Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier — Breed Profile
"Friendly, happy, deeply devoted, steady"
Irish teddy bear with terrier spirit
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Active families with children, owners committed to regular grooming, homes with moderate to large space, owners seeking a playful and friendly companion
Not Ideal For
First-time owners without time for grooming, apartment dwellers without outdoor access, owners seeking a low-maintenance coat, people with limited exercise time
Health Considerations
Hip dysplasia, Addison's disease, protein-losing enteropathy, otitis externa
Estimated annual vet cost: $1,000-$1,500
Breed History
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originated in Ireland as a farm dog used for herding and hunting. Named for its distinctive silky, wheat-colored coat, the breed was developed over centuries in rural Ireland before gaining international recognition in the 20th century.
Fun Facts
- Wheatens have two distinct coat types: the silky Irish coat and the thicker American coat
- The breed is known for the 'Wheaten grin,' a characteristic expression
- Despite being terriers, they are notably friendly and lack aggressive tendencies
- Their coat is low-shedding, making them suitable for some allergy sufferers
- The breed was primarily kept by Irish farmers and not widely known outside Ireland until the 1940s
Famous Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
Unknown