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Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

Terrier Group

Friendly, energetic and playful

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

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Breed Overview

This breed is well-loved for its playful nature and striking coat, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height 17-19 inches at the shoulder
  • Weight 30-40 pounds
  • Life Span 12-15 years
  • Coat Soft, silky, and gently waving; the coat is a single layer with minimal shedding
  • Color Wheaten color, ranging from pale beige to bright gold
  • Grooming Requires regular brushing to prevent matting; professional grooming is recommended every few months
  • Temperament Friendly, playful, and affectionate; known for being deeply loyal to their families
  • Energy Level High; they require regular exercise and enjoy activities like walking, playing, and agility training
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Energetic, needs regular, playful exercise
  • Trainability Intelligent but sometimes stubborn; consistent, positive training methods work best
  • Socialization High; they thrive on human interaction and do well with children and other pets when socialized properly
  • Grooming Requires regular brushing to prevent matting; professional grooming is recommended every few months
  • Health Issues Prone to certain hereditary conditions like protein-losing nephropathy and protein-losing enteropathy; regular vet check-ups are important
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Best for active families, great with kids, affectionate, requires engagement and exercise
  • Suitable Living Space Best for homes with yards, adapts to apartments with regular exercise

About the Breed

Wheatens are known for their single-layered coat that minimally sheds, making them a good choice for those with mild allergies. They are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their families, thriving on human companionship.

History of the Breed

Originally bred in Ireland to be an all-purpose farm dog, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was tasked with herding, watching, and hunting vermin. They were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.

Fun Facts About the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Wheatens are known for their unique 'wheaten greetin',' where they show affection enthusiastically.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier were once considered the poor man's dog in Ireland, as only nobles could own hounds.

Wheatens are known for their enduring puppy-like energy, maturing fully around two to three years old.

    What To Expect When Caring For a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

    Health

    Prone to certain genetic conditions like protein-losing nephropathy and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor their health.

    Grooming

    Requires regular brushing to prevent mats. Bathing every 1-2 months with a mild shampoo is recommended. Professional grooming every few months can help maintain their coat’s condition.

    Exercise

    Needs daily exercise such as walks, playtime, or agility training. Enjoys interactive activities that stimulate both mind and body.

    Training

    Intelligent but can be stubborn; requires consistent, positive reinforcement training. Early socialization is crucial to develop a well-rounded temperament.

    Nutrition

    Requires a balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level. It's important to monitor their food intake as they can be prone to obesity.

    Caring for a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can be a rewarding experience. They are excellent companions who bring joy and energy to any home. With proper care, training, and love, a Wheaten can be a wonderful addition to your family.

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Owners and potential owners need to be aware of these conditions and the recommended tests to ensure the health and well-being of their dogs.

    Description: A kidney disorder where the kidneys leak protein into the urine. It can lead to kidney failure if not managed properly.

    Recommended Test: Blood and Urine Tests: Regular blood and urine tests can help detect PLN and PLE early, as well as monitor kidney and liver function.

    Description: This condition involves the loss of proteins through the gastrointestinal tract, leading to various complications like malnutrition and immune disorders.

    Recommended Test: Genetic Testing: Genetic tests can identify if a dog carries genes associated with certain diseases prevalent in the breed, such as PLN and PLE.

    Description: A hormonal disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones, impacting various bodily functions.

    Recommended Test: Adrenal Function Test: This test is crucial for diagnosing Addison's Disease and involves measuring the dog’s response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

    Description: A developmental disorder of the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.

    Recommended Test: Blood and Urine Tests: Regular blood and urine tests can help detect PLN and PLE early, as well as monitor kidney and liver function.

    Description: Wheatens can suffer from a variety of allergies, including food allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies, which can cause skin irritations and other health issues.

    Recommended Test: Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, specific tests can identify triggers and help in formulating a management or treatment plan.

    Description: This is a common condition in many dog breeds where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.

    Recommended Test: Hip Evaluation: X-rays and orthopedic evaluations can help detect early signs of hip dysplasia.

    Protein-Losing Nephropathy (PLN)

    Description: A kidney disorder where the kidneys leak protein into the urine. It can lead to kidney failure if not managed properly.

    Recommended Test: Blood and Urine Tests: Regular blood and urine tests can help detect PLN and PLE early, as well as monitor kidney and liver function.

    Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE)

    Description: This condition involves the loss of proteins through the gastrointestinal tract, leading to various complications like malnutrition and immune disorders.

    Recommended Test: Genetic Testing: Genetic tests can identify if a dog carries genes associated with certain diseases prevalent in the breed, such as PLN and PLE.

    Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)

    Description: A hormonal disorder where the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones, impacting various bodily functions.

    Recommended Test: Adrenal Function Test: This test is crucial for diagnosing Addison's Disease and involves measuring the dog’s response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

    Renal Dysplasia

    Description: A developmental disorder of the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.

    Recommended Test: Blood and Urine Tests: Regular blood and urine tests can help detect PLN and PLE early, as well as monitor kidney and liver function.

    Allergies

    Description: Wheatens can suffer from a variety of allergies, including food allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies, which can cause skin irritations and other health issues.

    Recommended Test: Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, specific tests can identify triggers and help in formulating a management or treatment plan.

    Hip Dysplasia

    Description: This is a common condition in many dog breeds where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.

    Recommended Test: Hip Evaluation: X-rays and orthopedic evaluations can help detect early signs of hip dysplasia.

    Being proactive in health management, including regular vet visits and appropriate tests, is key to ensuring a long, healthy life for a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.

    Prescription Medication Assistance for Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

    The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

    How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?

    Caring for a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, like any pet, involves various expenses. The annual cost can vary depending on several factors your location, the dog’s age and health, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

    A purebred Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

    Initial Cost

    $1000 - 2500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier enthusiasts.

    Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

    Initial Cost

    $200 - 500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

    High-quality dog food and treats for a medium breed.

    Estimated Cost

    $600 - 1200

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Learn more about the best quality dog food for Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers.

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier require regular grooming

    Estimated Cost

    $300 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

    Estimate Cost

    $200 - 500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

    Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

    Your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

    Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

    Estimated Cost

    $250 - 700

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

    Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

    If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

    A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

    Estimated Cost

    $35 - 70

    Total Estimated Annual Cost:

    $2885 - $6970

    It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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