Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

The stylish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier originated in Ireland during the 1700's. It was used for herding cattle and also for ratting. This adept hunter is likely the oldest terrier breed in Ireland and one of the likely progenitors of the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Irish Terrier. It developed into a healthy and hardy dog because over the centuries it was kept by the farmers whose guiding breeding principle was "survival of the fittest". The breed was first shown at a championship show in Ireland in 1937, and in the same year was listed as one of the native breeds of Ireland. It was recognized by the English kennel Club in 1943. It was first imported to the USA in 1946, and finally was recognized by the AKC in 1973.

Height: 17" (43.2cm) for dogs, 17" (43.2cm) for bitches

Weight: 30 - 40 lbs (13.4 - 17.9 kg)

Coat Type: This terrier has a distinctive coat, which is not shed. It needs daily grooming to prevent matting. The coat color is called "wheaten" because it should match the color of ripening wheat. Whitish or reddish tones are not acceptable. The original untrimmed version of this coat as shown in the top two photos is the way the coat is maintained in the UK and Europe. The American trimmed coat in shown the the bottom photo.

Temperament: The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is less aggressive than is encouraged in the other terrier breeds, but he will stand his ground. A lively, loyal, and energetic dog that will benefit from training.

Health Problems: The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier may be prone to allergic skin problems. It also is prone to PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), an inherited eye disease, which can lead to blindness.

Special Interest: When the pups are born, their coat is black in color and it takes most of the first year for the color to completely change to the typical wheaten color.

Classifications:
AKC: Group 4 - Terriers
CKC: Group 4 - Terriers
KC: Sporting - Terrier Group
FCI: Group 3
ANKC: Group 2 - Terriers