GROUP: Terrier    SIZE: Medium    ORIGIN: Ireland

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a native of Ireland and for many generations there was hardly a farm or small-holding without its Wheaten. Loved and valued for his many sterling qualities, the Wheaten was used to herd cattle, pursue and destroy vermin and enjoy a day’s shooting in the company of his master. It is recorded that the Wheaten Terrier is the oldest Irish breed of terrier.

ORIGIN
Little is known of the actual origin of the Wheaten Terrier. Like many breeds, this has become lost in the mists of time. However, the Wheaten can be traced back at least 200 years in Ireland. The breed was rescued from extinction by the late Dr G i Pierse in the early 1930s and was recognised by the Irish Kennel Club as a pure breed in 1938.

GENERAL APPEARANCE
The Wheaten Terrier’s appearance is that of an active medium-sized dog with a compact body possessing the strength of a much larger breed. His soft, silky abundant coat of a good clear wheaten colour falls naturally in loose waves or large loose curls all over the body, and is especially profuse on head and legs. The ears should be covered in coat and the tail, also well covered, should be carried gaily but not over the back.

SIZE
Dogs between 46 and 50cm at withers and weighing 16 — 20 kg, bitches slightly less.

TEMPERAMENT
A Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a lively, inquisitive and bouncy dog. He shows pleasure through jumps and kisses in greeting family and visitors. He is a house dog and his marvellous personality and temperament bloom only in a good home environment.

Above all, a Wheaten Terrier is a happy dog, taking tremendous joy in living and in the family whose life he shares. He often carries his love of games and pranks into an advanced old age.

CARE AND GROOMING
The Wheaten is unsuitable as a kennel dog, where the restraining conditions have an adverse effect on his character. He is highly intelligent and his engaging ways make him a much appreciated friend and companion. He relates well to children with his sense of fun and abundant energy. A Wheaten makes a good watchdog, barking to announce the presence of a stranger. His common sense usually prevents him from being a constant ‘yapper’.

The single coat does not moult or smell when kept bathed, brushed and combed. A regular grooming schedule is absolutely mandatory to keep the lovely coat shining, clean and in a tangle free condition. This hardy breed suffers few health problems.

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