Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Breed Guide
Also known as: SCWT, Wheaten Terrier
Ireland's bouncing terriers, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are friendly, energetic dogs whose silky coats and exuberant nature bring joy to households.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
14-20 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
14-20 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originated in Ireland over 200 years ago, where they were bred as versatile farm dogs capable of herding, hunting, and guarding. These dogs were the poor man's wolfhound, bred by farmers who couldn't afford the more expensive Irish Wolfhound.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized dogs with soft, silky coats in various shades of wheaten, from pale beige to golden. They're known for their gentle expressions, wavy coats, and friendly, exuberant personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, friendly, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and are known for their steady, reliable temperament. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation but are adaptable to various living situations. Their coats need regular grooming to prevent matting. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, certain eye conditions, and kidney problems. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
Expert advice on keeping your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier requires careful attention to both quality and quantity. These energetic dogs thrive on a well-balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, essential fats, and complex carbohydrates. Their active lifestyle demands proper nutritional support, making portion control particularly important to maintain a healthy weight.
Establishing consistent feeding schedules helps regulate your dog's metabolism and prevents overfeeding. While treats play a valuable role in training, they should constitute no more than 10% of daily caloric intake. Regular monitoring of your Wheaten's weight and adjusting portions accordingly ensures they maintain optimal body condition.
Fresh, clean water should always be available, particularly given their dense coat and energetic nature. Consider placing multiple water bowls throughout your home to encourage proper hydration. During warmer months or periods of increased activity, monitor water consumption more closely.
Special attention should be paid to ingredients that support coat health, as the Wheaten's distinctive silky fur requires specific nutritional support. Avoiding foods with unnecessary fillers and artificial additives helps prevent potential sensitivities and promotes overall wellbeing. Working with your veterinarian to establish appropriate portion sizes and dietary guidelines ensures your Wheaten receives the nutrition needed for a healthy, active life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers from our community of pet parents
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their friendly, affectionate, and lively personality. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. They are good with children and can get along well with other dogs, given proper socialisation. Their playful and energetic nature means they are always ready for an adventure.
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