If you want a terrier without the “terrier attitude,” meet the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Known as the “Poor Man’s Wolfhound” in their native Ireland, these dogs were the all-purpose farm hands of the common folk.

Today, they are beloved for two things: their incredibly soft, silky coat (which is the color of ripening wheat) and their signature welcome, known as the “Wheaten Greet.” A Wheaten doesn’t just wag its tail when you come home; it jumps, spins, and wiggles with a joy that is impossible to resist.

Hypoallergenic, medium-sized, and deeply affectionate, the Wheaten is often called the “goldilocks” dog—not too big, not too small, not too aggressive, but definitely not too calm. They are exuberant, happy dogs who believe everyone is their best friend.

History and Origin: The Irish Farm Dog

The Wheaten is one of four Irish terrier breeds (along with the Irish Terrier, Kerry Blue, and Glen of Imaal). For centuries, they were the poor tenant farmer’s dog. While the nobility had Wolfhounds and Spaniels, the farmers needed a dog that could do it all: herd sheep, guard the property, hunt rats, and accompany the family to church.

Because they were working dogs owned by the poor, their history was largely unrecorded until the 20th century. They were recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1937—making them the last of the Irish terriers to be officially acknowledged.

They arrived in the US in the 1940s and have steadily climbed the popularity charts as people discover their winning combination of low-shedding coats and high-spirited personalities.

Physical Characteristics

The Wheaten is a square, sturdy dog. They look like a teddy bear that has been through the wash cycle—scruffy but soft.

• Height: Males 18-19 inches; females 17-18 inches.
• Weight: 30 to 40 pounds.

The Coat

This is their defining feature. It is a single coat (no undercoat) that falls in loose, silky waves. It feels more like human hair than dog fur.

• Color: Any shade of wheaten, from pale beige to shimmering gold.
• Hypoallergenic: They are very low shedding, making them a top choice for allergy sufferers.

Two Coat Types

1. Irish Coat: Thinner, silkier, and wavier. This is the traditional working coat.
2. American/Heavy Coat: Thicker, fuller, and woollier. This is more common in US show rings and requires more grooming.

Puppy vs. Adult Coat

One of the most surprising things for new owners is that Wheaten puppies are not wheaten-colored! They are born dark brown or reddish with black masks.

• The Transition: Over the first two years, the dark puppy coat grows out and is replaced by the lighter, silky adult coat. It is a slow, magical transformation.

Temperament: The “Wheaten Greet”

Wheatens are happy, extroverted, and bouncy.

Less “Terrier” than most

While they are terriers, they are generally less scrappy and aggressive than their cousins. They tend to get along better with other dogs and are less likely to start a fight. However, they still have a high prey drive for squirrels.

The Greeting

You must be prepared for the welcome. A Wheaten will launch itself into the air to lick your face. Training them to keep “four on the floor” is a lifelong challenge. They simply cannot contain their joy.

People-Oriented

They love people. All people. They make terrible guard dogs because they will likely jump on a burglar to lick them. They do not do well with isolation and want to be part of every family activity.

Energy Level and Exercise

Wheatens are high-energy dogs.

• Daily Exercise: They need 45-60 minutes of vigorous activity. They make excellent jogging partners.
• Play: They retain their puppy-like playfulness well into old age. They love tug-of-war and fetch.
• Digging: Like all terriers, they love to dig. If you leave them alone in the yard, they might excavate a tunnel to China.

Training: Managing the Joy

Wheatens are smart but have a stubborn streak.

1. Managing the Jump: The “Wheaten Greet” is cute but can be dangerous for grandma or toddlers. You must teach them to sit for greetings. Turn your back if they jump; reward heavily when all four feet are on the floor.
2. Positive Reinforcement: They can be sensitive. Harsh words will make them shut down. Use treats and toys to motivate them.
3. Recall: Their prey drive means they should never be off-leash in unfenced areas. If they see a rabbit, they are gone.

Health and Lifespan

Wheatens generally live 12 to 14 years. However, the breed is prone to two serious protein-wasting conditions:

• PLN (Protein-Losing Nephropathy): A kidney disease where protein is lost in urine.
• PLE (Protein-Losing Enteropathy): An intestinal disease where protein is not absorbed.
• Renal Dysplasia: Kidney malformation.
• Addison’s Disease: Adrenal insufficiency.

Crucial: Responsible breeders test specifically for PLN/PLE markers. Ask about the “genetic testing” status of the parents.

Grooming: The High-Maintenance Silk

That beautiful coat is a magnet for burrs, mats, and snowballs.

• Brushing: You must comb (not just brush) them to the skin 3-4 times a week. The fine hair mats incredibly easily, especially behind the ears and legs.
• The “Shag” Look: They should look natural, not sculpted. The traditional trim leaves a “fall” of hair over the eyes and a beard on the chin.
• Bathing: Monthly bathing helps keep the coat silky.

Is a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Right for You?

Yes, if:

• You want a happy, bouncy dog that loves everyone.
• You need a hypoallergenic breed but want something sturdy (not a toy dog).
• You are active and enjoy daily walks.
• You don’t mind a dog jumping on you (or are willing to train consistently).

No, if:

• You want a pristine garden (digging risk).
• You work long hours and want a low-maintenance dog.
• You want a guard dog.
• You are not prepared for daily combing and grooming costs.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a dog of pure joy. Their enthusiasm for life is contagious. If you can handle the grooming and the “bounciness,” you will have a devoted friend who celebrates your existence every single time you walk through the door.