11 Best Dog Breeds For Farms
There are some dogs that love nothing more than to help you with daily tasks around the farm. Here are some of the best dog breeds for farms:
Read more →Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Puppies for Sale
Breed Characteristics
Average Size: Medium
Average Lifespan: 12-14 years
Kid/Pet Friendly: Sometimes
Registry: aca,akc
Activity Level: moderate
Shedding Level: low
Grooming Level: high
Trainability: moderate
Good For Novice Owners: moderate
Adaptability: moderate
Prey Drive: high
Watchdog: aware
Breed Information
Overview
Shoulder height: 17-20 inches. Weight: 30-45 pounds.
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, also called a Wheaten or Wheaten Terrier, originated in Ireland over 200 years ago. They were bred to be an all-purpose farm dog and were commonly found watching and guarding livestock, herding, and serving as vermin control.
Unlike their common ancestors, the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Irish Terrier, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier didn’t often sit at the side of the gentry or nobility. One of the facts about Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers is that these dogs, at least within Ireland, were referred to as the “Poor Man’s Wolfhound”.
Although the first Wheaten Terriers came to the United States during the 1940s, it took another decade for the breed to catch on and start being developed within the country. The American Kennel Club recognized the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier in 1973 as part of the Terrier Group.
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are right at home whether they’re out working on the farm or just hanging out with their families. Their working history serves the Wheaten well in canine sport competitions and they can also be found working as therapy dogs.
Temperament
This dog breed is lively, loyal, loving, intelligent, and energetic with a fun and playful disposition. They get along well with children and other dogs, but may need to be socialized with other smaller pets due to their strong prey drive. They make good watchdogs as they are alert, but their guard dog instincts are reserved for livestock as they tend to be extremely friendly in other capacities.
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers can be somewhat standoffish with new people as they are protective of their families, but socialization early and often, plus proper introductions, can help curb this initial wariness. Once they’re comfortable with you, they tend to be quite enthusiastic greeters and may be prone to jumping up. Training your dog not to jump up early on can help curb this behavior while still maintaining their happy enthusiasm.
Did You Know?
Although the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier has a long history in Ireland, they were not recognized by the Irish Kennel Club until 1937.
Available Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Puppies
No Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier puppies are available right now — check back soon!
Featured Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Articles
17 of the Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
Here are some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners to help get you started on finding the right puppy for you:
Read more →5 Facts About Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers
Wheaten Terriers are happy-go-lucky dogs that make great companions. Here are a few more facts about Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers:
Read more →What is a Terrier?
Terriers tend to be energetic, quick-witted dogs that are loyal and devoted. They make fantastic companions. But, what is a terrier?
Read more →
