Family: terrier
Area of Origin: Ireland
Date of Origin: 1700s
Original Function: vermin hunting, herding,
guardian
Today's Function: companion
Avg Size of male: Height: 18-19 Weight:
35-40
Avg Size of Female: Height: 17-18 Weight:
30-35
Other Name: none
History
One of only three large terriers of Ireland, the
soft-coated Wheaten terrier originated as an all-around
farm dog, perhaps serving in this function for hundreds
of years. Besides the ever-essential terrier function of
extinguishing vermin, it also helped round up stock and
guard the homestead. It was later even known to be
trained as a gun dog. Its early history is largely
undocumented; however, it is mentioned as a progenitor
of the Kerry blue terrier. The Wheaten was a comparative
latecomer to the show scene. Only in 1937 was it granted
breed status in Ireland. For many years, an Irish
championship required that a dog not only prove itself
in the ring but also in the field over badger, rat and
rabbit. The English Kennel Club recognized the breed in
1943, and in 1946 the first Wheaten came to America. The
breed did not instantly catch the public's attention,
but instead it took its time building a firm basis of
support. In 1973 the AKC granted recognition. The
soft-coated Wheaten terrier has remained a breed of only
moderate popularity.
Temperament
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 (although
some may be overly boisterous with small children) and
usually good with other household dogs and pets. It may
dig or jump.
Upkeep
This is an athletic dog that needs a good daily workout,
either in the form of a moderate to long walk or an
invigorating game in the yard. It should be allowed
loose only in a safe area because it still loves to hunt
and chase. The Wheaten can live outdoors in temperate
climates, but it is far better suited as an indoor dog.
Its long coat needs brushing or combing every two days.
As a nonshedding dog, loose hair becomes entangled in
the coat and will mat if not combed out. Bathing and
trimming every other month is necessary to maintain the
desirable coat and silhouette; pets can be better
managed if their coats are clipped to about 3 inches,
but then they lose the breed's typical outline.
Health
• Major concerns: protein wasting diseases (PLE and PLN)
• Minor concerns: renal dysplasia, allergies
• Occasionally seen: PRA, CHD, vWD, heart problems
• Suggested tests: blood and urine protein screens, eye,
(hip), (cardiac)
• Life span: 12-14 years
Form and Function
The soft-coated Wheaten terrier is an all-around dog,
square-proportioned, graceful and strong, not
exaggerated in any way. It is large enough to function
as a general farm worker yet agile enough to perform its
job as vermin exterminator. Its gait is free and lively
with good reach and drive; the tail held erect. Its
abundant, soft, single coat distinguishes it from all
other terriers. It is long and silky with a gentle wave.
The overall appearance is one of grace and strength in
an alert and happy dog.
Related Dogs
American Staffordshire Terrier
Australian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Border Terrier
Bull Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Irish Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier
Wire Fox Terrier