Softcoated Wheaten Terrier -
Purebred Dogs and Puppies

The Softcoated Wheaten Terrier

As adults they are well known for their wheat colored coat, their long blonde tuft of hair between their eyes (called a fau) and the beard underneath the chin. He is well distinguished by his soft, silky, gently waving coat of warm wheaten color and his particularly overall steady disposition.

Originally bred by the working class of Ireland, the Softcoated Wheaten Terriers were bred to be working farm dogs. They join the Irish Terrier, the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Glen of Imaal Terrier as the few terrier breeds from Ireland.

Soft Coated Wheaten puppies have a very dark coat when they are small which gradually grows out into the traditional wheat-colored coat as they mature. They have hair, like human hair or Poodle hair, which does not shed like most dogs but which needs regular trimming as it continues to grow.

It is also interesting to point out that if a Softcoated Wheaten Terriers skin is injured in any way, that when the hair grows back it will be dark like it has been bruised before it eventually returns to it's lighter wheat color.

See one of these Wheatons in action

They are usually very good with children and get along well with other dogs if they are socialized with them when they are young. They also do well with play training. They are said to be the happiest of of all the Terrier breeds and often give their owners the patented "wheaten greetin'".

Soft coated Wheaten Terriers were introduced in the United States in the 1960's but have been popular ever since. In fact, they became so popular in the US, especially in New York, that they were voted "best apartment dog" by one of the most popular dog magazines in the US.

The Wheaten should present an overall appearance of a alert and happy animal, graceful, strong, and well coordinated. Spunky, outgoing, lighthearted and playful, these dogs have loads of energy and need to release it. Wheatens can do well in almost any environment but they do require daily grooming. They shed very little overall so they need to be brushed daily.

The Wheaten is a quick, lively, affectionate dog who maintains the exuberance of a puppy for his entire life. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a native of Ireland. Note: these dogs are highly allergic to fleas - as few as one bite can cause a reaction throughout their entire body.

Country of origin: Ireland
Lifespan: 10-14 years
Colors: Wheaten
Known health problems: Protein wasting disease- PLE and PLN, flea allergies

Return from Softcoated Wheaten Terrier to AKC Terrier Dog Group