Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy, playful, and adaptable breed known for its distinctive soft, wavy coat. Originating in Ireland, they were working dogs on farms, herding livestock and dispatching vermin. Today, they make wonderful family companions.

Wheaten Terriers are known for their affectionate and gentle nature, especially with children. They are relatively low-shedding, which makes them popular with allergy sufferers, although regular grooming is required to maintain their coat. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them trainable, but they can also be independent and require consistent positive reinforcement.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originated in Ireland, likely several hundred years ago. They are believed to be related to the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Irish Terrier, although their exact origins are somewhat unclear. They were primarily working dogs, used by farmers for a variety of tasks.

For many years, Wheaten Terriers were considered "poor man's dogs" and were not recognized by kennel clubs. They remained relatively unknown outside of Ireland until the mid-20th century. The Irish Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1937, and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America was formed in 1962.

The breed gained popularity in the United States in the 1970s and has since become a beloved family pet around the world. Their friendly temperament, unique coat, and moderate size have contributed to their popularity.

Interesting facts about the breed

• Are Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers hypoallergenic? They are low-shedding, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic.
• They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
• Wheaten Terriers are prone to certain genetic health conditions, such as protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE).
• They have a "Wheaten greetin'," a jumping and enthusiastic greeting they often display.
• They are energetic and require daily exercise.
• Their coat changes from a darker color in puppyhood to a softer, wheat-colored hue as they mature.