Are soft coated wheaten terriers rare?
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). 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.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.Wheatens can bark excessively if not properly trained. They also will pull on the leash. These dogs are not one-person dogs and will go with anyone. Wheaten terriers are not outside dogs.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.
Are wheaten terriers intelligent?
They are intelligent, yet headstrong. The Wheaten Terrier is in perpetual play mode and has plenty of energy to burn, and often makes a great match for a family. 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.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.The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, also known as simply the Wheaten or the Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, is a dog breed that originated in Ireland.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.
What are the two types of Wheaten terriers?
Wheatens typically have one of two coat types: Irish or Heavy (American). The Irish coat is generally silkier and wavier than the Heavy, or American coat, which is thicker and fuller. 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.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.Wheaten Terriers have a spirited and affectionate nature. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them excellent family companions. They love to be part of the family’s activities and enjoy the company of children.Other Names The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is also known as the Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, the Wheaten Terrier, the Wheaten, and the Wheatie. They are known as An Brocaire Buí in Ireland.
Are wheaten terriers high maintenance?
Introduction to Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers These dogs have an easygoing nature and only need a moderate amount of exercise. They are intelligent and ideal dogs for indoor living, but they are also fairly high maintenance when it comes to grooming their luscious coat. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally a healthy breed with a typical lifespan of 12–14 years—about average for a medium breed. But as with all dogs, Wheatens have a predisposition for developing a handful of health conditions pet parents should be aware of.The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a medium to high energy level that does not diminish, even in old age. They need plenty of exercise every day.Another reason Wheaten Terriers are such great family dogs is that they are very intelligent and easily trainable.Soft-coated wheaten terriers tend to have an upbeat, extroverted temperament. They are typically loving with and devoted to their owners, and they are moderately wary when it comes to strangers. A bubbly, high energy level also shapes the wheaten’s personality.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.
What are the cons of the Wheaten terrier?
Wheatens are prone to renal dysplasia, a genetic form of kidney disease affecting your dog as early as puppyhood. Signs include excessive drinking of water and urine production; poor appetite or weight loss; and eventually vomiting and diarrhea. They are friendly and playful, as well as loving and loyal to their owners. However, they have high exercise and grooming requirements, which means they certainly aren’t a low-maintenance choice. After they’re thoroughly trained, the Wheaten is considered one of the easier Terriers to keep as a family pet.The major diseases owners of Soft Wheaten Terriers must be aware of are: Protein-losing nephropathy and Protein-losing enteropathy. Less commonly they may have Renal dysplasia, Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s), Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Canine Hip Dysplasia.Wheatens are prone to renal dysplasia, a genetic form of kidney disease affecting your dog as early as puppyhood. Signs include excessive drinking of water and urine production; poor appetite or weight loss; and eventually vomiting and diarrhea.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.