The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized bundle of joy, renowned for its exuberant personality and unique, flowing coat of warm wheaten gold. Often called the “Wheaten Greetin’,” this breed is characterized by its effervescent and friendly nature, setting it apart from the more aloof or feisty typical terrier temperament. They are a spirited, playful, and deeply affectionate family dog that thrives on human companionship.
This comprehensive guide will explore everything a future owner needs to know about the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier to help you decide if this happy-go-lucky and energetic breed is the right fit for your home.
Breed Overview
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 17 – 19 inches (at the shoulder)
- Weight: 30 – 40 pounds
- Life Span: 12 – 15 years
- Coat: A single, soft, silky, and wavy coat that flows as they move. It is the color of ripened wheat—a warm golden hue. It sheds very little but requires dedicated maintenance. Puppies are born with a darker, reddish-brown coat that lightens as they mature.
A Brief History: The All-Purpose Irish Farm Dog
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of three native Irish terrier breeds (alongside the Irish and Kerry Blue). For centuries, they were the versatile “poor man’s dog” on Irish farms, serving as a herder of cattle and sheep, a ratter, and a watchdog. Their “soft coat” was a practical requirement, as a hard coat would trap dirt and moisture in the field. They were a well-kept secret in Ireland until the 1930s when they were officially recognized and began their journey to international popularity.
The Wheaten Temperament: The Joyful “Wheaten Greetin'”
The Wheaten’s personality is their biggest selling point. They are best known for their happy, friendly, and sometimes goofy demeanor.
- Affectionate & People-Oriented: Wheatens are quintessential family dogs. They form strong bonds with all members of the family and are known for their gentle and loving nature with children.
- Energetic & Playful: They retain a puppy-like exuberance well into adulthood. Their famous “Wheaten Greetin'” is a joyful, bouncing leap to lick your face upon your return, which requires training to manage.
- Friendly & Social: Unlike many terriers, Wheatens are typically outgoing and friendly with strangers and other dogs when properly socialized. They lack the typical terrier “edge.”
- Intelligent & Eager to Please: They are smart and generally more biddable than other terriers, making them a good fit for novice dog owners who can provide consistent training.
- Soft & Sensitive: They respond very poorly to harsh correction. Their training requires a positive, patient, and gentle approach.
Caring for Your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Exercise: High Needs
This is an active breed bred for a day’s work on the farm. They need ample opportunity to burn off their energy.
- Daily Requirements: At least 45-60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily is a must. This should include long walks, jogging, hiking, and active off-leash play in a secure area.
- Mental Stimulation: Their intelligence demands engagement. They excel in dog sports like agility, barn hunt, and obedience. Puzzle toys and training games are excellent for tiring them out mentally.
Grooming: A Significant Commitment
The Wheaten’s beautiful, low-shedding coat is high-maintenance and requires a dedicated routine to prevent matting.
- The Full Coat: Maintaining the traditional long coat requires a thorough brushing session every other day, without fail. Using a pin brush and a metal comb to work through the entire coat down to the skin is essential to prevent painful mats from forming.
- The “Puppy Cut”: Most pet owners opt for a shorter, practical “puppy” or “teddy bear” cut from a professional groomer every 6-8 weeks. This drastically reduces daily maintenance but still requires regular brushing several times a week.
- Other Needs: Regular ear cleaning (their floppy ears can trap moisture), weekly teeth brushing, and keeping the hair around their mouth trimmed for cleanliness (they can be messy drinkers).
Training: Consistency and Positive Fun
Training a Wheaten is generally a joyful experience due to their eagerness to please, but their excitable nature can be a challenge.
- Start Early: Early and extensive socialization is crucial to help manage their exuberant greeting behavior and build their confidence.
- Housetraining: This can sometimes be a challenge. Consistency and a predictable schedule are key to success.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: They are sensitive souls who thrive on praise, play, and food rewards. Keep training sessions short, fun, and engaging to hold their attention.
- Mouthing & Jumping: Their playful nature often includes mouthing (especially as puppies) and the famous “Wheaten Greetin'” jump. Consistent training from day one to redirect this behavior onto toys and to teach “four on the floor” is essential.
Health: What to Be Aware Of
Wheatens are generally healthy, but like all purebred dogs, they are prone to certain hereditary conditions.
- Protein-Losing Nephropathy (PLN): A serious kidney condition where protein is lost through the urine. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs for this through a urine test.
- Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE): A similar condition affecting the intestines, where protein is lost through the digestive tract.
- Addison’s Disease: A disorder of the adrenal glands that can be managed with medication but is life-threatening if undiagnosed.
- Hip Dysplasia: A common skeletal condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together perfectly, which can lead to arthritis.
Is a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Right For You?
A Wheaten might be your perfect match if you:
- Want an energetic, joyful, and deeply affectionate family dog.
- Have an active lifestyle and can provide plenty of daily exercise.
- Have the time and budget for a rigorous grooming routine.
- Appreciate a friendly, outgoing dog that gets along well with people and other dogs.
- Are a patient owner who can provide gentle, consistent training.
You might want to reconsider if you:
- Want a low-energy or low-maintenance breed.
- Are unable to commit to their significant daily exercise needs.
- Are unprepared for the challenges of grooming a long, wavy coat.
- Prefer a calm, reserved, or independent dog.
- Are bothered by a dog that may be boisterous and jumpy without consistent training.
Finding Your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Reputable Breeders: Choose a breeder who does full health testing on their breeding stock, including screenings for PLN/PLE (urine test), hip dysplasia, and eyes. They should be able to discuss these health issues knowledgeably.
- Rescue & Shelters: Breed-specific rescues for Wheaten Terriers are active and well-organized. Adopting an adult can be a wonderful way to provide a second chance to a dog in need.
- Understanding the Cost: The initial purchase price from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,000+. Prospective owners must budget for significant ongoing costs, primarily professional grooming ($70-$100+ per session every 6-8 weeks for life), high-quality food, and potential veterinary care.
Bringing a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier into your life means welcoming a whirlwind of happiness, love, and silky, flying fur. In return for your dedicated exercise, consistent grooming, and positive training, you will gain an endlessly loyal, playful, and affectionate companion whose joyful spirit is utterly contagious.
