Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Behavior and Temperment
| Indoor Activity | Outdoor Activity | Vigor | Consistant Behavior |
| Dominance Strange Dogs | |
| Territorial | |
| Good With Children | |
| Good With Strangers |
Introduction
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed known for its cheerful disposition and distinctive, silky coat. Originating from Ireland, this breed has won the hearts of many due to its friendly nature and versatile capabilities. This essay explores the history, temperament, physical characteristics, and average lifespan of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
History
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds, hailing from Ireland. It was originally bred as an all-purpose farm dog, tasked with duties such as herding livestock, guarding the farm, and hunting vermin. The breed's name comes from its soft, wheat-colored coat, which is one of its most defining features. Despite its long history, the Wheaten Terrier was only officially recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1937 and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1973. Today, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is beloved as both a companion and a show dog, admired for its spirited personality and elegant appearance.
Temperament
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing temperament. They are affectionate and devoted to their families, making them excellent companions. Unlike some other terrier breeds, Wheatens are generally more easygoing and less prone to aggression. However, they still possess the typical terrier traits of being alert, energetic, and sometimes stubborn. Wheatens are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train, though they do require consistent guidance. They are also known for their "Wheaten greetin'," a joyful and enthusiastic welcome they give to their owners. With proper socialization, they get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats.
Physical Characteristics
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a sturdy, medium-sized dog with a distinctive, silky coat that falls in gentle waves. Their coat, which comes in shades of wheaten (light gold to beige), is low-shedding but requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Wheatens have a strong, square build with a deep chest and a level topline. Their heads are well-proportioned, with a slightly rounded skull, dark, almond-shaped eyes, and ears that fold forward. The breed's tail is typically docked and carried gaily. While males and females are similar in appearance, there are slight differences in size and weight.
| Characteristic | Male Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | Female Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 18-19 inches (46-48 cm) | 17-18 inches (43-46 cm) |
| Weight | 35-40 pounds (16-18 kg) | 30-35 pounds (14-16 kg) |
Average Breed Lifespan
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. While generally a healthy breed, Wheatens can be prone to certain health issues such as protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), protein-losing nephropathy (PLN), and hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of a Wheaten Terrier.