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Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium terrier breed from Ireland also known as Wheaten, Irish Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier.

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Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

Breed overview

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium terrier breed from Ireland also known as Wheaten, Irish Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier.

One of the four terrier breeds native to Ireland, the Wheaten was the poor man's dog, a versatile farm dog used for herding, guarding, and vermin control. Despite being an ancient breed, they weren't officially recognized in Ireland until 1937.

People looking into Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 30–40 lbs • 17–19 in.

WheatenIrish Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

History and origin

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is tied to originating from Ireland, specifically Irish countryside, with sources often placing its development around 1700 CE.

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is described here as placed in the Terrier group and marked as an established breed.

One of the four terrier breeds native to Ireland, the Wheaten was the poor man's dog, a versatile farm dog used for herding, guarding, and vermin control. Despite being an ancient breed, they weren't officially recognized in Ireland until 1937.

Browse dog breeds from Ireland Browse more Terrier breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Terrier
Size
Medium
Origin country
Ireland
Region
Irish countryside
Origin year
1700 CE
Weight
30–40 lbs
Height
17–19 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

SoftSilkyWavy

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized with square, well-balanced body
  • Soft, silky, wavy coat in warm wheaten color
  • Rectangular head with folded ears
  • Abundant beard and eyebrows

What this breed is known for

  • One of the four terrier breeds native to Ireland, the Wheaten was the poor man's dog, a versatile farm dog used for herding, guarding, and vermin control. Despite being an ancient breed, they weren't officially recognized in Ireland until 1937.
  • Unlike many terriers, Wheatens have a soft, silky coat that doesn't shed much but grows continuously, requiring regular grooming. Puppies are born dark in color and gradually lighten to their adult wheaten color as they mature.
  • Known as the 'poor man's wolfhound,' Wheatens are less scrappy than typical terriers and have an exceptionally joyful temperament. They're known for the 'Wheaten greeting'—an exuberant hello with jumping and abundant face licking.

Health and care notes

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Kidney Disease
  • Eye Conditions
  • Heart Disease

Coat details: Soft, Silky, Wavy

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier come from?

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is closely associated with Ireland, especially Irish countryside in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier get?

Typical size details for Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier on this page are 30–40 lbs, 17–19 in, 12–14 years.

What is the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier known for?

One of the four terrier breeds native to Ireland, the Wheaten was the poor man's dog, a versatile farm dog used for herding, guarding, and vermin control. Despite being an ancient breed, they weren't officially recognized in Ireland until 1937.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.