About Wheaton Terriers

If you're looking for a dog as a pet, you probably want to know about the various breeds available to you. One breed you might consider is the Wheaton terrior. Knowing even the basics about the breed (size and care) can help you decide whether the Wheaton terrior is the right dog for you.

  1. Appearance

    • Wheaton terriers are boxy shaped, medium-sized dogs. They have a coat that is soft and wavy. This coat usually is the color of wheat, which is where the breed's name originates. They average about a foot and a half tall and 35 pounds.

    Disposition

    • Wheaton terriers are energetic and happy dogs. They are loyal and tend to be stable in terms of how they act. Their alertness makes them good guard dogs. However, they do tend to be anxious to investigate and can be a tad aggressive in defense or when hunting something, so owners need to socialize them well if they're going to be around children.

    Grooming

    • A Wheaton terrier's coat mats easily. Frequent grooming is required to keep the dog looking its best---every day is preferred. If grooming isn't done enough, the hair will mat and the terrier will try to clean the mats out by biting and chewing the hair.

    Traditional Uses

    • Wheaton terriers were traditionally used as farm dogs. They not only herded but also hunted vermin and protected the land owners. The dog was used mainly because of stipulations from the nobility that dictated what size and type of dog lower class individuals could own.

    Health Considerations

    • Like other breeds, Wheaton terriers are prone to hip problems and skin irritations. Owners need to take their terriers to the vet routinely to prevent and treat these conditions.