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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Height: 17 - 19 inches
Weight: 30 - 40 pounds
Life span: 12 - 14 years
AKC group: Terrier
AKC rank: 58

  • Jogging Partner
  • Lap Dog
  • Children's Dog
  • Outdoor Dog
  • Warm Weather
  • Cold Weather
  • Grooming Requirements
  • Shedding
  • Barking
  • Ease of Training
Breed History | Background:

  • The soft coated wheaten terrier originated in Ireland as an all-around farm dog. It exterminated vermin, guarded the homestead and rounded up stock. Its date of origin is unknown, but it was established by the 1700s.
  • Like many farm breeds, it early history is largely undocumented. It is likely to have been crossed with other dogs as various needs and circumstances arose.
  • In 1937 the SCWT was granted breed status in Ireland. This allowed it to compete in dog shows. An Irish Championship of the time required a SCWT to win not only in the show ring, but to prove itself as a hunter of badgers, rabbits and rats.
  • The first SCWT came to America in 1946.
  • The AKC recognized the SCWT in 1973. It is most popular today as a companion and show dog.

Behavioral concerns:

  • Makes a fun-loving and affectionate companion.
  • Its gentle and playful nature makes it a good match for children.
  • Friendly toward strangers.
  • Usually good with other dogs and pets.
  • Makes an attentive watchdog, and adequate protection dog.
  • It is eager to please but can be headstrong.
  • Does best with reward-based training involving food and games.  

Suggested exercise needs:

  • Makes a well-behaved housedog as long as its exercise needs are met.
  • Requires a moderate walk or short jog, or a run in an enclosed area, every day.
  • Because it loves to run and hunt, it should only be let loose in a safely enclosed.
  • Games and tricks provide needed mental exercise.
  • Its thick soft coat provides some protection against cold and wet weather.

Grooming:

  • Coat is abundant and soft; it has no noticeable undercoat.
  • The coat needs brushing or combing every other day.
  • Bathing and trimming every other month is needed to maintain the correct look.
  • The coat is easier to maintain if it is clipped to about 3".
  • The coat does not tend to shed.

Suggested Nutritional Needs:

  • SCWT conformation is for a moderate build.
  • You should be able to feel the ribs under the coat, but they should not be too noticeable.
  • Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.

Medical conditions seen:





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