Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Summary
The Wheaten is probably the oldest of the four Irish terriers, with records of "soft-coated" dogs in Ireland dating back at least two centuries. It was developed as a versatile farm dog: it caught rodents, hunted rabbit and fox, herded cattle, and stood guard. Its name reflects the wheat color that characterizes its silky and flowing coat — the softest among all terriers.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 46–48 cm
- Height (female)
- 43–46 cm
- Weight (male)
- 18–20.5 kg
- Weight (female)
- 13–16 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- single coat (no undercoat), soft, wavy or loosely curled, with silky sheen; not harsh
- Common Colors
- any shade from light wheat to golden-reddish
Temperament & Personality
The Wheaten is often described as a terrier with a golden retriever's heart — it is exuberant, cheerful, extremely affectionate, and devoted to the family. Unlike many terriers, it is not prone to aggression toward other dogs. However, it retains the terrier independence and stubbornness, as well as an active prey drive. The "greeting explosion" — the enthusiastic jumping welcome for anyone arriving home — is one of its trademarks that requires early training.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Minimal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Atopic dermatitis (very common; \"Westie Armpit Disease\" or White Shaker Dog Syndrome)
- Food allergies
- Hip dysplasia
- Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE)
- Protein-losing nephropathy (PLN)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Food trials
- Hip evaluation
- Kidney evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
