish brown
- Large, black nose
- Height: 17-19 inches
- Weight: 30-40 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament
- Cheerful, social, affectionate, attentive and playful
- Interaction with people: Good with children; becomes very attached to its human family
- Interaction with animals: Gets along with other dogs, but generally not with cats
- Training: Learns quickly; needs obedience training and socializing with other dogs as puppy
- Protection: Good watchdog
Medical Conditions
- Addison's Disease (hormone disorder)
- Hip dysplasia
- Protein-Losing Enteropathy / Protein-Losing Nephropathy (gastrointestinal condition)
- Renal Dysplasia (kidney disease)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Needs a yard
- Needs plenty of regular exercise
- Prefers cooler climates
Grooming
- Non-shedder; single coat is considered hypoallergenic
- Clean and check ears and eyes regularly
- Comb out loose hair daily
- May need professional trimming throughout the year
Other Facts
- Brought to U.S. by Massachusetts-based breeder Lydia Vogel in 1946
- Many Irish folktales surround the origin of the Wheaten
- Tails were originally docked to exempt the breed from taxes, thus the Wheaten became known as the "poor man’s wolfhound"
- Used to hunt, guard and help with daily chores such as turning the spit over a fire
- May keep a puppy temperament throughout life
Breed History
- Native to Ireland
- One of the oldest Irish breeds
- Records of the Wheaten in County Kerry, Ireland, date back to 1785
- Historically used as herders, hunters and general farm dogs
- Can be traced back 200 years
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit SCWTCA Rescue
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