Is a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier a good first dog?

Is a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier a good first dog?

Rounding out the best six breeds for first-timers are Golden Retrievers, Redbone Coonhounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Collies, and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers.

How rare is a wheaten terrier?

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).

Do soft coated wheaten Terriers like to cuddle?

Wheaten Terriers have a lot of energy. Like other working breeds, they need a job to direct their energy. 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.

Do wheaten Terriers bark a lot?

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. These dogs are not one-person dogs and will go with anyone.

Can a wheaten terrier be left alone?

Alone Time. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier becomes attached to her family, and prefers to spend time with them. While you can leave her alone from four to eight hours per day, she needs plenty of exercise due to her high energy level. Expect exuberant barking, jumping, and face licks upon your return home.

Are wheaten terriers difficult to train?

The Wheaten temperament can make them a challenge to train. They’re typically smart dogs with their own agendas in life, which seldom includes what you want them to do. If they get away with too much for too long, you’ll find yourself with an unruly and difficult adult Wheaten –not a good companion for any family.

Are wheaten terriers high maintenance?

They are low-shedding but do require extensive coat care to avoid matting. Before bringing home a Wheaten Terrier puppy, make sure you have the time to keep up with at-home grooming and the budget for regular trips to a professional groomer. The Wheaten is an intelligent breed and often has a mind of their own.

Are wheaten terriers smart?

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is keenly smart and willful, and often has his own agenda. This makes them challenging to train. It also provides another reason why obedience training should start early, before bad habits become ingrained. A Wheaten needs consistent, firm discipline but is sensitive to harsh treatment.

What are the health risks of a Wheaten terrier?

However, it is important to know that all dog breeds are susceptible to certain diseases and the Wheaten is no exception. Veterinary research has identified two conditions that seem to have a higher than normal incidence in Wheatens: protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE).

Do Wheaten terriers smell?

Shampooing and bathing becomes a frequent event. Approximately every 6 weeks is recommended however the Wheaten Terrier is not a smelly dog. The dirt drops out as the muddy coat dries usually into its bed.

Are wheatens aggressive?

There is some aggression with other dogs of the same sex; otherwise the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is usually gregarious with other family pets. Bright and sensitive, yet spunky and headstrong, the Soft Coated Wheaten, like most terriers, is not particularly easy to train.

What is the life expectancy of a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?

Coat: Soft and silky. Color: Wheaten. Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years.

How often should I bathe a Wheaten terrier?

Whether you have a show Wheaten or a trimmed Wheaten they should be bathed and conditioned at least monthly to keep the coat in great shape. First bathe with Hypo- Allergenic Shampoo for a general dirt removal then target the specific need of the dog.

Can Wheaten terriers eat chicken?

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.

Do Wheaten terriers like to swim?

In terms of temperament, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are generally playful and adventurous. They love to engage in activities that challenge their minds and bodies, and swimming can provide the perfect outlet for their energy.

What are the cons of the Wheaten terrier?

• Addison’s Disease. Addison’s disease, otherwise known as hypoadrenocorticism, is a condition defined by underproductive adrenal glands. …
• Renal Dysplasia. …
• Protein-Losing Nephropathy. …
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease. …
• Cataracts.

Are Wheaten terriers kid friendly?

Wheatens do well with considerate, well-behaved children. Because Wheaten exuberance and activity may overwhelm small children and since Wheatens require a great deal of time and attention, many breeders urge parents of infants and pre-schoolers to wait until children are older to get a Wheaten.

What is the attitude of a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?

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. The unique wheaten coat is low-shedding but needs diligent care to avoid matting.

Are Wheaten terriers well-behaved?

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an intelligent, playful, and affectionate furry family member. They are exceptionally affectionate and usually well-behaved with children and other dogs when supervised, trained, and socialized from puppyhood.