Wheaten Terriers (Wheatens), like most terriers, were originally bred as hunters. Their strong and healthy physique coupled with their hunting instincts have made them agile and alert. This breed is more stable and steady as compared to most terriers as they were used as by Irish farmers as all-purpose dogs. Herding cattle and sheep are only a couple of traits. They are also great vermin hunters both in water and on land! They also serve as watch dogs that help protect a home. The following are some of the basic facts about Wheaten Terriers:
Wheaten Terrier Facts
- Rarely bark especially when it is unnecessary to do so and often reflect the moods of their household or those around them.
- Requires commitment and effort in training, but if trained properly, they are happy, easy going and friendly.
- Breed Category: Terrier
- Coat: single coat, medium length, silky and soft, wavy
- Coat Colours: Black coats when born, but lighten after roughly 2 years the colour of wheat grain
- Height: between 17 and 20 inches
- Weight: between 30 and 45 pounds
Health Issues with Wheatens
- Flea allergies
- Addison’s disease
- Easily get heat stroke
- Require daily combing to prevent their wavy and thick coat from tangling.
- Require nail trimming often
- Like most dogs, their eyes and ears should be checked and cleaned on a regular basis.
Wheaten Terrier History
The soft coated breed of terriers, shortly called as Wheatens, originated from Ireland and is one of the oldest variety of terriers. Some believe the breed was brought to the US in the 1940’s but some pictures suggest they were brought here in the late 1800’s. They get along well with older children and other animals within the household through proper training and attention. Like most terriers, they easily develop close affinity with family members so they normally appoint themselves as watch or guard dogs.
If you’d like to see images of a Wheaten Terrier that plays at Dog Day Getaway, check out Daisy the DDG Dog of the Month for January 2019!
