Where is the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier from?
History. The Wheaten was bred in Ireland for over two hundred years to be an all-purpose farm dog whose duties included herding, watching and guarding livestock, and vermin hunting and killing. They share a common ancestry with the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Irish Terrier but were not owned by gentry. Wheatens love all people and are only occasionally wary of strangers. Wheaten Terriers see every person and animal as a new best friend they just haven’t met yet. Because of this, no one should fear being bitten by a Wheaten (unless it has been terribly frightened and feels panicked or cornered).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.Soft-coated wheaten terriers are highly intelligent and opinionated dogs. Early training can help assure that they become well-mannered and obedient companions. They can be independent and need a strong bond with their families. Constant positive reinforcement is often needed to overcome their strong-willed nature.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).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.
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). 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.The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a PEOPLE dog and CANNOT BE LEFT ALONE FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME. The Wheaten gets lonely and bored and will fret for your return, it is at this time that they can become destructive, just like any dog.AVERAGE LIFESPAN The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier can live up to 13 years of age.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.
How intelligent is a wheaten terrier?
Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended for all dogs to help to ensure that the they grow into well-adjusted, well-mannered companions. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is keenly smart and willful, and often has his own agenda. 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.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 Wheaten Terrier’s hair type is Curly. The only color is Wheaten. Their hair will take a lot of grooming, and you will want to see a professional to help keep it in good condition. Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers are low shedders. They should get a bath every 3-4 weeks, more often than average.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.
Can a wheaten terrier be left alone?
The Wheaten Cairn Terrier can make a delightful pet in the right home. While this pup is adaptable, they don’t tolerate being left alone well. That makes them vulnerable to separation anxiety and other behavioral issues. This pooch needs companionship and regular interaction. Wheatens can NEVER, NEVER, NEVER be trusted off leash in a unfenced area.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.Wheaten terriers thrive on human companionship and should not be left alone for extended periods.Adult Wheatens should be fed a healthy diet of high-quality dog food or food that is prepared at home under the advice of a vet. Wheaten Terriers should eat twice a day. It is important to check the weight of a Wheaten regularly to ensure that they do not become obese.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.
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. Wheaten Terriers are highly spirited and retain their puppy attitude throughout their lifetime. 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.Overall The Wheaten Terrier is a friendly, outgoing, and playful breed that makes a great addition to any family. With proper training, socialization, and care, this breed can be a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.Known for their playful and affectionate nature, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers make excellent family pets. They are friendly and outgoing, generally getting along well with children, making them a great choice for families. Additionally, their gentle demeanor also makes them suitable companions for older adults.They have a very gentle temperament and they love other dogs and children. They will play for hours as puppies and they have a lot of spunk, but they are not as aggressive as other terrier breeds when they play, which is why they are great for kids. Wheaten Terriers, in a nutshell, love everyone and anyone.
What is the attitude of a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?
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.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.None more so than the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier. To avoid heartache later, conscientious breeders will proactively insist on prospective owners making themselves fully familiar with this high maintenance, big personality breed, it’s various developmental stages and wide type diversity.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.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.