Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Dog Breed Information - All About Dogs

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER

Description:

Bred in Ireland for over two hundred years, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an all-purpose farm dog. These terriers are herders, ratters, hunters and watchdogs. In 1923, the breed almost went extinct but was saved by a passionate dog breeder, Patrick Blake. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are very intelligent and extremely versatile creatures. This breed gained widespread popularity in the United States, and it was officially recognized by the AKC in 1973.

Height: 17-19 inches  Weight: 30-45 pounds  Lifespan: 12-14 years

Characteristics:

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is compact, agile and very strong. He is brave and has a peculiar sense of humor. Unlike other terriers, the Wheaten Terrier is quite calm and balanced. The breed has retained all its traditional features; it is dynamic, exuberant and extremely cheerful. Comparable Breeds: Cairn TerrierKerry Blue Terrier.

Character:

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is self-collected, friendly and very proud-spirited. This dog is deeply devoted to his family, and he gets along well with teenagers. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers can easily find a common language with other dog breeds, provided that they grew up together. However, this breed is not suitable for families with small pets and cats. Also, since the Wheaten is very sensitive and moody, he is not recommended for dog breeders with no previous experience. This dog barks very rarely, but he is considered to be a great guard.

Coat / Care:

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a long, soft, silky and slightly wavy coat. The coat is single-layered, providing good protection from dirt and extreme temperatures. This breed is a moderate shedder. The Wheaten Terrier puppies are born black, and they eventually become gold or silver, with a red shade. This breed requires regular combing to prevent the hair from tangling. Every two months, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers must undergo professional grooming procedure. Bathe your terrier as needed. You should also regularly check the dog’s eyes and ears.

Health Problems:

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to flea allergies, Addison’s disease, cancer, renal dysplasia and skin diseases. Also, Wheaten Terriers are sensitive to solar radiation, and they do not tolerate extremely hot weather. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.

Weight / Height

The male Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dog breed’s height is around 18 – 19 inches and weighs around 35 and 40 pounds. Female Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dogs can reach a size from 17 – 18 inches and weighs between 30 and 35 pounds.

Training:

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is independent and stubborn and therefore requires a very strong leader. However, he learns quickly and is eager to please his owner. Early socialization and obedience training are essential for these terriers. This breed has a very sensitive nature and will not submit to imperious and rude master. Since the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a diligent student, and he is very happy to participate in various competitions. Also, this breed is often used for therapeutic purposes (Canistherapy).

Activity:

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers love all kinds of family activities and outdoor games. Hence, these dogs thrive best in a large, well-fenced yard. However, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can adjust to apartment living, provided that he exercises intensely on everyday basis.

Photo credit: Siri Spjelkavik/Flickr

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