If a teddy bear were crossed with a spring-loaded jack-in-the-box, you’d get the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
This charismatic Irish breed is famous for the "Wheaten Greetin’" which is an exuberant, bouncy welcome that can knock a guest off their feet. There’s much more to this dog than just fluff and energy though. While they are exceptionally affectionate and arguably the most social of all the terriers, they bring a unique set of challenges, from a coat that demands daily maintenance to a stubborn streak that tests even the most patient owners.
The Wheaten Terrier may look like a teddy bear, but this breed is most definitely not a toy! These dogs can reach nearly 50 pounds and are not always gentle enough for young children. They’re also susceptible to certain health conditions which owners must be prepared for.
Understanding the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier
The first thing you might notice about this breed is its unusual name. Officially dubbed the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, the word "Wheaten" describes the signature color of these dogs: a warm shade of pale yellow or cream that resembles a field of ripening wheat. Because the name is based on the grain, it is very frequently misspelled as the "Wheaton terrier. The breed is also sometimes referred to as the “Soft-haired wheaten terrier” or the “Soft-wheaten Terrier.”
The Wheaten Terrier was originally used to help round up livestock. Their coats come in two variations, including:
Irish coat – This type of coat is wavy and silky. Rather than being prone to matting, it flows and is fairly easy to care for.
North American coat – The North American coat is thicker and fluffier. Regular grooming is needed to keep the fur from matting.
Regardless of coat type, the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is typically considered hypoallergenic since it doesn’t shed. Keep in mind, however, no dog is truly free from producing allergens since a pet’s dander is what typically triggers reactions.
The Wheaten Terrier’s size is consistent. Fully grown, they reach between 30 and 45 pounds and stand 17.5 to 18.5 inches tall, making them a medium-sized breed.
Wheaten Terrier Puppy: What to Expect
A Wheaten Terrier puppy can look quite different from the adult version. That’s because the breed tends to have a darker fur in the early years. This coat can appear brown or even red, but it eventually lightens into the characteristic wheaten shade when the dog reaches adulthood. Some Wheaten Terriers retain those darker colors just around their ears and/or muzzle, but this isn’t always the case.
If you plan to bring home a Wheaten Terrier puppy, you can check local shelters and rescues. You may need to visit a breeder to find one, just remember to Always research a breeder before purchasing a dog from them. Puppy mills run rampant across the globe, and the last thing you want to do is support a business owner that abuses or neglects their dogs. Reputable breeders will always be happy to give you a tour of their facility and will house dogs that appear healthy and happy. The dogs should have plenty of room throughout the day and access to fresh water and food.
While not the most expensive breed, Wheaten Terriers can still cost several thousand dollars, depending on which breeder you visit. Further costs include puppy essentials such as:
Dog bed
Leash
Food/water bowls
Toys
Puppy food
Grooming supplies
You’ll also want to begin training a puppy as soon as possible. This is important for any type of dog, but it is especially true for Wheaten Terriers. These pups are highly intelligent, which can make them incredibly stubborn, as well! They know how to manipulate their owners with those puppy dog eyes and antics. If you find that you’re not making progress training your dog yourself, you may need to pay for professional services.
Wheaten Terrier Temperament
Because Wheaten Terriers have a reputation for being stubborn, they aren’t always an appropriate choice for first-time dog owners. However, once you’ve set expectations for their behavior, they make fantastic pets. They love humans and are fairly active, which makes them a good fit for people who enjoy being outside and taking regular walks.
At Embrace, we’ve found that Wheaten Terriers often do better in households with older children, since their high energy levels can be a little too much for little ones. Wheaten Terriers can make good companions for other dogs in the household, but some individuals may take time to warm up to other canines. Socializing your Wheaten Terrier from a young age can help them feel more comfortable around others. Additionally, because this breed is a Terrier, many dogs have a tendency to go after smaller animals, including cats. This instinct can’t always be trained out of a Terrier, so keep that in mind if your home includes felines, hamsters, birds, etc.
Daily Life with a Wheaten Terrier: Care, Training & Management
By far, the most time-intensive factor in caring for a Wheaten Terrier is grooming, especially if your pup has a North American coat. All that charming fluff comes at a cost! Be ready to brush your dog daily. Because their fur (more accurately, hair) doesn’t shed, matting can happen quickly. If you’re tempted to skip the brushing routine, don’t. Grooming your dog isn’t just about maintaining his or her looks. It’s also a health consideration. Mats can be uncomfortable, and all that trapped dirt and debris can lead to painful infections.
Health Issues in Wheaten Terriers
No one wants to think of their sweet dog having health issues, but preparing for medical problems is a fact of life. No breed, including the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, is completely immune from health issues. The team at Embrace has found Wheaten Terriers are prone to developing problems such as:
Addison’s disease: This serious condition affects the adrenal glands. Addison’s disease features symptoms including unusual hunger and thirst, shaking, shivering, and vomiting. Blood tests are needed for a positive diagnosis, and daily medication is often used to treat it.
Hip dysplasia: Another condition Wheaten Terriers are at risk for is hip dysplasia. This painful issue occurs when the hip socket doesn’t align properly and eventually wears down the joint. Treatment often includes surgery and medication.
Renal dysplasia: Renal dysplasia, or malformation of the kidneys, is typically an inherited condition. It can lead to kidney failure, which sometimes takes a while to produce symptoms like increased thirst and urination. While kidney failure has no cure, vets often recommend a special renal diet, intravenous fluids, and medication to treat the symptoms.
These health conditions can quickly rack up hefty medical bills in a short amount of time. Stabilizing a dog with Addison’s Disease can cost between $1,000 and $2,500 initially, while surgical intervention for hip dysplasia often ranges from $3,500 to $7,000 per hip.
If you own a Wheaten Terrier, you definitely want to invest in dog insurance as soon as possible. At Embrace, our mission is to provide a safety net that lets you focus on your pet’s recovery, not the cost of their care. Our personalized plans offer:
Financial Security: Swift reimbursements for emergency treatments and unexpected illnesses.
Real Support: Coverage that adapts to the unique needs of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
Preventative Care: By pairing your policy with a dog wellness plan, you can also manage the predictable costs of routine exams, vaccinations, and grooming, which helps you stay ahead of health issues before they become emergencies.
Investing in your dog's health today means more years of "Wheaten Greetin’s" and peace of mind for your family.