Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier adult black and white

Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Wheaten Terriers are powerful dogs of respectable size that were used on small farms to kill vermin and other jobs. They were long used for hunting badgers and otters – a tough job.

About the Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Spirited and game, good tempered, very affectionate and loyal, very intelligent, Wheatens are great friends and wonderful defenders, without a drop of aggression. Wheatens most likely belong to the oldest of the four Irish terrier breeds. They can be traced back at least two centuries, based on texts that mention “soft-haired” dogs.

The breed has gradually gained in popularity since then and is now spread throughout the world, although the overall population is fairly low. These hardy, active, short-coupled dogs are well built to the extent that they give the impression of possessing strength.

Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Breed specifics

Country
Ireland
Group
FCI Group 3, AKC Terrier Group
Size category
Medium
Avg life expectancy
12–14 years

Even-tempered / Loving / Loyal / Intelligent / Protective

Key facts

  • Makes a great guard dog
  • Requires moderate grooming
  • Patient with children and other animals

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