Origin: Known in Ireland for more than two
centuries, the Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier was the poor man's
hunting dog, a slayer of vermin, a herding dog and a watchdog.
Wheaten Terriers are thought to be one of the ancestors of the
Kerry Blue Terrier. The tousled-looking farmer's dog attracted
little attention until a terrier match in 1932 when a group of
fanciers decided to form a club.
Wheaten Terriers were first called Irish Wheaten
Terriers, but that was considered too close to the Irish
Terrier, so it was changed to the present name. Soft Coated
Wheaten Terriers were first exhibited in 1937 and placed on the
list of native Irish breeds. In the beginning, the breed was
shown in its natural shaggy state but when other terrier
fanciers derided them as looking like so many haystacks, the
owners began to 'top and tidy' them, eventually resulting in the
familiar scissored trim now seen in the North American show
ring.
Temperament: This is indeed a dog that licked the
Blarney Stone. The Wheaten Terrier is a happy, steady dog with
an aura of self-confidence, inquisitive and alert.
Activity level: A bit more laid-back than many
other terriers, the Wheaten Terrier is still spirited, enjoys
activity and is ready and willing to learn. He requires no less
than a daily brisk walk to satisfy his exercise needs and more
will be appreciated.
Height/Weight: The ideal height for a male Wheaten
Terrier is 18.5 in (47 cm) and weight should fall in the range
of 35-45 lb (16-20.5 kg). Female Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers
will stand 17.5 in (44 cm) and register 30-35 lb (13.5-16 kg).
Coat: The non-shedding, hypoallergenic coat is
abundant, soft-textured and wavy.
Color: Pale gold to warm honey is the color of the
Wheaten Terrier. Darker shading may be found on the ears and
muzzle. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier puppies are born dark in
color and lighten to wheaten as they mature.
Grooming: Thorough
brushing is needed on a regular basis to prevent mats. It takes
considerable scissoring skills to trim the coat in the accepted
show style.
