If you are not familiar with this breed, you are in for a surprise. When you first meet a Wheaten, you are struck by the beautiful coloration of its coat, hence its name, which contrasts with piercing dark eyes, black lips, and a large black nose. These terriers are friendly, outgoing dogs that will become instant friends, more so than the typical terrier.
Let’s get to know this breed better by reviewing the numbers first. The males grow to between 18 and 20 inches in height or between 46 and 51 cm. while females measure 17-19 inches or 43-48 cm. Males weigh between 35-45 pounds or 16-20 kg. while females weigh between 30-40 pounds or 14-18 kg. These measurements place the dog squarely in the medium size category.
You can expect the breed to survive for 12-15 years.
The dog’s roots are steeped in traditional Irish. This was not a dog from the upper layer of society. Rather, the Wheaten was bred by and for the average Irishman in need of a herder, hunting partner, or vermin dispatcher. In fact, the breed wasn’t recognized in the UK until the 1940s, with the AKC doing so in 1973.
The Wheaten pup is usually reddish-brown in color and stays that way for about 3-4 months. The coat begins to transition to the familiar warm wheat color during this time. The transition to full color will occur within 8 to 12 months. This very soft coat requires regular attention, such as frequent combing and brushing. Combing is actually considered the best method. The coat has a tendency to mat if left unattended. This is exacerbated if the fur gets wet. Today the Wheaten is not considered an outdoor dog for this reason.
Also, the coat should be trimmed regularly. This is important for two reasons. As mentioned above, with a tendency to mat, trimming the coat lessens this result. Second, although the dog does not shed, a great advantage of the breed, clipping removes loose hair. For potential dog owners who may be allergic to dogs, the Wheaten is a great choice, for this reason.
Obedience training is very important. The breed has a tendency to jump and can be very excitable. They are considered by some to be the best greeters in the canine kingdom. They are not afraid to wonder and will pounce on you as they decide to explore something new in their environment. We suggest that training start very early. They are quite sensitive and tend to reflect the owner’s mood, so upbeat, positive reinforcement with firm repetition regarding training is recommended.
The breed is emotionally well balanced and very determined to please. They can be very social with other dogs when properly introduced. As protectors, they can be trusted to bark at unusual noises or visitors. With that said, we would not classify the Wheaten as a guard dog. They are too inclined to make friends. However, it is exactly this disposition that makes the breed a wonderful choice for families with children. Their indulgent nature and willingness to romp around the house make them instant favorites with little ones.
Moderate exercise is recommended. You can expect Wheaten to easily fit into your schedule when it comes to walks and “play time.”
Separation anxiety can be a problem with Wheaten. It seems that every time you leave, they consider it a final event. It’s best not to create unnecessary attention or excitement around outings. Leave quietly and be sure to provide a reward upon return to reinforce the desired behavior.
Wheats have very sensitive skin and do not respond well to flea or tick bites. Itchy skin and hot spots can be expected. They are also prone to various food allergies, ironically to wheat, for example. You should consult a veterinarian for more details. They are also less tolerant of very hot weather. In contrast, winter parties in the snow are highly desirable. In general, though, Wheatens tend to be a healthy, long-lived breed with regular medical care and a balanced diet.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an excellent choice for families with children; for those who suffer from allergies or for someone looking for a loyal friend for life. With moderate exercise, firm but friendly training, and regular brushing, the Wheaten will provide its owner with countless hours of companionship.