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.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Wheatons

Lively terriers with a sense of humor

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
17 to 19 inches tall
Group Size Medium
Lifespan
12 to 14 years
020
Weight
30 to 40 lbs
0150

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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Wheaton

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

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Inflammatory bowel disease

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Skin allergies

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Ear infection

Senior Wheaton

9+ years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

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Splenic cancer

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Kidney failure

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Intervertebral disc disease

Wheaton puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

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Gastroenteritis

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Ear infection

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Trauma

Young adult Wheaton

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

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Ear infection

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Foreign body ingestion

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Skin allergies

Mature adult Wheaton

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

risk-level-bar

Inflammatory bowel disease

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Senior Wheaton

9+ years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

risk-level-bar

Splenic cancer

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

risk-level-bar

Intervertebral disc disease

Wheaton puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

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Trauma

Young adult Wheaton

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Wheaton conditions

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Ear infection

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Foreign body ingestion

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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.

How often should I bathe my Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

What kind of brush should I use on my Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?

Basic tools for grooming your Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier include a metal comb with both narrow and wide teeth, as well as a metal pin brush and slicker brush. These will help you to keep the coat clean of debris and remove any mats before they are set in place.

How often does my Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier need to be groomed?

While grooming a Soft-Coated Wheaten for the show ring is labor-intesive, most Wheatens kept as pets see a professional groomer every 4-8 weeks to be clipped. Weekly combing and brushing along with trimming or clipping nails between appointments will keep your dog in fine shape.

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

Other breeds like Wheatons

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