Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dog breed

Terrier Dogs

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12

Size: MediumLife Span: 12 to 15 yearsWeight: 30 to 40 poundsHeight: 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder

Size

Medium

Life Span

12 to 15 years

Weight

30 to 40 pounds

Height

17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder

Breed Group

Terrier Dogs

🏠
3

Adaptability

❤️
5

Friendliness

🎓
3

Trainability

4

Energy

💊
4

Health

🧠
4

Intelligence

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier — Key Facts

Weight: 30 to 40 pounds
Height: 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder
Size: Medium
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Group: Terrier Dogs

About the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium terrier dog known for being deeply loving with its family and outgoing and sociable. With a highly intelligent mind, adaptable to most living situations, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Typically standing 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 30 to 40 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, making it a long-lived companion for the right family.

Originally classified within the Terrier Dogs group, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.

Temperament

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.

Friendly and open with new people, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier barks at a moderate level — enough to alert you, not enough to disturb the neighbours. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a moderate prey drive — keep an eye on small animals nearby.

Health & Lifespan

With a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a long-lived breed — a serious commitment. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.

Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a moderate tendency to gain weight — monitor portion sizes and avoid too many treats. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.

Is this breed right for you?

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of the most approachable breeds for first-time owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. Compact living spaces are no problem for this breed.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. Cold climates suit this breed well. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.

In summary, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a sociable and loving terrier dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier good with kids?

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.

How much exercise does a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier need?

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.

Does the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier shed a lot?

No — the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a minimal shedder, making it a popular option for households concerned about allergies or keeping the home clean.

Own a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier?

Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier owners in Hushku.

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