Meet the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
As its name implies, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is prized for its coat, which is soft, silky, with a gentle wave, and of warm wheaten color. Underneath, however, is a formidable dog that leaves no doubt as to his terrier origins. Square and medium-sized, he is happy, steady, self-confident and alert to his surroundings.
Breeds Origins
Known for more than 200 years in Ireland, the "Wheaten" shares common ancestry with the Kerry Blue and the Irish Terrier, but was not owned by the landed gentry. They were the poor man's dog, an all-purpose farm dog, given to patrolling the borders of small farms, ridding them of vermin, herding sheep and hunting with his master.
Wheaten Terrier Color
Any shade of wheaten. Upon close examination, occasional red, white or black guard hairs may be found. However, the overall coloring must be clearly wheaten with no evidence of any other color except on ears and muzzle where blue-gray shading is sometimes present. Major Fault--Any color save wheaten. Puppies and Adolescents--Puppies under a year may carry deeper coloring and occasional black tipping. The adolescent, under two years, is often quite light in color, but must never be white or carry gray other than on ears and muzzle. However, by two years of age, the proper wheaten color should be obvious.
Temperament
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is strong, agile and well-coordinated. It is a happy, playful, spirited and friendly terrier. Alert, it makes a great watchdog and barks at the arrival of guests. It is usually very loving with children and gets along reasonably well with other dogs. They are sweet-tempered, docile and self-confident. Wheatens are probably the most social breed of terriers. They display little dog-dog aggressiveness and are less territorial as well. They will get along with other household pets, especially if the introductions and adjustments take place while the dog is young.
Is the Soft Coat Wheaten Terrier the Right Breed for You?
Wheaten Terriers tend to be less scrappy than other terriers but they are true terriers and will be more active than many other breeds, enjoying plenty of exercise every day. They relate well to children and can adapt to city, country, and suburban life. The Wheaten is single coated and sheds minimally, but needs regular grooming to keep its coat mat free. The Wheaten makes a playful companion at home and a fun-loving partner in the field. It is affectionate, congenial and much gentler than most terriers. It is generally responsive to its owner's wishes but can be headstrong at times. It is good with children and usually good with other household dogs and pets. It may dig or jump.
AKC RANKING
58
FAMILY
Terrier
AREA OF ORIGIN
Ireland
DATE OF ORIGIN
1700s
ORIGINAL FUNCTION
Vermin hunting, herding, guardian
TODAY'S FUNCTION
Companion
AVERAGE SIZE OF MALE
Height: 18-19" Weight: 35-40 lbs.
AVERAGE SIZE OF FEMALE
Height: 17-18" Weight: 30-35 lbs.
New York Wheaten Terrier
www.NewYorkWheatenTerrier.com
(631) 513-8257
Breed Info
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