Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Breed Profile: Essential Facts
Active, playful and oh-so-adorable, the soft-coated wheaten terrier is also a courageous watchdog and a devoted member of the family.
soft coated wheaten terrier
- AKC Group: Terrier
- Weight: 30–40 lbs.
- Height: 17–19 in.
- Life Span: 12–14 years
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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Characteristics
The soft coated wheaten terrier, a member of the terrier group, is a cheerful and spirited breed originally bred in Ireland for farm work. Known for its friendly demeanor and distinctive coat, this medium-sized dog is both lively and affectionate, making it a popular companion.
- Size and Weight: Males typically stand between 18 to 20 inches tall and weigh 35 to 45 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, averaging 17 to 19 inches in height and 30 to 40 pounds in weight.
- Eyes and Coat: This breed features wide, almond-shaped eyes in shades of brown or yellow, though lighter eye colors are considered faults in conformation. Its signature wavy, single-layer coat comes in varying shades of wheat. Puppies are born with darker coats that gradually lighten as they mature.
- Life Expectancy: The average lifespan of a soft coated wheaten terrier is approximately 15 years.
With its compact build and high-set tail, the soft coated wheaten terrier combines sturdy structure with an expressive, friendly appearance suited for both work and companionship.
H2: Origin of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The soft coated wheaten terrier has roots that trace back over 200 years in Ireland, though precise documentation of its origin is limited. It is widely believed that the breed may share ancestry with the Kerry Blue Terrier, possibly introduced after a shipwreck off the Irish coast.
Originally bred for their strength, agility, and stamina, these medium-sized dogs were valued for their quick reflexes and adaptability. The soft coated wheaten terrier was officially recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1937 and by the Kennel Club of England in 1943. Exported to the United States in 1946
- Breed enthusiasts formed the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America in Brooklyn, NY in 1962
- Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1973
- Initially placed in the Miscellaneous Class, later reassigned to the Terrier Group
For more historical context, visit the AKC breed profile.
Purpose of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The soft coated wheaten terrier was originally bred as a versatile farm dog in Ireland. Known for its agility and alertness, this breed excelled in a variety of tasks crucial to rural life. Herded livestock and protected property Hunted vermin and small wild animals
- Served as a watchdog and all-around farm companion
Today, the soft coated wheaten terrier remains active and adaptable. It participates in modern dog sports and working roles such as: Conformation events Herding and ratting trials Hunting activities
For a deeper look at what conformation events entail, check out our guide on dog conformation at Petful.
Temperament of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The soft coated wheaten terrier is known for its spirited, confident, and affectionate personality. Despite being medium-sized, this breed is surprisingly strong and alert, making it an excellent watchdog. Active and playful with a lively disposition
- Intelligent and quick to learn, but benefits from consistent training
- Not typically a nuisance barker—usually vocal only when necessary
- Forms strong bonds with family members and thrives on companionship
They generally get along well with children and other dogs. However, due to their vermin-hunting background, they may instinctively chase smaller pets.
Curious how much dogs like the soft coated wheaten terrier can understand? Read our article on how many words a dog can learn.
Is the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Right for You?
If you're seeking a loyal companion that’s great with kids, adaptable to small spaces, and low-maintenance, the soft coated wheaten terrier may be a perfect fit.
This breed offers a well-rounded mix of charm, intelligence, and practicality: Friendly with children and other dogs
- Can live peacefully with cats when properly socialized
- Thrives indoors and doesn't require a large yard
- Requires daily brushing to prevent tangles, but grooming is manageable
- Generally healthy with minimal breed-specific issues
- Long life expectancy of up to 15 years
If you want a playful, affectionate dog that fits well into family life without demanding too much space or grooming, the soft coated wheaten terrier might just be your next best friend.
Exercise Needs of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
MEDIUM: The soft coated wheaten terrier is an energetic breed that stays active even indoors, making it a great match for apartment or city living. While a yard is not required, regular physical activity is still essential.
- Daily walks are a must to meet their exercise needs
- Indoor play can help burn off energy in smaller spaces
- Mental stimulation, such as training games or puzzle toys, also keeps them satisfied
Even without outdoor space, a well-exercised soft coated wheaten terrier will be a happy and well-behaved companion.
Grooming Requirements of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
HIGH: The soft coated wheaten terrier has a single, wavy coat that sheds minimally, but regular grooming is essential to keep it healthy and mat-free.
- Use a comb instead of a brush to avoid frizz and remove tangles
- Daily grooming is ideal, especially around high-friction areas like the neck and legs
- Bathe as needed based on activity and coat condition
- Many owners trim facial hair short, while others prefer a longer style resembling a schnauzer
Because of their low-shedding coat, the soft coated wheaten terrier may be a good fit for people with mild pet allergies—see our list of dog breeds for people with asthma or allergies.
If you’re maintaining your dog’s coat at home, grooming tools like PediPaws can also help with nail care. And for those seeking smaller, low-maintenance breeds, check out our list of tiny dogs that stay small.
To see different grooming cuts as well as the soft-coated wheaten terrier's major cuteness factor, check out this video of Fur-Ball as she grows from puppy to adult:
Common Health Problems
LOW: This breed is a healthy breed with minimal genetic diseases. Your dog should be examined (and screened when possible) for the following conditions: Protein wasting diseases (PLE and PLN) Flea allergies Addison's disease Renal dysplasia
Adopt, Don't Shop
You can find soft-coated wheaten terriers in shelters and rescues from time to time, so definitely start with an adoptable search first. If you decide to contact a breeder, please read our important article on puppy mill red flags. Also ask the breeder about health screening; there are tests that can be performed either on the dog or the parents to evaluate the risk of the health problems common to this breed.
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Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
A soft coated wheaten terrier typically costs between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on the breeder and location.
Adult soft coated wheaten terriers usually weigh 30 to 45 pounds and stand 17 to 20 inches tall.
The soft coated wheaten terrier is a medium-sized, low-shedding terrier breed from Ireland known for its wavy coat and friendly temperament.
Additional Resources
- American Kennel Club's Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier page
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of Great Britain
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of Canada
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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