The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originated in Ireland over 200 years ago. She was bred as an all-purpose farm dog used to herd and guard livestock and to control vermin populations. Wheatens have a shiny and silky single layer coat that sheds minimally but does require regular grooming. Wheaten Terriers are highly spirited and retain their puppy attitude throughout their lifetime. They are notorious for jumping vigorously and twirling when happy or excited: the “Wheaten greeting. ” Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are great playmates for older children and do well with other dogs. They are intelligent and people-oriented dogs that prefer to be included in all family activities. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 13-15 years.
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Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers as Watch Dogs?
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is named after its silky, soft coat. Their wheaten color is a darker brown shade as puppies and gets lighter until they are about 2 years old. Originating in Ireland, this breed was brought to the United States in 1946. This pup has many skills, often used as a farm dog, herding, hunting, and patrolling the land. They make a great watch dog and will alert you when someone is at the door. Playful and outgoing, this high energy dog needs daily exercise. It is good to train proper behavior at an early age, especially if you have other pets. Firm and consistent training is best. Do not allow them to jump on humans because it is how they show their dominance. As for grooming, comb them regularly. Avoid brushing because it will make their coat fuzzy. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.
Are Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers Aggressive?
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier does well with behaved children, or children they’ve grown alongside since both were infants. Due to their prey-drive, if the child plays too hard, they can be a bit aggressive in return (with a tendency to chase them around or nibble). They’re not a yappy breed, but they’ll bark if they want to, and that’ll scare children. It’s generally recommended that either they’re introduced at a very young age, or the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier joins a family with older children.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers Background
Background:200 years ago terriers would have been used in Ireland for herding, watching livestock, and vermin control. Unlike other terriers however, the Wheaten was a poor man’s dog. His duties would have been no different but he might not have had the same social status as other terriers. The bloodlines of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier are something of a mystery. This breed is a latecomer and wasn’t recognized by the Irish Kennel Club until 1937. The Wheaten was brought into the Unites States in the 1940’s by Lydia Vogel, who lived in Massachusetts. Breeding didn’t take place until the 1950’s.
Family and Bonding
Originally from Ireland, many love the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier temperament for his playful and kind nature. Wheaten owners consider them to be the perfect companion.
Friendly
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is often a friendly, happy and deeply devoted breed. Their demeanor is often times described as alert and responsive. But as the dog ages and reaches its senior years, their temperament can become less predictable. While a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier typically is energetic, as they get older their energy levels tend to gradually fade which can lead to obesity. A dutiful owner of a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier should take time to find the right dog food for a senior Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier to help keep energy levels up and their weight controlled.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Nature
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are an active, playful breed of dogs. They are confident and happy. Training one will require consistency and patience as they are quite strong-willed. They are very friendly but make good watchdogs because of their observant nature. They are said to be the most active in the terrier group. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are exuberant greeters. They jump high to kiss the face of their owners. They also love children and can live with other animals if socialized with them from an early age. In general, they are affectionate, protective and friendly dogs.
Intelligence
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier characteristics make them a relatively docile breed. They also have an intelligence that allows them to learn easily. They can certainly be a handful, but are by-in-large adaptable and can even live in apartments (permitted they have enough socialization and exercise). Puppy classes are a big must with this breed, as they can often be independent to the point of rebelliousness. If they’re taught to be obedient, and you establish yourself as the alpha of the household and use a positive reward system, their path to adulthood should be paved by the personality they’re coveted for.
Love
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers as a Pack Animal
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a confident, spirited breed that is affectionate and intelligent. The breed is less feisty and argumentative than some other terriers and is faithful and protective, but not aggressive. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is usually good with all the family and its playful character means it gets on well with children. However, the breed can be boisterous so is best supervised around younger children.
Physical Traits
Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Wheatie live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine.