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. 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. The soft coated wheaten terrier is named for its silky, wheat-colored coat.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.Praised by farmers as a general-purpose dog—and a gentle, loving companion—the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of the top working terriers in Ireland. Smart and alert, Wheatens are also excellent watchdogs and make ideal pets for families with kids.
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. 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.While every individual dog has its own preferences, it is generally believed that Wheaten Terriers have a natural affinity for water. Their dense, water-resistant coat and strong, muscular build make them well-suited for swimming.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.Wheatens are rarely aggressive, and never aggressive with their family. They are a bit stubborn, so training is a bit difficult, but once trained they’re pretty good (although mine still can’t drop toys, and only comes when called about half the time).
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. Soft coated wheaten terriers need a great deal of companionship and do not like being left alone for more than a few hours. They tend to express their unhappiness through destructive chewing and barking. If you’re gone much during the day, this is not the breed for you.Breed-related health problems: The potential health problems that Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are prone to include: Hip dysplasia – hip joint laxity as a result of poor development, which will eventually lead to arthritis. Progressive retinal atrophy – gradual deterioration of the retina of the eye.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.
What is the average life expectancy of a Wheaten terrier?
You can expect a Wheaten Terrier to live around 12 to 14 years. The average Wheaten Terrier lifespan is 12 to 15 years and some live up to 17 years old. However, it is important to know that all dog breeds are susceptible to certain diseases and the Wheaten is no exception.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.Wheatens typically live from 10 to 15 years. Most wheatens do not slow down until they are well past seven years old.The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a healthy, sturdy and well-muscled dog that, given proper care and nourishment, will live a long, healthy life. The average Wheaten Terrier lifespan is 12 to 15 years with some living up to 17 years.
Are Wheaten terriers intelligent?
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. Wheaten Terriers love to play, cuddle, and sleep, but running is also fun.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.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.Wheatens are friendly, affectionate, loving dogs who are thrilled to spend time with anyone willing to pet them. 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.The potential health problems that Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are prone to include: Hip dysplasia – hip joint laxity as a result of poor development, which will eventually lead to arthritis. Progressive retinal atrophy – gradual deterioration of the retina of the eye.
Can soft coated wheaten terriers be left alone?
As an intelligent and very sensitive Terrier, this breed is not suited as a kennel dog, or to live in isolation whatsoever. 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.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.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. Wheaten Terriers are typically sociable with other dogs and can get along well with other pets if properly introduced.Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, but when it comes to barking, they do have a tendency to be vocal.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.