Wheatons 101

Terrier group

The long, silky coat of the Soft-Coated Wheaten is so distinctive among the terriers that the breed is named for it. The Wheaten was developed as an all-around Irish farm dog, with duties ranging from keeping vermin populations low to protecting the chickens from marauders, with a few hunting and herding duties thrown in. This versatility required a dog who could make decisions on their own, which is perhaps why today’s Wheatens maintain an independent streak. Despite or perhaps because of that tendency, they make a lively and fun family companion, whether in an urban, suburban or rural home.

What we love about Wheatons

Lively terriers with a sense of humor

Energy level
Bark level
  • Talkative
Size
17 to 19 inches tall
Lifespan
12 to 14 years
Weight
30 to 40 lbs

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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Wheaton

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Inflammatory bowel disease

Skin allergies

Ear infection

Senior Wheaton

9+ years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Splenic cancer

Kidney failure

Intervertebral disc disease

Wheaton puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Gastroenteritis

Ear infection

Trauma

Young adult Wheaton

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Skin allergies

Mature adult Wheaton

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Inflammatory bowel disease

Skin allergies

Ear infection

Senior Wheaton

9+ years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Splenic cancer

Kidney failure

Intervertebral disc disease

Wheaton puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Gastroenteritis

Ear infection

Trauma

Young adult Wheaton

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

Ear infection

Foreign body ingestion

Skin allergies

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier image

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Soft-Coated Wheaton Terrier introduction

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier orginated as an all-round Irish farm dog, but the breed's stylish appearance attracted the attention of city-dwellers, too.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier coat care and colors

As indicated in the breed's name, the soft coat of this breed is unlike the coat of other terriers, which typically are either short-haired or wiry. While the Wheaten is known to be a low-shed dog, the breed's silky coat is not low-maintenance. Daily attention is needed to prevent matting.

Wheaton exercise & training

Full speed ahead

Exercise level

As you might expect for a breed developed for farm work, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier likes to keep busy. Long brisk walks with lots of sniff breaks are ideal. For foul-weather days, indoor games and food puzzles are a must.

Independent study

Trainability

Soft-Coated Wheatens are very bright, but not always very interested in what you'd like them to do. Because of their occasionally willful nature, make sure to start training and socializing as early as possible. Keep their interest by mixing up training and using praise and treats for motivation.

Wheaton fun facts

Top girl names for Wheatons

100%

of Wheatons are female

0%

of Wheatons are male

Top boy names for Wheatons

Nationwide loves Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

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