Description

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized, hardy, well balanced sporting terrier, square in outline. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is distinguished by its soft, silky, gently waving coat of warm wheaten color and their steady disposition. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a jolly breed who will retain their carefree puppy-ness right into adulthood. Puppies are born dark apricot but lighten to a clear golden wheaten color by two years of age.

Size of Male: Height: 18-19 inches Weight: 35-40 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 17-18 inches Weight: 30-35 pounds

Temperament

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an alert and happy animal – graceful, strong and well-coordinated. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a playful and friendly terrier. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers make great watch dogs and bark at the arrival of guests. They are usually very loving with children and get along reasonably well with other dogs provided they are socialized when they are young. They do not get along well with cats. All it takes is some fast movement on the part of the cat, and the dog’s instincts will take over and attack. They have a puppy attitude that remains with it throughout its life. Sweet-tempered, easy-going and self-confident. This breed needs to be taught when it’s young what is and is not acceptable behavior. It is very intelligent, so it will generally grasp quickly what is required of them. They have a straightforward nature and need to be handled in a straightforward manner. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers bond extremely closely with their family. They seldom bark unnecessarily. Though not as aggressive as many other terriers, males may be combative with other male dogs if challenged. The Soft Coated Wheaten should be well socialized with other dogs while they are young puppies.

Living Conditions

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is good for apartment life. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are moderately active indoors and a small yard will do. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier does not tolerate heat very well.

Upkeep

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an athletic dog that needs a good daily workout, either in the form of a moderate to long walk or an invigorating game in the yard. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier should be allowed loose only in a safe area because it still loves to hunt and chase. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it is far better suited as an indoor dog. Its long coat needs brushing or combing every two days. As a non-shedding dog, loose hair becomes entangled in the coat and will mat if not combed out. Bathing and trimming every other month is necessary to maintain the desirable coat and silhouette; pets can be better managed if their coats are clipped to about 3 inches, but then they will lose the breed’s typical outline.

Health

Major concerns: protein wasting diseases (PLE and PLN)

Minor concerns: renal dysplasia, allergies

Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years