
Wheaten Terriers are often considered a great option for families with allergies, but are they truly hypoallergenic?
Their single-layer coat sheds very little, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
While they may not be the best option for severe allergy sufferers, Wheaten Terriers can still be a great fit for families with mild allergies.
Their low-shedding coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, but this can be a great opportunity for owners to bond with their pets.
Wheaten Terriers are generally a healthy breed with a long lifespan, typically living between 12-15 years.
This means they can be a long-term companion for families, providing years of love and companionship.
Here's an interesting read: Are Great Danes Hypoallergenic Dogs
What are Terriers?
Terriers are a group of small to medium-sized dogs that originated in the British Isles. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin, small game, and larger game like badgers and foxes.
One of the defining characteristics of Terriers is their energetic and lively nature, which makes them great companions for active families. They are also known for their strong prey drive and can be quite stubborn at times.
The Irish Terrier and the Wheaten Terrier are two popular breeds that originated in Ireland and are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are also both considered to be relatively low-shedding breeds.
Terriers come in a variety of sizes, from the tiny Cairn Terrier to the larger Airedale Terrier.
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Terriers and Hypoallergenic
Terriers are a great option for dog owners with allergies, but not all Terrier breeds are considered hypoallergenic. Not every Terrier breed is classified as hypoallergenic.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one Terrier breed that is considered hypoallergenic. This is due to the characteristics of their fur, which is a single coat of hair that sheds very little.
A dog with a single coat of hair is quite similar to a human in that they don’t shed a large amount of hair each day.
Discover more: Do Hypoallergenic Dogs Have Hair or Fur
Terrier
Terriers are a wonderful breed, and one of the best things about them is their hypoallergenic qualities. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, for example, don't shed much, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies.
They have a soft, silky coat that requires regular grooming to remove dead hair and dander. This breed is often considered hypoallergenic, but it's essential to note that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. However, with proper care and grooming, Wheaten Terriers can make great pets for people with allergies.
One of the most significant benefits of Wheaten Terriers is their long lifespan. You can expect them to live around 12 to 14 years, which is relatively long-lived for a breed. This means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy their company and create lasting memories.
Wheaten Terriers are also known for their high energy levels and love of play. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. As a result, they make great companions for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.
Here are some key characteristics of Wheaten Terriers:
- Typical height: 17-19 inches (male), 17-18 inches (female)
- Typical weight: 30-40 pounds (female), 35-40 pounds (male)
- Coat length: Medium length, can be kept shorter or longer as needed
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
Overall, Wheaten Terriers are a wonderful breed that make great pets for people with allergies. With their hypoallergenic qualities, long lifespan, and loving nature, it's no wonder they're a popular choice among dog owners.
Are All Terriers Hypoallergenic?

Most Terrier breeds have low rates of shedding, meaning that they are less likely to spread dander, urine, and other allergens into an environment.
Terriers are considered an optimal breed for dog owners who suffer from allergies, but not every Terrier breed is classified as hypoallergenic.
A dog is considered hypoallergenic when its physical characteristics reduce the risk of exposure to dog-related allergens.
Terriers that have coarse hair that sheds minimally are a good choice for people with allergies, but even with these breeds, some individuals may still experience allergic reactions.
If you want an allergy-friendly Terrier, look for subtypes with coarse hair that sheds minimally, such as the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic, but keeping a Terrier well-groomed can make them a great pet for people with dog allergies.
Regular grooming can help remove dead hair and dander, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
Related reading: List of All Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Caring for Terriers
Wheaten Terriers need daily coat care to stay soft and silky, which involves brushing with a pin brush or slicker brush, followed by a metal comb to prevent matting.
Their coat sheds very little, but regular grooming can help remove dead hair and dander.
You should brush through your Wheaten Terrier's coat almost daily to keep it healthy.
A high-quality diet is essential for Wheaten Terriers, and you can work with your vet to create a homemade diet tailored to your dog's age, size, and health.
Too much food can cause your dog to become overweight, so monitor their food intake carefully.
Wheaten Terriers have a moderate amount of energy and need daily outdoor exercise, which can include fetch or chasing games to incorporate their prey drive.
They require a fenced play area to prevent them from running after cars or other animals if untethered.
Regular vet visits are crucial for monitoring your Wheaten Terrier's development and giving them necessary vaccines.
Adult terriers need annual checkups, while senior Wheaten Terriers require checkups every 6 months or as directed by your vet.
Maintaining their dental health is also essential, which can be done with daily teeth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings.
Check this out: Hypoallergenic Dog Breed
Terrier History and Facts
The Wheaten Terrier's ancestors were Irish terriers, specifically the Old Irish Terrier, which dates back to the 13th century.
These early terriers were bred to hunt small game, such as rodents and rabbits, and were known for their energetic and feisty personalities.
In the 19th century, the Wheaten Terrier was developed as a distinct breed, with a focus on its silky, single-layer coat that requires regular grooming.
The breed's name "Wheaten" comes from its original coat color, a golden wheaten hue that has been a hallmark of the breed since its inception.
Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 30-40 pounds and standing between 17-20 inches tall at the shoulder.
On a similar theme: Airedale Terrier Irish Terrier
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of the Wheaten terrier?
Wheaten Terriers are prone to several health issues, including digestive and kidney diseases, eye problems, and skin allergies, making regular veterinary care and genetic testing crucial. If you're considering bringing a Wheaten into your family, read more about their potential health concerns.
Do Wheaten terriers shed?
Wheaten Terriers are low shedders, but regular grooming is necessary to manage loose hair and dander. They're a great choice for those with dog allergies, but it's essential to maintain their coat to minimize allergen exposure.
Are soft coated wheaten Terriers high energy?
Yes, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise. Their energetic nature remains consistent throughout their lives, including old age.
Sources
- https://www.dogvills.com/soft-coated-wheaten-terrier-hypoallergenic-dog-breed/
- https://www.oodlelife.com/are-soft-coated-wheaten-terriers-hypoallergenic/
- https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/know-about-soft-coated-wheaten-terriers
- https://www.berkeleyparentsnetwork.org/advice/pets/dog_allergies
- https://maddoxwheatens.com/2020/04/06/is-a-wheaten-terrier-right-for-you/
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