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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier are mostly known as “Wheatens”. They are a mesmerizing, charming, and unique breed of dog. Breeds wheaten terriers have soft, silky coats and friendly and loving personalities.
They are sociable and easily make adjustments with new families and other pets. Due to their fabulous appearance and unique attributes, wheaten terriers are loved by dog enthusiasts all around the world.
Let’s discuss their history, temperament, and health.
What Is The History And Origin Of Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
The history of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can be traced back several centuries. This breed hails from Ireland, where they were originally known as the “Poor Man’s Wolfhound.” Wheaten Terriers were primarily working dogs, tasked with hunting and herding livestock. Their hardworking background has given them steadiness, intelligence, and a strong work ethic.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are produced by breeding different other terrier dogs such as Kerry Blue Terrier, the Irish Terrier, and the Bedlington Terrier. This blending of diverse terrier bloodlines contributed to the Wheatens’ distinctive characteristics.
In 1937, the Irish Kennel Club officially recognized the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier as a distinct breed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted them full recognition in 1973. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have slowly become beloved companions for many dog lovers.
A Unique Appearance
One of the most remarkable and impressive features of a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is its soft, silky coat, which is the source of its name.
Their coats are typically a warm shade of wheat, ranging from pale beige to a deep honey color. This luxurious coat is non-shedding, making Wheatens a popular choice for people with allergies.
This breed’s distinctive appearance is completed by their almond-shaped eyes, black noses, and expressive faces that reflect their vibrant personalities.
Pictures Of Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
What Is The Temperament And Personality of Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers?
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are very well known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They are social animals. These dogs easily bond with people and other pets. They are energetic and kind-hearted. Here are some unique characteristics of soft-coated Wheaten
Playful:
Wheaten terriers have an almost boundless amount of energy. They enjoy playtime. They often retain their puppy-like energy and liveliness into adulthood. That is why they are excellent companions for active families.
Tolerance:
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are generally good with other pets, so if you have other animals in the house, they are likely to get along well.
Loyal:
These dogs are deeply devoted to their families. They form strong bonds with their owners. They demand a lot of love and attention from them.
Adaptability:
These dogs are highly adaptable. They can form strong bonds with families who have very active lifestyles but they can also easily adjust to lazy families.
Alertness:
Wheatens are quite alert and are excellent watchdogs. They are not overly aggressive, but their alertness ensures they’ll let you know if something is wrong.
Intelligence:
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are highly intelligent dogs. This intelligence makes them capable of learning commands quickly. That’s why they are very easy to train.
Friendly:
Soft coated wheaten terriers are very friendly dogs. They are always ready to meet new people and make new friends. Their warm and sympathetic nature makes them great for families with children.
Adventurous:
Wheaten dogs are well known all around the world for their love of adventure and exploring their surroundings. They enjoy outdoor activities and hikes They make perfect strong bonds with families who travel a lot.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier As A Family Pet
If you’re considering a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier as a family pet, you’re making a great choice. As we have discussed above they have all the qualities that a pet should have. Their friendly and affectionate nature makes them excellent companions for households of all sizes. They are ideal pets for families with kids because of their kindness and patience. They are also excellent companions for families who are active or travel a lot because of their curiosity and exploring nature. As they are adaptable, they can easily adjust to one who is a lazy introvert.
How To Train Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Puppy?
The intelligence and cooperative nature of Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers make them relatively easy to train. However, like many terrier breeds, soft-coated wheaten terrier dog breed can be a bit stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are essential when training your Wheaten.
Basic Commands:
Always start by teaching them basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leave, etc. As your wheaten learns basic commands, Gradually progress to more advanced commands.
Housebreaking:
Wheatens are very alert dogs. Consistent housebreaking is essential, and crate training can be particularly useful. Wheatens are intelligent and they learn things very quickly.
Positive Reinforcement:
Reward your Wheaten with treats and affection when they behave well, and avoid harsh methods or punishments when they misbehave because they can be counterproductive.
Socialization:
Expose your Wheaten to a variety of people, animals, and environments. They have a friendly nature and early socialization will ensure that they grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly adults.
Exercise:
Exercise is essential for keeping a Wheaten happy and well-behaved. They are extremely energetic dogs. They require both physical and mental stimulation to avoid rude and destructive behavior. All of the activities, such as going for a stroll or playing with balls, keep them occupied and keep them stress-free and vibrant.
Health Issues Of Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Soft Coated Terrier Wheaten are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues such as
Protein-Losing Nephropathy (PLN):
PLN is a kidney disease that affects Wheaten Terriers. This disease causes protein loss in the urine. When it becomes severe it causes kidney failure.
Addison’s Disease:
This is a hormonal disorder that affects the adrenal glands in wheaten. It causes insufficient production of certain hormones.
Hip Dysplasia:
Wheaten Terriers can be prone to hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, potentially causing lameness and arthritis.
Renal Dysplasia:
This is a kidney disorder that can lead to kidney failure.
Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE):
PLE is a condition where the gastrointestinal tract loses proteins, leading to weight loss and other symptoms in terrier wheaten.
Allergies:
Wheaten Terrier soft coated can easily develop skin or food allergies. The allergies cause itching, irritation, discomfort, and other skin problems.
If your dog is suffering from any disease, take them to the veterinarian immediately.
To ensure your Wheaten lives a long, happy life, it’s important to be aware of potential health concerns and provide proper care. Regular vet visits are crucial to monitor your Wheaten’s overall health. These visits can help catch any potential health issues early.
Grooming And Care
If you want your wheaten terrier soft coated to live a healthy and happy life, Then always make sure to take care of their diet and health.
Nutrition:
Provide your dog with a well-balanced diet that contains all the essential elements that are important for their health. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your dog’s age and activity level.
Exercise:
Wheatens are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their love for play and adventure makes them great companions for outdoor activities. These dogs need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities to explore the outdoors are essential to keep them happy and active.
Mental stimulations are also essential to keep them stress-free and happy.
Grooming:
Regular grooming is extremely important to maintain a beautiful coat of wheaten terriers. Make sure to brush their coat several times a week.
Give them a bath once after two weeks.
Brush their teeth and trim their nails to maintain their overall health.
Take them for professional grooming every few months.
FAQs about Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers do not shed at all. Because of this, they are a popular choice for people with allergies.
Their soft coat requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty and health. Regular brushing, professional grooming every few months, and occasional bathing are essential to prevent matting and maintain the silky texture
Yes, soft-coated wheaten terriers are hypoallergenic dogs.
Soft coated wheaten terriers are not aggressive dogs. They are very kind and patient. But if they are not treated well they can be stubborn and counterproductive.
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