What Is a Wheaten Terrier?

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a relative newcomer to North America, but has been known in Ireland for over 200 years.  Legend has it that this is the oldest of native Irish breeds, sharing a common ancestry with the Kerry Blue and Irish "Red" Terriers.  The Wheaten Terriers were the commoners' farm dogs, used for hunting vermin, herding domestic farm animals and often sharing a day hunting with his master.  It is only recently that the Wheaten Terrier has become known in the show ring.  This breed was first introduced to North America in the early 1960s and gained official recognition by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1979.  Since then the breed has been gaining popularity, largely due to their friendly, easy-going temperment and their non-allergenic coat.  An active, fun loving dog, the Wheaten Terrier lacks the more assertive nature of other Terriers.  He is a playful yet gentle dog, and exceptionally good with children.

The most distinguishing feature of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the abundant, flowing, blond coat which does not shed.  The texture is soft and silky, falling in loose waves that can vary in colour from a pale honey to a warm, rich gold.  Ideally, the adult coat should be the colour of ripe wheat.  There may often be black or grey shading on the ears or muzzle but there should not be black or grey patches on the body.  Puppies are generally born a dark butterscotch colour, often with a black face or black shadings on the body, but this quickly lightens to a very pale honey colour as adolescents.  Some young Wheatens (Age 12-18 months) may appear almost white.  This is not unusual.  Full adult colour and texture of coat are seen after 2 years of age.  The Wheaten is a medium sized breed; males stand 18"-19" at the shoulder and females stand 17"-18".  Average weight for a male is 35-40 lbs and for a female is 30-35 lbs.  In general, the appearance of a Wheaten Terrier resembles a Kerry Blue Terrier or a small Bouvier.  The body is square in outline; the head rectangular.  Size and bone are moderate but appear heavier due to the profuse coat.  Expression is alert and lively, the gait free, self-assured and graceful.  The coat is trimmed to present a neat appearance.

Overall, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a real Irish Charmer.  However, this is not the ideal breed for everyone.  The coat requires a fair bit of regular brushing and combing to keep it tangle-free and clean.  Wheatens often have sensitive skin so regular brushing is a must.  Trimming is also required on a regular basis to keep the dog tidy.  The Wheaten is an energetic dog and needs time and space to burn off excess energy.  Sometimes Wheatens are too exuberant to be around small children.  Most of all, the Wheaten is a "people dog" and thrives on lots of love and attention that cannot be left alone in a kennel.  Wheatens love to show their affection by frequently kissing and licking their human friends.  For someone willing to spend the necessary time and love with a Wheaten Terrier, he will be well rewarded with a delightful companion and friend.