Titles that are confusing
This breed has many names, but always the same character – sincere, lively and a bit artistic. In the world it is called Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, in our country – Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, and sometimes just Wheaten Terrier. There is also the name SoftCoated Irish Terrier, although this is already bordering on a mistake – because with the Irish Terrier (that red, with a stiff coat) he has in common only the origin.
And indeed, the coat of this dog is a separate story. It is soft, wavy, golden, like ripe wheat in the wind. It is she who gave the breed its name – not for its fighting merits or service duties, but for its beauty. Such a coat wants to touch your face. And it has become the breed’s trademark – an object of admiration and the main challenge in grooming.
How it all started in Ireland
Before they were Dog People’s Favorites, these dogs were simple country toilers. In Ireland, on green hills and near stone cottages, they guarded yards, chased rats, helped herd livestock and were part of every family.
They were bred hundreds of years ago as a cheaper and less fussy alternative to other terriers.
These dogs only became officially recognized in the 20th century, but before that they were already in the hearts of many Irish people. To this day, the wheaten terrier is a dog that has not forgotten its roots: modest, brave, friendly and always on guard – not of the yard, but of its master’s emotions.
Breed description
The Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog. Its height at the withers is about 45-50 cm, weight – from 16 to 20 kg. The physique is a little rectangular, with expressive muscles and elastic gait.
The eyes are dark, almond-shaped, always attentive. Ears – bent forward, like small flags. And the fur. It is soft, like freshly whipped cappuccino – soft, shiny, wheat-golden, a little wavy.
Character of the Wheaten Irish Terrier
The breed has no maliciousness or predatory suspicion, although the terrier vein does not give rest – this dog is always on the move, always in adventure. Even glows with joy.
Wheaten terrier adores people, and children – especially. He will run, roll around, tolerate cuddles and make up games. He is not barking, but he is quite attentive. Not confrontational, although with cats should be introduced carefully – hunting instincts are alive.
The main thing – do not try to dominate rudely. Wheaten terrier is an intellectual with emotions. With him it is necessary to conduct a dialog, not dictate. In this case, he reveals himself fully: affectionate, cheerful, infinitely loyal and always with a spark in his eyes.
American or Irish: what is the difference?
Although the wheaten terrier is a breed with a single standard, there are two pronounced types formed in the world: Irish and American. And if you see two wheaten next to each other, you will immediately feel the difference – like between jazz and classical.
The Irish type is closer to the original type – lighter, more agile, with a more natural look. Its coat is finer, shiny, almost silky, and the overall silhouette is graceful and relaxed.
The American variant is somewhat more massive, its coat is thicker, voluminous, with an expressive wave. This type is more often seen at shows in the USA – spectacular, “swollen” and a bit theatrical.
Grooming of the Wheaten Irish Terrier
Without regular combing, the terrier’s coat quickly collapses into dense tangles, loses its natural luster and mobility. But the main thing – together with the silky texture goes away and the characteristic aesthetics of the breed. Because the wheaten terrier is not a dog that should be cut “under the machine”, it is a creature with which the groomer must have a dialog in the form of scissors, comb and patience.
In V.O.G DOG SALON groomers hear the structure of the coat, know how to distribute the volume, how not to lose the natural softness. They work with their fingers carefully, precisely, without pressure. And they create the perfect look for this hard-to-maintain breed.
Wheaten Irish Terrier haircut is a balance between comfort and style. You can choose a classic exhibition version with long legs and a smoky face, or a practical “city” variant – shorter hair on the body, the volume is preserved on the legs and head. And you can add jewelry, a delicate bow, a light perfume – and then your dog will turn into the embodiment of elegance.
Conclusion
The Wheaten Irish Terrier is a character with a sparkle in his eyes, a soul with Irish tenacity and an appearance from which it is impossible to take your eyes off. He harmoniously combines natural gentleness with a lively temperament, requires constant socialization, active life and caring hands.
This is a dog for those who want more, for those who are looking for a real partner in life, a faithful friend, an energetic companion and at the same time a living decoration of their home. But choosing a wheaten terrier, it is worth understanding: the coat here is not a trifle, but a mirror of the breed. It requires love, knowledge and regular care, which is best entrusted to professionals. At V.O.G DOG SALON such dogs are helped to be themselves.
