Cluster: terrier group

Height: 17-19 inches tall at the shoulders

Weight: 30-40 pounds

12-15 years

Why the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is Great for Families

The smooth-coated Wheaten Terrier is a friendly, fun-loving family dog. This breed is very adaptable; they can live happily in a single-family house or an apartment. They love both urban and rural settings, and can thrive in both. They love children and get along with both toddlers and older children. Wheaten Terriers are a high-energy breed when they are puppies. They love to play, jump and run; they love to explore when the weather is nice and snow falls. They are a robust breed that can withstand rough play from children if necessary. This breed also enjoys the company of other animals and makes a great family addition when there are other pets in the home.

The Wheaten Terrier will protect the family by barking to alert the pack. This breed is a loyal lap dog that will enjoy lying with its head in your lap, while you watch TV or read a book. These dogs can handle short periods alone, but they prefer to be around people, they like company and closeness.

They are headstrong dogs that may have a mind of their own. They need a firm training regimen, not aggressive, but assertive and consistent. They will also need a lot of early socialization experience in different environments and social settings to develop into a well-rounded dog as they get older. Lack of adequate daily exercise, too much alone time, and a lack of stimulating socialization will cause this active and intelligent breed to become fearful and aggressive. They love the opportunity to think and solve problems, they love dog brain games, and they do well with challenges like agility.

exercise requirements

The Wheaten Terrier needs to live in the family home with the people who love the dog the most. These dogs are not meant to be outdoor dogs. They need adequate time outdoors for about an hour or more a day. Multiple short walks will suffice, or 2-3 longer walks a day will also be great. They love goal-oriented games that develop their training skills, such as agility. They also enjoy brain challenges like brain games or tracking games.

grooming needs
Wheaten Terriers are hypoallergenic. They have light coats and light skin. They do shed, but the fur is generally not irritating. Their medium-length coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting. Their fur is known to bring dust, dirt, and snow into their homes. So this is a breed that will require more time to groom afterwards. Monthly bathing is recommended and professional grooming is an option for classic haircuts. You can also maintain the coat yourself if you learn how and purchase the suggested tools.

History of the Wheaten Terrier

Wheaten Terriers probably originated from the Kerri Blue Terrier and the Irish Terrier. The breed was first recognized by the Irish Kennel Club on Saint Patrick’s Day in 1937.

The first Wheaten Terriers arrived in the United States in November 1946. They slowly gained popularity in the United States. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973. Today, the breed ranks 62nd out of 155 breeds.

Wheaten Terrier Health
These days, the veterinary landscape is changing rapidly. It is definitely a for profit business now more than ever. Pet insurance is a purchasable benefit that entitles your pet to many diagnostic medical investigations, including EKGs, CT and MRI scans, advanced dental care, and complex surgeries. Develop a good relationship with your vet so that you feel comfortable with them caring for your dog throughout his life. A trusting relationship with your vet is important as some decisions will be more difficult than others.

Wheaten Terriers will generally be born healthy and should be sold with a strong health certificate from a reputable breeder. However, as dogs age, they become more prone to specific health problems that are common to the breed. Your dog is not likely to develop all of them, but it is likely that he will experience one or two health problems at some point in his life. The older the dog, the more likely he is to have multiple problems. Some health conditions common to the breed are:

protein losing nephropathy – A chronic and progressive condition with gradual symptoms of weight loss, swelling of the abdomen, increased thirst and urination, shortness of breath, and eventually kidney failure. The diagnosis is confirmed by blood tests and imaging tests. A vet can recommend a specialized diet and medication to relieve your dog’s symptoms. However, medication doses can be increased as conditions worsen over time.

protein losing enteropathy – A chronic and progressive condition with gradual symptoms similar to the above, weight loss, swollen abdomen, increased thirst and increased urination, progressing to shortness of breath. A diagnosis is made after the analysis of imaging analysis of blood tests of the heart and kidneys. Symptoms can be controlled with diet and specialized medications, but as the disease progresses, medication doses will need to be increased. Owners will need to continually assess the dog’s quality of life and also how they are constantly feeling and managing to care for a sick pet.

Addison’s disease – Usually an inherent disease that can develop over time. Symptoms can include lack of appetite, vomiting, fatigue, and lethargy. The symptoms are usually quite vague. If the vet suspects Addison’s disease, he will usually perform blood tests and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.

kidney dysplasia – Abnormal kidney development. Young dogs will experience symptoms such as increased thirst and increased urination, lack of appetite, vomiting, and frequent urinary tract infections. These congenital problems lead to the early development of kidney disease and ultimately kidney failure.

Wheaten Terriers seem particularly prone to kidney problems. However, with the help of a supportive vet, you will have options for better care. Understand that modified diets and specific medication can often help prolong life. You can accept a new normal if you need to adjust at some point in your dog’s life.