Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

FriendlyPlayfulStubborn streakAffectionateAlert

The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is a friendly, outgoing dog that tends to love people and wants to be part of whatever the household is doing. Many are patient and playful with children, though they can be a little boisterous with toddlers and may chase small pets. They are usually sociable with other dogs but can be stubborn in training, so consistent, positive methods work best.

Day to day, this breed needs regular walks, a chance to run, and mental work such as short training sessions or puzzle toys. Their silky coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent mats, and they do best with company rather than long hours alone. Most are happiest in homes where they are included in family life.

Good for: Active families, owners who enjoy grooming and training

Size	medium
Weight	40–44 lb
Height	7–7 in
Exercise	about 60 min a day
Shedding	low

Before you choose a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

Expect regular brushing and consistent training, since this breed is smart but can be stubborn.

Living with a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

Exercise

Plan on about an hour of walking or active play a day, along with some off-leash running in safe areas. Mental stimulation helps prevent boredom.

Grooming

The soft, wavy coat sheds very little but mats easily, so brushing several times a week is needed. Professional trimming every few months is common, and bathing as needed.

Health

This breed can be prone to kidney disease (protein-losing nephropathy), Addison's disease, and some skin and joint problems. Ask your vet about screening and early checkups.

Protein-losing nephropathy
Addison's disease
Hip dysplasia

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

Feeding, adult

2.5–3.25 cups a day

About 1,019 kcal, roughly 19 lb of dry food a month at 40–44 lb. Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$1,850–$3,150

Food about $750, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 32°F. Comfortable in most weather: watch pavement heat above 85°F and add a coat below freezing if the coat is short.

LIVE · New York

–

Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers shed?

They shed very little, which makes them a good fit for many allergy-prone households. Their coat still needs regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats.

Can a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier live in an apartment?

Yes, if they get daily walks and play. They are fairly adaptable, but they do best with people around and may bark if left alone for long periods.

Do they bark a lot?

They are alert and will bark at visitors or noises, but they are not usually excessive barkers. Early training helps keep barking manageable.