Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an Irish breed with history spanning at least 200 years, developed as versatile farm dogs handling various tasks including herding, guarding, and vermin control. Standing 17-19 inches tall and weighing 30-40 pounds, Wheatens are medium-sized terriers with sturdy, compact builds. Their most distinctive feature is their soft, silky, wheaten-colored coat that ranges from pale beige to shimmering gold.

Unlike most terriers with harsh coats, Wheatens have single coats that are soft and silky with gentle waves. Their coats don't shed significantly but require regular grooming to prevent matting. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have rectangular-shaped heads, dark, medium-sized eyes conveying intelligence and alertness, and small to medium V-shaped ears folding forward.

They have level backs, deep chests, and tails traditionally docked but increasingly left natural, carried gaily. These terriers have open, friendly expressions unusual for terrier breeds. Wheaten puppies are born with darker coats that lighten to characteristic wheaten color as they mature, typically around 18-24 months.

Their soft coats require significant grooming commitment. These versatile Irish farm dogs remain active, capable workers.