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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier - Information and NZ Breed Standards

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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier


General Information - Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier


Group:
Terrier

Size:
medium

Lifespan:
12-14 years

Exercise:
moderate

Grooming:
High

Trainability:
Moderate

Watchdog ability:
High

Protection ability:
Low

Area of Origin:
Ireland

Date of Origin:
1500’s

Other Names:
None

Original Function:
Vermin hunting, herding, guardian



History

One of only three large terriers of Ireland, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier originated as an all-around farm dog, perhaps serving in this function for hundreds of years. Besides the ever-essential terrier function of extinguishing vermin, it also helped round up stock and guards the homestead. It was later even known to be trained as a gundog. Its early history is largely undocumented; however, it is mentioned as a progenitor of the Kerry Blue Terrier.

Temperament

Intelligent and loving breed, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers do well with children and are very devoted to their families, but they will not get along with cats. They are playful, friendly and sweet-tempered.

Upkeep

This is an athletic dog that needs a good daily workout, either in the form of a moderate to long walk or an invigorating game in the yard. It should be allowed loose only in a safe area because it still loves to hunt and chase. The Wheaten can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it is far better suited as an indoor dog. Its long coat needs brushing or combing every two days. As a no-shedding dog, loose hair becomes entangled in the coat and will mat if not combed out. Bathing and trimming every other month is necessary to maintain the desirable coat and silhouette; pets can be better managed if their coats are clipped to about 3 inches, but then they lose the breed's typical outline.

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