The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier got its start catching vermin, rounding up stock, and guarding the house on Irish farms. These days, sweet-natured “Wheaties” (as their fans call them) mostly keep their people company. This breed has a lovely soft coat and a softer personality than you might expect. These dogs are gentler, quieter, and a bit less scrappy than the average terrier — though they're just as likely to menace the cat next door.
Originally from Ireland, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 30-40 pounds and lives an average of 12-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Ireland |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 58 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1700s |
| Original function | Vermin hunting |
| Today's function | Companion |
| Average size of male | Height: 18-19 Weight: 35-40 |
| Average size of female | Height: 18-19 Weight: 35-40 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Extremely playful and affectionate, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are often wonderful with supervised older children. Unlike many terriers, the Wheatie also often gets along well with other dogs and pets. Friendly and happy, they're usually happy to meet strangers, but they tend to jump when they're excited.
WHAT IS SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a somewhat active breed that requires a medium-length walk or a short jog every day. They'll also enjoy romps in a well-fenced area. This breed retains their puppy energy well into adulthood.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are a quiet breed that doesn't bark much. As long as she gets enough exercise, your Wheatie makes a polite and calm (for a terrier) housedog.
HOW EASY IS TO TRAIN A SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIER?
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are people-pleasing, biddable dogs, with just enough of a stubborn streak to keep them in the terrier club. Be patient and consistent with this furry friend. Reward good behaviors with games or food, and be gentle with these sensitive souls. Their love for exploring and urge to hunt makes Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers poor candidates for off-leash play outside a well-fenced area.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
The good news is that Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers don't shed much, which is one of the reasons this breed is recommended for allergy sufferers. The less good news is that their gorgeous soft coats need combing or brushing three or four times a week to prevent mats and tangle. Wheaties require semimonthly baths and trims to keep them looking their best. (Keeping their coats around three inches in length can make it easier to keep up appearances.)
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO SOFT COATED WHEATEN TERRIERS HAVE?
As a breed, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are generally healthy. Some are susceptible to eye disease or hip dysplasia.
