Overview: The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is an energetic and very playful dog that adores its master. It often gets along well with other dog breeds and even other animals. Strangers aren't normally a problem for this canine once it gets to know them a little. It isn't difficult to train as it responds well to new things. It can make a good watchdog, however it doesn't do very well as a guard dog. Grooming requires a fair amount of attention due to the coat it wears. It is somewhat resistant to cold temperatures but can be very uncomfortable in hot weather.

Temperament: This breed makes a very playful and fun partner both in the home and outside. Unlike most terriers, the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is quite gentle with the people it is around. It is good when around children and with other animals that live with its master. It may be stubborn at times, however, it usually complies with commands of its master. It may start to dig and may jump if it becomes bored.

History: The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of three different Terriers from Ireland. This breed was originally used as a farm dog for hunting rodents. It was also used to herd and round up live stock as well as guarding the home. At some point it was even used as a gun dog for hunters. Most of its origins have been left undocumented. Some believe it is an ancestor to the Kerry Blue Terrier. Although it was known for hundreds of years in Ireland, it wasn't until 1937 that it was given official breed status. It has been Irish tradition in Championships that in order for a dog breed to be recognized it must first do well in the ring. Then it must do well against a badger, rat, and a rabbit. The English Kennel Club took notice of this breed in 1943. Only a few years later is when the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier arrived in the United States. It took some time for the breed to gain recognition from the public. Less than a decade later the AKC accepted it for registration. It still only receives a limited amount of popularity to this day.

Names: There is no other name the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier goes by.

Groups: The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973 and assigned to the Terrier Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier can be 17 to 19 inches in height and can way between 30 and 40 lb. Unlike other Terriers, this breed has a single coat that covers the whole body while still being abundant. The texture of the coat is described as soft and silky with a gentle wave running through it. While the main color of the hair is Wheaten there may be red and/or black hairs that appear every once in a while.

Care: As an athletic breed, this dog needs to have a daily workout with either a long walk or energy expending games in a field. If let loose in a large area, be sure that it is safe as it loves to explore and could get into trouble. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is best suited to live inside with its master with access to the outdoors. The coat on this dog needs to be brushed every two days with bathing and trimming every couple of months.