Are soft coated wheaten terriers good dogs?
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, an exuberant Irish farm dog, is happy, friendly, deeply devoted, and just stubborn enough to remind you he’s a terrier. Wheaten terriers are typically smart dogs, though willful, and often have their own agenda. This can make them a challenge to train, though can also make training fun. This also makes those successes in dog sports that much more special.Most wheatens will bark (like an alarm) if they hear or sense something but generally speaking they are not big barkers or what some would call yappy dogs. Something that is very important and a requirement for wheatens, is having a fenced yard or a safe place to walk or take them for exercise.Wheaten Terriers are quite well known to be slow to train. They are very smart in resolving problems like retrieving toys that have fallen under furniture, or getting treats out of toys (such as Kong toys, 2-in-1 plush toys, or Hide-A Squirrel toys), or even more complex dog puzzle toys.This working breed enjoys playing. But Wheaten Terriers will also enjoy cuddling time on the couch as long as they get enough stimulation during playtime.
Are Wheaten terriers difficult to train?
Wheaten Terriers are intelligent dogs with a moderate level of trainability. They have a playful and curious nature, which can sometimes lead to a bit of stubbornness during training. Positive reinforcement methods that involve treats, praise, and play work best for them. Health problems. The greatest concerns in this breed are a serious digestive disease, two serious kidney diseases, and three eye diseases. Wheatens are also prone to allergic skin disorders and ear infections. Read more about Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Health.Due to their breeding history as farm dogs, soft coated wheaten terriers may bark when new people approach their home or family. Early socialization and consistent training can help correct this behavior, and they are generally quieter than other terrier breeds.They are notorious for jumping vigorously and twirling when happy or excited: the “Wheaten greeting. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are great playmates for older children and do well with other dogs.They are liable to kill such animals because of their heritage of ridding vermin on farms. Wheaten terriers make excellent watchdogs but poor guard dogs because everyone is their friend. Wheatens can bark excessively if not properly trained. They also will pull on the leash.Wheaten terriers are not a common breed; they are listed as a vulnerable breed by the Kennel Club, UK with fewer than 300 registered dogs per year; in the USA they have only come close to cracking the top 50 most popular breeds (see Figure 1).
Are Wheaten terriers high maintenance?
It’s vital prospective owners appreciate the full Terrier instinct and temperament. A daily consideration is the Grooming. As the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier does not moult, which is a modern-day appeal, but the coat is high maintenance. Like many other breeds, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers can develop separation anxiety, leading to excessive barking when left alone.Another reason Wheaten Terriers are such great family dogs is that they are very intelligent and easily trainable. The only thing it’s hard to train them to do is not jump up on people. They love people so much and it’s an instinct.Playful and Energetic Wheatens are known for their high energy levels and playful demeanor. These dogs thrive on physical activity and mental stimulation, making them ideal companions for active individuals and families.Emotional care: wheatens can tolerate being left alone for a little while, but they should never be left alone for the better part of a day or an entire day. Make sure that they are trained well and with discipline as puppies, but don’t exert any harsh punishment on them as they are quite sensitive.
Can Wheaten terriers be left alone?
They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of the family. Leaving them alone for long periods can lead to boredom, anxiety, and destructive behavior. Soft coated wheaten terriers are also intelligent and curious dogs. Regarding temperament, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is highly devoted and affectionate and loves just about everybody they meet. They’re even good for first-time pet parents and apartment dwellers. But beware: that soft, silky coat needs a lot of grooming.Health Issues Common to Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers Breed-specific health problems include protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), as well as Addison’s Disease, a disorder of the adrenal glands.Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their cuddly nature. They love to be close to their owners and will often seek out physical affection. Whether it’s snuggling up on the couch or curling up in bed with you, these dogs are happiest when they are in close proximity to their loved ones.When selecting what to feed your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish.Unfortunately, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful!