If you want to know more about the Irish Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, you have come to the right page. This DogAppy article will provide you with some important information about this exotic dog breed.
The Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, also known as the Wheaten Terrier, is a type of terrier originating from Ireland. These are mainly farm dogs who watch over flock of sheep, and also protect livestock by hunting and killing vermin. These dogs are sometimes also referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Wolfhound’, and have been bred in Ireland for over 200 years.
The Wheaten Terrier were first brought to the United States back in the 1940s. However, it was 20 years later that these dogs became very famous, and remain so till date. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.
Given below is information about the physical description, temperament, structure, etc., of these dogs. If you are planning to adopt one as a house pet, this information should prove useful, so that you can better adjust with the pet, and vice versa.
Description
People sometimes confuse the Wheaten Terrier with some Terrier mix dogs such as the Old English Sheepdog and sometimes the Lhasas. However there are certain unique characteristics of this breed that can help you in clearly and correctly identifying it.
The Wheaten Terrier are compact and squarely proportioned dogs, who have a long head and a rectangular body. The black noses of these dogs are bigger compared to the rest of their bodies. Their lips are black in color, and they have teeth that meet in a scissor bite. The ‘V’ shaped ears of these dogs droop down, and their eyes are brown in color. Their front paws are straight, compact, and round.
The color of the fur of the Wheaten Terrier, changes during the first few years of the dog’s life. The puppies are born with either dark brown or red colored fur, and black mouths and ears. Once they are at least two years old, their coat gradually lightens to the proper shades of the Wheaten color of the adult dogs.
Size and Weight
The weight of an adult Wheaten Terrier varies from 30 – 40 lb. The female weighs less than the male dogs. Their length varies between 18 to 20 inches, with the female dogs being a few inches shorter than the males.
Temperament
The Wheaten Terrier is an extremely friendly and playful dog breed. They are extremely alert and making them very good watch-dogs. One particular appreciable behavior-trait that you will notice in them, is that they get along very well with children.
It is important to teach them how to behave properly when they are young so that they can grow up into well-mannered and obedient dogs. However, owing to their high intelligence level, and quick learning capacity, it’s never too late to train them. While teaching them good behavior, do keep in mind, not to be harsh with them as these dogs need patience and care.
Wheaten Terriers make great family dogs. They adjust to their environment and to people very quickly. Nothing makes them happier than playing games with their masters and learning new tricks. They do not need a big space to play around. However, they do need daily exercises, so you must take them out, at least for a walk every day.
Health Problems
These dogs are more prone to dog fleas because of the thick fur that covers their body. They might also suffer from various allergies, and are prone to some of the protein wasting diseases.
To keep them safe and protected from these problems, good care needs to be taken. Their fur should be cleaned and trimmed regularly, and they should be given a proper and healthy diet. If sufficient care is provided, these dogs can live up to 12 and even 15 years.
If you adopt a Wheaten Terrier, do take good care of it. These dogs need love, patience, and care to thrive, and in return, they’ll be you truest and most loyal companion and friend as long as they are around.
