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Breeding - Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier History The soft coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium size breed of dog. It does not lose its hair because it has no undercoat and as a matter of fact, is said to be hypoallergenic. It is a wheat colour (thus the name "Wheaten"), very jovial in nature and known as the most gentle of the Terriers. More information can also be found on the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America's website. Native of Ireland, the Wheaten has been around for 200 years. The first Wheaten was imported to Canada in 1969. Male: Height to front shoulder - 18 1/2 inches (47 cm). Weight: 35 to 40 pounds (16 to 18 kg) Female: Height to front shoulder - 17 1/2 inches (44 cm). Weight: 30 to 35 pounds (14 to 16 kg) At birth, the Wheaten is generally dark. With each hair cut, the dog's colour changes, especially during the first year. At about one year old, some dogs will have very light coats and others will be very dark, but at the age of three, the colour stabilises to beautiful wheat beige. The Wheaten is very jolly and known to be less aggressive than other Terriers. It is also very playful without being hyperactive. It likes to greet you by jumping and if you head out to the corner store for 10 minutes, the greeting you will receive upon your return will be the same as if you had been gone for three days. The Wheaten is a good runner, but does not require a high level of exercise. There are no noticeable differences between the sexes as far as character is concerned. The Wheaten is a happy dog, curious and confident and very sensitive to physical interventions. Some Wheatens like water, others don't at all. The Wheaten's coat is very easy to maintain up to the age of 5 months. Between the ages of 9 months and 2 or 3 years, the hair will have a tendency to bunch together forming hairballs. As the Wheaten gets older the hair becomes less abundant, firmer and more manageable thereby making maintenance easier. Bathing your Wheaten should become a regular part of its maintenance program to be performed at least once a month or when needed. A gentle dog shampoo followed by a conditioner is recommended for this type of coat. The Wheaten likes to have a small space reserved as its own, its "house" in a sense, and this is why most breeders will suggest that new owners purchase a cage. This breed of dog is ranked in the "medium" intelligence range suggesting that it is eager to learn. Many Wheatens have stood out noticeably during obedience lessons. Are Wheatens good with children? They are generally very good, not only with kids but also with adults. Wheatens are known to have a friendly nature, be jovial and fun loving. Get ready to have the end of your nose and edge of your ears licked. Are they intelligent? Wheatens are considered to be fairly intelligent dogs and always ready to make their master happy. Training by positive reinforcement will bring best results rather than with physical interventions. Do they bark a lot? Wheatens are known to bark less than typical Terriers. Is this breed of dog very active? Wheatens adapt very well to their environment and do not necessitate an abundance of exercise. A Wheaten will happily follow you on your morning jog or adapt just as easily to a less active family. Do Wheatens require a special diet? Simply a well balanced diet, not too many proteins, prepared with a chicken or lamb base. When it comes to health, what are some things to watch for? Conscientious breeders are suppose to verify reproductive males before pairing to discern certain hereditary diseases such as hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy of the eyes and loss of protein in the blood. Due to these precautions it is preferable to buy a dog directly from a breeder rather than a pet shop. How much does a Wheaten cost? A very difficult question to answer since it can vary by region, availability or by the breeder from who you buy the puppy. Are these dogs suited for people with allergies? Wheatens are considered hypoallergenic; they do not lose their hair. Do they bring back objects that are thrown for them? Wheatens are very loveable and like to play with people. Wheatens like chasing after things you throw for them. By showing them games at a young age, they will bring you back objects and develop to be active participants for life. Do Wheatens like water? All dogs like water, but with a Wheaten, it is an acquired taste that varies by dog and it could be argued that, as many Wheatens like water, as many don't like it.Back to Top |
