Characteristics of a Wheaten Terrier

The wheaten terrier is a breed of dog characterized as an athletic, medium-size dog. The wheaten terrier was labeled for its wheaten color in hues of golden beige and cream and given originally to differentiate the specific breed from the red-coated Irish terrier and the Kerry blue terrier. Although considered a generally healthy, people-oriented dog the wheaten terrier is not a for every family and there certain things they need to make good pets.

  1. Temperament

    • Wheaten terriers are energetic and loyal dogs who are usually good with children. With its sturdy frame, the dog is seldom injured by child falls or play and is tolerant of ear and tail pulling. The Your Purebred Puppy website claims the wheaten terrier acts as if it were a puppy for its entire life and may get overexcited and greet people at the door by barking, jumping and running through the house.

    Wheaten Coat

    • The wheaten terrier has a very soft, cream to brown-colored coat that is wavy in design. Because wheatens do not have an undercoat, shedding is limited and is nonexistent in some cases when combed daily; brushing makes the coat too fluffy and uncharacteristic of the breed. Those with allergies often seek wheaten terriers as loyal companions because of this trait. The coat keeps growing and must be clipped by an experienced dog owner or a professional groomer.

    Activity

    • Wheaten terriers require regular exercise. It is a very active breed and can thrive in any living environment if the dog is active which may require many walks per day, play time in the yard or time at the dog park. A wheaten terriers must be leashed on walks or it may run from its owner. The breed requires early and consistent training.

    Physical Characteristics

    • The wheaten terrier is a medium sized dog with V shaped ears that lay down on its rectangular-shaped skull. The breed has a strong athletic build with a straight back line. The face of the wheaten contains a black nose, a scissor bite, black lips and almond-shaped brown or auburn-colored eyes that are wide-set on its face. Wheaten puppies are born a darker color and may take up to two years to finally reach the wheaten color.