Soft Coated Wheaten

Listed in the Terrier group, originally bred in Ireland for farm work, this is a medium sized terrier that unlike many other terriers sports a thick, soft coat. Ranging in size from 18-20 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 30-50 pounds, the Wheaten is a sturdy, active dog that is adaptable to many lifestyles.

The personality of the Wheaten is that of a rough and tumble type that can handle many different activities and dog sports. He is tenacious and tough, extremely intelligent, loves to play, and makes a great jogging or hiking partner, or family playmate. He loves to swim and play fetch, and is a loving and loyal pet. A bit willful, the Wheaten does best in a home where early socialization and obedience takes place so that clear boundaries are set in the home. He is well suited to positive training methods as he thrives on praise. This medium sized dog is well suited to a variety of lifestyles where he is included in family activities.

The Wheaten coat is soft, thick and dense, shaggy in appearance and considered both minimal to non-shedding and hypo-allergenic, making the breed a good choice for many allergy sufferers. His coat is maintained with frequent brushing to prevent matting and if not left shaggy and natural, optional clipping or stripping can be done to shorten the coat, making it easier to care for. Coloring is always wheatenwhich is dark, almost black as a puppy and lightens to a wheaten shade of beige as they mature. The tail is docked short. Average lifespan is 10-14 years.