History of Wheatens
The farmers of the counties of Munster – Claire, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford – used terriers as general farm dogs. They protected people and property, worked cattle, kept down vermin, hunted badgers and foxes, and were even used as gun dogs. While the exact history is unknown, it seems clear that the three long-legged terriers of Ireland – the Soft Coated Wheaten, the Irish, and the Kerry Blue – all share a common background. The Wheaten was also probably involved in the development of the short-legged Glen of Imaal Terrier. The Wheaten was not even recognized as a breed by the Irish Kennel Club until 1937. Lydia Vogel of Massachusetts brought the first Wheatens to the United States in the 1940s. Real activity in the breed did not begin in this country until the late 1950s when the O’Connors and Arnolds imported their dogs. Wheatens were exhibited in the AKC Miscellaneous Class until October 1973 when they became recognized and exhibited in regular classes.
WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW
Wheatens temperament is very unique, combining the alert intelligence of the terrier with the stamina of a working dog. They are very spunky and extremely affectionate. They retain their puppy energy level their whole lives, there is no slowing them down...They are known for Zoomies! With that said, they are also very adaptable dogs and will be happy in city living or on land in the country. All they really care about is being close to their people and getting daily exercise. Like with any dog, all small children should be supervised when the dog is present. Because of the Wheatens exuberance and high activity level, it can sometimes overwhelm small children. Most wheatens will bark (like an alarm) if they hear or sense something but generally speaking they are not big barkers or what some would call yappy dogs. Something that is very important and a requirement for wheatens, is having a fenced yard or a safe place to walk or take them for exercise. They are known to wander and chase small animals, cars, or really anything that moves as these dogs have a high prey drive. Wheatens can and will leap straight up off the floor. They are chronic leash pullers. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is not for everyone. Your pup must know that he is a dog and therefore below the human family in the “pecking” order. Wheatens generally want to be leaders and can be stubborn and headstrong. They need consistent, firm discipline but are sensitive to harsh treatment. They are quite trainable but it takes more work, time, and dedication than with some other breeds.
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A Commitment for Life
A Wheaten puppy should not be an impulse purchase. Buying a Wheaten is a commitment for the life of a dog that may live 12 years or more. You owe it to yourself to shop carefully and make sure that you are getting a quality pet who has been bred and raised to ensure a sound body and a sound mind. Make sure that a Wheaten is the right pet for you and your family.
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Training
You’ve got this high-energy, clever, not to mention willful ball of fur… and you want to make sure he knows that he has to behave. Training your Wheaten as a puppy, when he still wants to please, is a lot faster and easier than trying to make up for lost time once he’s been enjoying his freedom. The Wheaten temperament can make them a challenge to train. They’re typically smart dogs with their own agendas in life, which seldom includes what you want them to do. If they get away with too much for too long, you’ll find yourself with an unruly and difficult adult Wheaten –not a good companion for any family. If you want your Wheaten to be all he can be, take him to Puppy Kindergarten and/or Basic Obedience classes. You won’t be sorry.
Grooming
Grooming is important to keep your dog neat and clean between baths. Beyond that, a matted dog is uncomfortable. Those tight mats pull on the skin as they move. Being a dog, he tries to get them out with the only tools he has, his teeth and his nails, and sometimes winds up breaking his skin in the process. Regular grooming is also an indirect way to establish some control over your Wheaten. You should be brushing your Wheaten at least twice a week to help prevent matts and keep your pup used to being groomed.
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