The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Is a Non-Sheading Breed consistent
with being Hypoallergenic.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized, compact and
squarely proportioned dog. It is a strong dog that moves gracefully.
The head is shaped like a rectangle, rather long, with a short, strong
muzzle, jaws that are able to seize and grip prey well, and large teeth.
It has a defined stop. The ears are v-shaped and fold forward, level
with the skull. The teeth should form a scissors or level bite. The
almond shaped eyes are hazel or dark brown. Light or yellow eye color
can occur but is a breed fault in the written standard. The nose is large
and black. The strong back forms a level topline. The front legs are
straight, with plenty of bone. The dew claws should be removed. The
feet are round with black pads and dark nails. The tail is cocked and
carried upright. Puppies are born black, but lighten to the final adult
wheaten color by about two years of age.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an alert and happy animal - grace-
ful, strong and well-coordinated. A playful and friendly terrier. They
make great watch dogs and bark at the arrival of guests. They are
usually very loving with children and get along reasonably well with
other dogs (provided they are socialized when they are young). They
do not get along well with cats. All it takes is some fast movement on
the part of the cat, and the dog's instincts will take over and he will
attack. They have a puppy attitude that remains with it throughout its
life.
Sweet-tempered, easy-going and self-confident. This breed needs
to be taught when it's young what is and is not acceptable behavior.
It is very intelligent, so it will generally grasp quickly what is required
of them. They have a straight-forward nature and need to be handled
in a straight-forward manner. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers bond
extremely closely with their family. They seldom bark unnecessarily.
Though not as aggressive as many other terriers, males may be com-
bative with other male dogs if challenged. The Soft Coated Wheaten
should be well socialized with other dogs while they are young puppies.
This breed is increasing in popularity and is known in most areas of the
United States, but it may still require some calling around to find a
breeder. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is good for apartment life.
They are moderately active indoors and a small yard will do. This breed
does not tolerate heat very well.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was first imported to the United States
in 1946 and officially recognized by the AKC in 1973.
