The Wheaton Terrier is a small, affectionate dog breed that originated in the United States in the early 20th century. They were developed by crossing the Old English White Terrier with other breeds.
Wheaton Terriers typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds and stand between 10 and 14 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.
One of the best things about Wheaton Terriers is their friendly and outgoing personalities. They make great family pets and are often described as " Velcro dogs" because of their tendency to stick close to their owners.
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General Information
The Wheaton Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in England in the 19th century.
They are known for their short stature, typically weighing between 15-40 pounds and standing between 10-15 inches tall.
Wheaton Terriers are a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, requiring only occasional nail trimming and bathing.
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Physical Characteristics
The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier has a coat that's soft to the touch, unlike other terriers, and comes in a range of colors including beige, wheat, and gold.
Their face is graced by a "fall" of hair that needs precise grooming to maintain the breed's look and get a better view of the eyes.
Males are a little larger than females, with the breed being medium in height and weight, typically ranging from 17 to 20 inches in height and about 30 to 45 pounds in weight.
Their coat is not like most dogs, it doesn't shed like most dogs, and instead keeps growing like human hair and Poodle hair.
They do need regular grooming, including trimming and brushing and combing once a day to avoid mats.
Their coat can be influenced by their genetics, with some Wheatens having a thicker, silkier coat known as the Irish type.
The Irish type of coat is considered to be the original working coat and is well-received in the UK and Europe.
The Wheatens seen in Ireland today are of the same size, shape, and coat texture as those seen and documented well over 100 years ago.
Their coat requires daily brushing to stay free of matted hair, even if it's the Irish type.
Care and Maintenance
Your Wheaton terrier's grooming needs are considerable, requiring at least three times a week combing and brushing to prevent painful mats and remove accumulated mud, snow, and ice.
Daily attention to their coat isn't necessary, but regular grooming sessions will keep their coat looking its best.
Weekly ear cleanings are crucial to keeping your Wheaton healthy and well-groomed.
Trimming the fall and longer hair periodically will maintain your Wheaton's special look.
Nail trims and paw pad-hair trims are also essential to their overall health and well-being.
By following these grooming tips, you'll be able to keep your Wheaton looking and feeling their best.
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Behavior
The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is a friendly and loving breed that gets along well with children and other dogs if properly socialized. They are also very protective of their families.
They have a strong "prey drive" because of their vermin-hunting origin, which means they may not get along with cats if not socialized with them from an early age. This can be a problem when outside, so it's essential to keep them on a leash or in a secure area.
Wheatens are known for their "Wheaten greetin", a habit of jumping up to lick a person's face, which they love to do. They are also enthusiastic greeters and will often bark in alert at strangers.
These dogs require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, and they love to run around and play. A long walk and a chance to play fetch will satisfy their needs.
They are generally calm and docile, but still carry a classic Terrier confident streak. They are brave and will never back down from a fight, though they rarely start any conflicts.
Here are some tips for exercising your Wheaten:
- Take them on a long walk to satisfy their need for physical activity
- Play fetch or other games to keep them entertained
- Make sure they have plenty of opportunities to run around and play
- Keep them on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from getting into trouble
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of the Wheaten terrier?
Wheaten Terriers are prone to several health issues, including Addison's disease, renal dysplasia, protein-losing nephropathy, inflammatory bowel disease, and cataracts, which can lead to costly veterinary bills and a shorter lifespan. If you're considering bringing a Wheaten Terrier into your family, it's essential to be aware of these potential health risks and plan for regular veterinary care.
Is a Wheaten terrier a good family dog?
Yes, Wheaten Terriers are a great match for families due to their friendly, affectionate nature and high energy levels that make them perfect for active households. They thrive on interaction and attention, making them a loving addition to many family dynamics.
Do Wheatens like to cuddle?
Wheaten Terriers are affectionate dogs that love to cuddle and receive attention from their owners
Do soft coated wheaten terriers bark a lot?
Yes, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers can bark excessively if not properly trained. Proper training is essential to manage their barking and ensure a well-behaved companion.
Do soft coated Wheaten Terriers shed a lot?
Wheaten Terriers are low shedders, but regular grooming is necessary to remove dead hair and dander. With proper care, they can be a great choice for people with dog allergies.
Sources
- https://espree.com/BreedProfiler/soft-coated-wheaten-terrier-grooming-bathing-and-care
- https://www.omlet.us/breeds/dogs/soft_coated_wheaten_terrier/
- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/soft-coated-wheaten-terrier
- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/soft-coated-wheaten-terrier/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soft-coated_Wheaten_Terrier
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