Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Description
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, or Wheaten for short, hails from Ireland and has been around for over 200 years. Originally, these dogs worked hard on farms, herding livestock, guarding the homestead, and chasing pests. They’re medium-sized, weighing between 30 and 40 pounds, with a soft, wavy coat that’s wheaten-colored—no patterns here. Wheatens are friendly and playful, always ready to join family activities. They tend to bark a lot, so they’re good watchdogs but need training to keep the noise in check. These dogs thrive on attention and do best with early socialization. They can be a bit stubborn, but their smarts make them quick learners when you’re consistent.
Grooming
The Wheaten’s silky, wavy coat needs regular care to stay tangle-free. Brush or comb your dog 3 to 5 times a week, paying special attention behind the ears and under the armpits where mats form easily. A light trim around the feet and sanitary areas between full grooms keeps them neat. Bathe every 3 to 6 weeks, and dry the coat straight to avoid tangles. Full grooming sessions should happen every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the coat healthy and manageable. Moisture can cause mats, so dry your dog thoroughly after outdoor time in wet weather. - Brush 3–5 times weekly - Detangle ears and armpits - Light trims between grooms - Bathe every 3–6 weeks - Full groom every 4–6 weeks Pro tip: Use a slicker brush combined with a metal comb to reach through the dense coat without pulling.
Learn the Sliky routine:
→ Complete Sliky Grooming Guide
Walking
Wheatens need about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This breed loves to explore and sniff, so keep walks interesting by changing routes or adding short play breaks. Their high barking tendency means leash training helps keep them calm outside. Try a morning 40-minute walk to burn off energy before the day starts. Then, take a 45-minute evening stroll that includes some off-leash time in a secure area for running and playing. Example routine: - Morning: 40-minute brisk walk around the neighborhood - Evening: 45-minute walk with fetch and scent games at the park
Boarding
When boarding a Wheaten, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to give them enough room to stretch and turn comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily. Include scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp and engaged. Staff should note the Wheaten’s tendency to bark and be ready to offer consistent, calm attention. Socialization with other dogs is usually positive, but introductions should be supervised. Regular grooming during their stay helps prevent mats and keeps them comfortable. Enrichment ideas: - Two active play sessions daily - Scent tracking or puzzle toys - Calm, consistent handling to ease barking This breed thrives with routine and plenty of interaction while boarding.