Last Updated on September 20, 2023
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, often called The Wheaten or the short it is a lesser popular breed of dog in United States. However, his jolly, friendly and deeply committed character is gradually becoming a more popular breed with pet owners.
If you’re just seeking a piece of information on the Wheaten or you have recently adopted one and want some suggestions, you’ll discover all you need to be aware of regarding the Wheaten breed through this thorough guide.
Learn about his background and how it influences his character. Also, you’ll learn about his lengthy grooming regimen and his sometimes obstinate personality. It’s a terrier at the end of the day! This means that the breed isn’t for all. But it is true that the Wheaten is a great match for a variety of kinds of lifestyles. Find out whether this breed is the ideal for your next dog pet!
History
Ireland has provided the world with a variety of exquisite things. It has everything from some of the most acclaimed literature to delicious , smooth whiskey. And, most importantly, three beautiful terrier canines! They are the Kerry Blue Terrier The Irish Terrier, and this adorable Scamp known as known as the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. In contrast to many pure breeds, the background of the Wheaten isn’t fully documented. It is believed that the three Irish breeds of terriers have an identical canine forefather.
The Wheaten was designed to serve as an all-purpose farm dog. His tasks included protecting the chicken coop and alerting his owner to intruders/visitors, herding and eradicating vermin. At night, he was welcomed into the home of his family to entertain the children in the evening. Then, he took a rest by the fireplace together with the master. The dog was a star in all he did and was loved by all the family.
Wheatens are frequently called the “poor man’s pet’ because ordinary folk weren’t allowed to own the Irish Wolfhound, Beagles, or Spaniels under the law. They were only available to the wealthy or noble. Therefore, the Wheaten was a working class dog. Working hard and having fun was his motto. The tail of his dog was docked to inform the taxman that they were not subject to tax collection.
The first Wheatens were introduced to America around 1946. However, it wasn’t until 1962 when it was in 1962 that the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America was established. The first meeting took place at Boston in the month of St. Patrick’s Day (obviously!). The AKC acknowledged them as an official breed in 1973. The Wheaten is the most well-known breed in America. He regularly is in the range of 50 and 60 to 60 the most popular breed of dogin the American Kennel Club canine charts.
Temperament
The AKC summarizes Wheaten’s personality in just four words: friendly happy, cheerful, and committed. Wheaten has an uncanny love of life and there’s no dull moment when you have the Wheaten present in the world. Even on the dullest of days, his smile will shine across the room from ear-to-ear. The Wheaten will cheer the whole family up regardless of the weather. The bouncy ball of fluffy is always keen to play games with his family. A characteristic of breeds is to spin around in circles when the dog is ecstatic!
The solitude of life is a man’s worst nightmare! He is in search of friendship, and this is among the love it or hate it traits. If you’re looking for a ferocious pet to keep you entertained throughout the day, this is the right dog for the job. If you’re looking for dogs that can entertain themselves for a while and let you go to work this dog isn’t going to be a good fit.
However, every cloud (if you’re looking at it!) is a blessing with a silver lining isn’t it? As a trustworthy farmer dog this one has developed a strong connection with his human over the decades. Even if you don’t employ him on a farm, everybody within the family will be the focus of his attention. Affectionate to humans This breed prefers to think of himself as part of the group. He’ll pamper you with endless Irish affection and kisses!
His dedication, coupled with his natural sharpness make him an excellent watchdog. It’s great if your alarm clock is not working. It’s not so great if you have neighbors who are sensitive to noise or already in a tenancy noise alert! However, he doesn’t respond to his warnings with any protections – he’s too friendly for this. Watchdog, yes. Guard dog, certainly not!
He’s very welcoming and courteous, and is an absolute pleasure to be around. Everyone is in love with him and it’s easy to understand why he’s getting more and more popular. He is a fan of being the centre of attention and is especially fond of children. Perhaps because they’re just as funny as he is. He’s got a funny charisma, and an affable side. Snuggling on the couch with his loved ones is a favorite pastime of his.
Size & Appearance
Wheaten Wheaten The Wheaten an average-sized breed that weighs between 30 to 40 pounds. He is between 17 to 19 inches tall from shoulder to paw. Female Wheatens are generally less imposing than male counterparts. Under his soft coat the Wheaten has a compact muscles that give an impressive amount of strength and force. In general, he is a typical Irish square outline of a terrier.
The facial features are rectangular in form and is slightly longer in comparison to the typical dog’s skull. The eyes of the Wheaten are dark and are set apart with a nose that is solid black in the color. The ears of the Wheaten are small in size, and they point slightly toward his eyes. The tail is typically docked, but sometimes it’s natural, but it is always up. If you’re planning to exhibit the world your Wheaten at the show, he’ll have to be in line with the breed standards..
Coat & Colors
The coat of the Wheaten is his most adored characteristic. The Teddy bear-coated dog is soft and gorgeous. He is covered in one coat that puts him within the hypoallergenic dog breed. However, there is no dog that is really hypoallergenic! However, it could make him more comfortable for those with mild allergies. It’s soft and silky in its texture which makes him unique in the group of terrier dogs.
There are two types of coats that are available, the Irish coat, as well as an American coat. It is the Irish coat is typically more wavy and more silky in comparison to the American coat. The American coat is generally more bulky and fuller. In America the breed standard prefers coats that are more full and heavier than the American coat. However, Irish breeders prefer a more streamlined coat because it is believed to be the original coat for working. They view that the American coat as being too blousy.
It is true that there aren’t many coats that are Irish-coated Wheaten breeders in America. If this is something you are looking for make sure you talk with the breeder regarding what coats their puppies have. Certain breeders attempt to mix coats of both kinds to create a harmonious middle, and they are known as “Heavy Irish.. In the end the coat’s type doesn’t affect the personality of their pups or personality in any manner.
There is only one acceptable coat color that is accepted, and that’s wheaten. It could be any color of wheaten, from light beige to glittering gold. Sometimes, the muzzle and eyes are gray-blue sometimes white and red hairs can be hidden in the coat. Puppy puppies are born darker, and their coats gradually become lighter. It will be clear their true color once they turn two years old. age. Their waves will be waiting until that time to show as well.
Exercise Requirements
It is believed that the Wheaten is a tough breed with terrier-like genes. This means he requires a lot of exercise every day, right? Well, no, actually! This is the main attraction of his. He is typical of the cheeky dog, but without the need for constant physical stimulation that we find in other breeds of terriers. He requires 30 minutes of physical activity per day which makes his requirements for exercise typical. This is ideal for families that are unable to spend hours on daily walks.
What he really needs however, is lots of stimulation for his brain. Between outdoor activities and play, he requires interactive time with his loved ones throughout the day. Also, he needs access to fun and exciting pet toys to keep his mind stimulated. If he doesn’t have these, he’ll surely be disoriented and destructive. The majority of ratting dogs like digging, and this is something he’ll likely do when bored.
Living Conditions
The Wheaten has few demands when it comes to the conditions he prefers. In reality, there are only two requirements, making him a relaxed luke for certain. The second is that his residence could be whatever size, or large property, but it must be secure from burglars..
They are masters of escape particularly in search for something swift and furry. It doesn’t matter whether there’s traffic in the way and he’ll be able to catch that squirrel! To ensure your safety and security You must protect your home and garden.
The other is that his family has to be at home most of the time. Big or small the man doesn’t care about the kind of house or apartment you reside in. As long as you’re not alone. Do not underestimate the possibility of an extreme problem with separation anxiety. Therefore, don’t bring this dog on when you spend a lot of time away from your home. In general, he’s an flexible dog if you satisfy these two conditions.
He is able to live with any family. He is a lover of children and is a wonderful family member for young families. He is often the the best dog sibling that a child would want! He’s not overly large and isn’t too big for the majority of children. In addition, he can live in a couple who has retired or even a singleton. There is also the possibility of living with pets as well. Despite having a high prey drive, the animals members of his family are just food, not friends! Anything else that is feathery or furry beyond the confines of his family, is likely to be pursued.
Training
The Wheaten is an incredibly intelligent dog breed that strives to please its owner. This means that he can be trained for the most part at least! He must remind us that he’s an animal and does this by being somewhat stubborn. On most days, he’ll train well. However, there are times when the boy will turn his head at us. We’ll allow him to go however, since we all go through bad days!
He requires regular and early training for you to get the most out of him. Positive reinforcement training is the most effective method to train the Wheaten. He’ll sulk when you’re too harsh in your approach! The fact that he is a prey animal will mean that he’ll be a bit obsessed with chasing things and so, consider buying toys that you can throw away as an incentive for good behaviour.
To transform into an obedient dog it is essential that he be well-socialized when he’s a puppy. Otherwise, he’ll view every thing around him as a threat, and eventually become an anxious and scared dog. Mix him up with the most dogs you can, and expose him to humans and their sights, sounds and even environments. It’s not just enjoyable, but it will help make your life with him much more enjoyable.
There’s no doubt it that the Wheaten is a bit anxiety-prone streak particularly when left on their own in a confined space for too long. Make sure you leave the Wheaten for short time periods while you are a puppy to help him get familiar with the idea of being left alone. It’s also a good idea to train your dog in a crate. It’s not just providing the security that dogs need. It also helps him feel secure when you must leave. In addition, it means that you don’t have access to your most treasured possessions even when you’re not there.
While we would not recommend the dog to be let off leash in public spaces but this may not be the most appropriate option for certain families. It’s also helpful when he gets away. If you’re looking to let him go off the leash, you’ll have to be working hard to improve your recall skills. He is extremely prone to prey drive, however it is important to be aware that your instincts may prevail even if you do make sure you train him properly. It’s up to you!
Health
It is believed that the Wheaten is a healthy breed of dog, and his average life span is 12-14 years. There are a variety of things every dog owner can do to extend the lifespan of their dog. Things like keeping to routine health check-ups at the vet, eating the highest quality food that you are able to afford and staying active with regular exercise. Simple actions are most beneficial for your dog’s optimal health.
Wheaten Wheaten is susceptible to certain health issues more than other people due to gene inheritance. This means that you’re in an excellent starting point for your Wheaten health studies. However, remember that it’s not a complete list since every dog is different. Let’s look at the most frequent health issues and the symptoms that are related to these.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a frequent health issue. It occurs when the hip socket and thigh bone don’t sit correctly. This could result in discomfort and dislocation of the hip. Always consult an expert in breeding who checks for the highest hip score. Insomnia, difficulty to stand, lie down or climb steps are all signs.
Eye Conditions
The progressive retina atrophy condition is among the most frequent eye disease. Wheaten breeds are more susceptible to this condition. Wheaten is more susceptible to this condition than other breeds. It could lead to permanent loss of vision. If you experience low vision, light sensitivity or bumping into objects, you should visit the vet.
Protein-losing Nephropathy
It is a genetically transmitted disease that causes an over quantity of plasma and proteins to go through the kidney. It is a cause of anemia and high cholesterol, leading to health issues. The symptoms include increased thirst and the need to urinate, weight loss, diarrhea and abdominal swelling as well as breathing difficulties as well as kidney problems. It is treatable by taking medication and a diet.
Protein-losing Enteropathy
Similar to the above condition it also triggers excessive loss of protein, however through the digestive tract. The signs are similar and can be controlled by taking medication and a diet.
Addison’s Disease
It is often referred to as hypoadrenocorticism. It is a sign of an insufficient the production of hormones that stimulate adrenal glands. This can cause other problems as well. If it is not recognized it could lead to extreme body stress and toxic levels of potassium which can cause shock and death on the spot. The first signs are vomiting and a lack of appetite, as well as very little appetite. The symptoms could be misinterpreted as a sign of other ailments So, inform your veterinarian to note that these symptoms are more prevalent in Wheatens.
Renal Dysplasia
Another kidney problem that develops in the event that the kidney is developing in a way that is abnormal. This can lead to early kidney failure. Urination and thirst increases nausea, vomiting, a lack of appetite, as well as frequent infections of the urinary tract are just a few signs of this condition.
Nutrition
A normal non-working Wheaten can take between 1.5 to 2 cups of food each day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be contingent on his energy level as well as his age and the amount of kibble you give him. It is important not to overload the Wheaten, so make certain to follow the instructions. The coat of your Wheaten could conceal any extra pounds So be certain to monitor his weight frequently.
It is essential to feed your dog an excellent food that offers a balanced diet. Your veterinarian may recommend an individual diet that is tailored to the various kidney issues that he could have to deal with. They may also suggest the use of a low protein or energy food. Make sure you ask your veterinarian when you next visit them. Food that is appropriate for your age is the best since it can meet the different stage of life requirements.
Grooming
The coat of the Wheaten is his most valuable asset, and despite being a laid-back Luke, his grooming regimen isn’t simple! If you own or have an Irish or American-coated dog, you will require a daily brushing. The distinction is that it’ll take a bit longer to groom him if you have an extra thick, fuller American coat. The long, wavy hair can be prone to tangling and matting, therefore you must stay up with it.
Begin with an slicker or pin brush to get rid of all the dead hair and dirt. Follow it up with a thorough comb using an fine-toothed metal comb that will get rid of any knots. There shouldn’t be too many knots if you clean him regularly. Focus on areas like under the neck and behind the legs because they are likely to accumulate more in those areas. Matting can be much more harmful than it appears!
As a hypoallergenic single-coated breed that is low shedder. This is an amazing feature of his and helps keep your home in pristine condition. Did we mention that your home is pristine? Forget it, sorry! The man’s hair is long enough to keep dirt and grime from outside and then bring it inside. Additionally, each time you drink or eat liquid, the food and drink will adhere on his beard. He’ll spread it across the couch and rub his chops across the floorfor an extra dose of fun. If you’re an incredibly neat person, then the Wheaten isn’t the right one for you!
Since he’s so filthy because of his dirty clothes, he’ll require to bathe every month. But not more than that however, as it can cause irritation to his skin and damage the naturally occurring coat oils. Always use a dog shampoo that is made from natural ingredients like oatmeal. It is essential to thoroughly dry him to avoid dampness and subsequent sores. Also, he will require clipping frequently. A lot of Wheaten owners choose to take him to the groomers each six weeks in order to ensure that he is looking at his best.
The Wheaten requires his teeth cleaned every two weeks at a minimum to help keep periodontal disease at low. Cut his nails every two to four weeks also, based on the extent to which they become worn down. It’s best for you to introduce to your Wheaten to his grooming routine as a puppy to help him become accustomed to the routine. Otherwise, it’s an everyday nightmare for groomers to clean him!
Breeders & Puppy Costs
Wheaten Wheaten is an extremely rare breed of dog and you might need to travel a long distance to locate a reliable breeder. However, you must partner with a reliable breeder to ensure that you get an animal that is healthy and happy. The best place to begin your search for a breeder is the AKC’s Wheaten breeder page. The cost of a Wheaten puppy is around $1,000 and can go up to $1,500.
If you see puppies for lower than the average consider it an indication that they may be a negligent breeder. or, even worse is an animal farm. They are not only focused on profit than your dog’s health. They also ignore the puppy’s and dog’s fundamental requirements. If they appear to be hesitant about details, pushy to sell you something or refuse to visit the puppies in their “home” environment then walk away.
A good breeder should have many years of experience breeding Wheaten. They’ll likely possess a professional site as well as independent reviews on the internet. Request to see pertinent health certificates and make sure you visit the puppies in person. By paying a little more, you can ensure that you are able to rest assured your breeder did all they can to create healthy puppies.
There’s more than only the initial cost of a puppy to consider. It is also important to take into account the ongoing expenses that come with having the dog. First, you’ll have to prepare your home with all the things he requires including beds and a crate, toys and a harness and so on. Don’t forget to include the puppy’s safety and security by securing your home! You must also consider ongoing medical expenses as well as the insurance policy, meals, and grooming. The Wheaten isn’t the most costly breed to take care of however, it is worth to be considered.
Rescues & Shelters
New shiny and brand new Wheaten puppies aren’t the only option here. It is also possible to adopt one of the Wheaten. It is true that you are more likely to see an older Wheaten at the shelter however, this may be an option that is more suitable for certain families. Go to the shelter in your area and talk to the staff who can guide you through the process of adoption. Also, hopefully, they will guide you to the home of an adorable Wheaten dog!
There are also private rescue groups which dedicate their whole effort and time to rehoming Wheaten dogs and mix. This will boost the chances of getting an Wheaten due to the fact that they are a scarce breed across America. It is worth noting that the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America offers an adoption page on which you can fill out an application for adoption. Make sure to visit it.
As Family Pets
- The Wheaten is a great all-around dog that is loved by many families.
- Wheatens are laid back which makes him a good swathe.
- He is a playful dog who enjoys spending time with his family.
- He is sweet, affectionate and affectionate.
- Wheatens are a sucker for relaxing on the couch with his owner.
- He is nice to all people and is outgoing.
- Wheatens are great watchdogs however, they are not the best guard dogs because of their sociability.
- The Wheaten has a large prey drive.
- This means that he shouldn’t be allowed to walk off without supervision.
- Also, you’ll need to ensure that your home and your yard are secure.
- He loves children and plays gentle with children. Kids tend to be awestruck by him as well!
- He’s polite when interacting with other dogs, however he is a bit frenzied outside the family unit.
- Wheatens shed less than other breeds, but can get messy because of their long fluffy hair.
- This breed is characterized by a rigorous daily grooming routine.
- You should plan to have time to groom this puppy.
Final Thoughts
Wheaten Wheaten is a beautiful dog that has the energy of a dog However, he’s far less obnoxious than other breeds of terriers. He’s always smiling and you can feel the joy radiating from his shiny body! Wheatens are a joy to play with and relax with his family , and is a huge fan of dogs and children.
He doesn’t have much to ask of his family members, on the other hand, he has his own needs beyond the companionship of his owner and grooming every day. If you’re able to handle the dirty fur as well as his naughty ways You might discover that pan of Irish gold that you’ve been looking for!