Please create a free account below, or login by clicking here.
Petland Racine, Wisconsin
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, an exuberant Irish farm dog, is happy, friendly, deeply devoted, and just stubborn enough to remind you he’s a terrier. The unique wheaten coat is low-shedding but needs diligent care to avoid matting. The hallmark of these merry extroverts, and what sets them apart from other terriers, is the silky, gently waving coat. It runs from a pale beige to a shimmering gold, recalling the color of ripening wheat. Topping out at 19 inches tall and 40 pounds, Wheatens are square, sturdy terriers with a peek-a-boo hairdo and dashing goatee. The overall picture is that of a hard-muscled but soft-coated working terrier or, as the breed has been described, an iron fist in a velvet glove.
Among Ireland’s gifts to civilization are reams of great literature, a mighty smooth whiskey, and three magnificent long-legged terriers’¿the Wheaten, Kerry Blue, and Irish. All share a common ancestry and were bred for similar purposes. As versatile farm dogs, Wheatens were expected to do any number of rustic chores, like ratting, guarding the chicken coop, and even herding or bird-dogging. When day was done they were engaging fireside companions, a role they still relish even if the hearth has been replaced by a TV.
Wheaten temperament is unique, combining the alert intelligence of the terrier tribe with the steadiness of the working dog.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a medium to high energy level that does not diminish, even in old age. They need plenty of exercise every day. With a strong prey drive, Wheatens will have an urge to chase after just about anything that moves, from squirrels to cars, so the backyard or other play area must be securely fenced, and walks must always be on a leash. Wheatens bond to their owners, who should expect to participate in the daily exercise sessions.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended for all dogs to help to ensure that the they grow into well-adjusted, well-mannered companions. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is keenly smart and willful, and often has his own agenda. This makes them challenging to train. It also provides another reason why obedience training should start early, before bad habits become ingrained. A Wheaten needs consistent, firm discipline but is sensitive to harsh treatment. Wheatens must be trained to be compliant without breaking their spirit.
The Wheaten’s soft, silky coat requires a fair amount of maintenance. The daily grooming session starts with a thorough going-over with a pin brush or a slicker brush to remove dirt and loose hair. Next comes a thorough combing with a medium- and fine-toothed metal comb. Any mats that are found should be pulled apart with the brush, comb, and fingers’never with scissors. As with all breeds, the nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can be painful to the dog and cause problems walking and running.
No, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can easily adapt to any environment. All they require is a few minutes outdoors daily.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers tend to attract debris, dust, and dirt on their coat. These can get distributed around the house.
They are very friendly dogs. Most times their bark is worse than their bite. While they can alert you to suspicious activities, they are not the best attackers.
Yes, they love digging. If you have a yard, they will probably leave holes all over it. It is important to inspect your fence from time to time to check for holes.
No, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are not yappy dogs. They only bark when they see something suspicious or when excited.
Training a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier might take some time and a lot of patience. They are a strong-willed dog. Firmness and positive reinforcements can make training faster.
They are best kept indoors. Though they enjoy the snow, they wilt in the sun. They also do not enjoy being in the rain. Inside is the best option.
Yes, they are very good with children.
30 minutes of exercise daily will keep your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier fit.
Divide one and a half cup of dry dog food into two bowls. Give it one half of the food in the morning and the other half at night.
If you want a furry, playful dog, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the best option for you!
Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks!
"*" indicates required fields