What Are the Differences Between a Tibetan Terrier & a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?

At first glance, the Tibetan terrier and soft-coated wheaten terrier often look alike. Both are medium-size dogs with shaggy coats and merry dispositions. They both sport black noses and V-shaped ears, and are intelligent dogs that make good family pets. However, for all their similarities, Tibetan Terriers and soft-coated wheaten terriers have some significant differences.

  1. Origins

    • Tibetan Terriers are smaller than soft-coated wheaten terriers.

      Tibetan terriers were originally kept by Tibetan monks, who considered them good luck and refused to sell them, only giving them as gifts. They actually are not related to other terriers, but were given the terrier label because of their size when they were brought to England in the 1920s. Soft-coated wheaten terriers originated in Ireland, and are related to Kerry Blue and Irish terriers.

    Appearance and Size

    • Tibetan terriers come in white, black and gold or a mix of all three colors, while soft-coated wheaten terriers come only in shades of pale beige to gold. While the Tibetan always has dark brown eyes, the wheaten's eyes are reddish brown to medium brown and even shades of yellow. The Tibetan's ears hang like pendants beside the head while the wheaten's ears fold forward and are level with the skull. The wheaten terrier is larger, measuring 18 to 20 inches tall and 35 to 45 lbs., while a Tibetan terrier stands 14 to 17 inches and weighs 18 to 30 lbs.

    Disposition

    • Tibetan terriers are considered "big dogs in little dogs' bodies." Although they are playful, athletic and agile, they are also naturally calm, gentle and laid back, according to The Tibetan Terriers Club of America. Wheaten terriers are also lively, active dogs, but they are known for being much more exuberant, jumping and licking people to show their dominance. They require much firmer handling from their owners than do Tibetans. Daily walks and play times are vital for both, but the Tibetan is more likely to chill on the couch with its owner during downtime.

    Coat

    • Both dogs need extensive grooming to care for their long coats. Tibetan terriers have double coats, so they are considered "non-shedding" and need to be brushed every two or three days to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Wheaten terriers have single, wavy coats that require daily combing instead of brushing to create a natural fuzzy look.