by Rena Sherwood

Created on: November 05, 2011   Last Updated: November 06, 2011

The soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, often called “wheatens” or “wheaties” for short, has both an unusual coat color and an unusual temperament for terriers. Unlike many other terrier breeds, Wheatens are often far more quiet and less prone to yapping at the drop of a hat. When Wheatens vocalize, it’s usually for a good reason.  This trait makes Wheatens good watchdogs.

Wheatens have successfully been trained as therapy dogs, particularly for visiting patients in hospitals. Wheatens are intelligent, people-loving animals that can get easily bored and become quite mischievous.

Needs Exercise

Wheatens were bred in Ireland in the 1700s as an all-around farm dog. A Wheaten cleared the barns of rodents, checked the fields with his master and then sat under his master’s chair at the local pub. Wheatens had to deal with people, cats, large animals, loud noises, strange smells and large families but they were also bred to be on the move most of the day.

Today’s Wheatens retain their level-headedness provided they get at least one 30 minute walk per day and plenty of chances to romp in enclosed space. If Wheatens are denied chances at regular exercise, they can get hyper and develop bad habits out of boredom. Wheatens also should never be strictly outdoor watchdogs. They are far more trainable and level-headed when allowed to interact with their family or individual owner. 

What About Children?

Wheatens have a great reputation as family dogs, but they still need training and regular exercise. Children need to treat a Wheaten gently and compassionately.  They cannot tolerate teasing or tail-pulling. Also, no matter how friendly or long-suffering a dog is, never leave small children under the age of 8 alone with a dog.  This is for the dog’s safety as well as the child’s. 

Wheatens have a habit of exuberantly greeting friends, which can include jumping up on people and licking their faces. This could potentially knock over or frighten a child. Although Wheatens can be trained not to jump up on people, this training takes time. Jumpy puppies and dogs should be on a lead when meeting a child for the first time, so the owner can help control the dog should they become bouncy.

In Conclusion

Not all soft-coated Wheaten Terriers will behave the same. Individual temperaments are molded by individual health, past history and training. But Wheatens in general are the quietest of the terrier breeds. They love people and try to please. They may develop some silly habits in order to help train their people, such as sleeping on their backs to invite tummy-rubs. But Wheatens need regular exercise in order to keep their temperaments sweet.

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