Soft Coated Wheaten TerrierCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says the breed's history is somewhat obscured by its closeness to the other Irish terrier breeds, but the Wheaten is probably the oldest of the four. Its existence for at least 200 years is shown by texts that mention “soft-coated” dogs. It was used by small farmers to catch vermin and help on the farm, but also for the hard work of hunting badgers and otters.

Wikipedia says it was an all-round farm dog: it drove livestock, guarded them and hunted vermin. Despite its long history, it was officially recognised by the Irish Kennel Club only in 1937, and since then it has become known all over the world.

How the breed developed

• More than 200 years ago – The “soft-coated” dog of Irish farmers.
• 1937 – Recognition by the Irish Kennel Club.
• 26 February 1957 – The FCI recognises the breed.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a hardy, active, short-backed, well-built dog that gives an impression of strength, neither too tall nor too low. The AKC says it stands out for its soft, silky, gently waving coat in a warm wheaten colour and for its very steady disposition.

General appearance

It has a single coat, soft and silky to the touch, not harsh. On the head, the hair falls forward and shades the eyes. In puppies and adolescents, the wavy adult coat is not yet visible. Trimming is permitted.

The colour is a clear wheaten, in shades from light wheaten to golden reddish. Wikipedia says its Irish name, “An Brocaire Buí”, means “the yellow terrier”.

The standard describes it as spirited and game, good-tempered, most affectionate and loyal, highly intelligent, a trusty companion that defends without aggression. Wikipedia says it is usually friendly and playful and gets on well with children and other dogs.

Like any terrier, it needs consistent, reward-based training and early socialisation.

Tips for effective training

• Use rewards. It is sensitive and affectionate.
• Be consistent. It has a terrier's spirit.
• Teach it not to jump up at people. It shows its joy with enthusiasm.
• Keep it on the lead. It may run after small animals.

It is an energetic terrier that needs daily walks and play. It does well at agility and obedience.

Tips for a balanced life

• Be ready for daily brushing.
• Keep it on a lead in the street.
• Check the ears often.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says the soft, silky coat needs a fair amount of grooming: daily brushing with a pin brush or a slicker brush, then combing with a medium and fine metal comb. Tangles are worked out with the brush, the comb and the fingers. The AKC gives it 1 out of 5 for shedding.

Common health problems

The AKC says Wheatens are generally healthy, and responsible breeders check their dogs for:

Other care

• Have yearly urine and blood tests done.
• Check the ears regularly.
• Ask for the parents' health tests.

The AKC recommends good-quality food suited to the dog's age, and attention to its weight.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Treats count towards the daily portion.
• Split the food into two meals a day.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs under the coat without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months. Most breeds become adults at around 13–15 months.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In dogs, a litter has 5–6 puppies on average, and the number rises with the size of the breed. Socialisation starts in the first weeks: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• “The yellow terrier”. That is what its Irish name means.
• The oldest Irish terrier. The standard considers it probably the oldest of the four.
• A coat with no undercoat. It has a single, soft coat.
• Recognised late. Only in 1937, in Ireland.
• A farm dog. It drove livestock, guarded and hunted vermin.

Does it shed?

Very little; the AKC gives it 1 out of 5.

Is it good with children?

Yes; the AKC gives it the top score.

How often does it need brushing?

Every day.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 12–14 years.