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Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

Also called Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Wheaten, Wheatie, An Brocaire Buí

A lively, good-humoured terrier that adores its family and greets people with bouncy enthusiasm.

SizeMedium
Weight13.6 to 20.5 kg (30 to 45 lb)males 14 to 20.5 kg, females 13.6 to 15.9 kg12
Height43 to 50 cm (17 to 20 in)males 45 to 50 cm, females 43 to 46 cm12
Lifespanfrom 12 years32
CoatSingle, soft, silky coat, wavy or loosely curled; low shedding
OriginIreland123
GroupTerriers (FCI group 3)
Recognised breedShort profile
affectionate and loyal
playful and good with children
intelligent and trainable
12

Personality what they are like

A lively, good-humoured terrier that adores its family and greets people with bouncy enthusiasm. It is smart, learns well with reward-based training and tends to be more easygoing with other dogs than many terriers, while still making an alert watchdog.12

Coat and looks how to spot one

single, soft, silky coat, wavy or loosely curled; low shedding

A sturdy, short-coupled terrier that gives an impression of strength in a medium frame. It has one layer of soft, silky hair with a gentle wave or loose curl that keeps growing rather than shedding much. Two coat styles are seen: the finer, wavier Irish coat and the fuller, heavier coat common in America.123

Colourslight wheatengolden wheatenreddish-gold wheaten12

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate to high: up to about an hour of exercise a day. It is quite active and curious, and prefers cooler weather.32

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Needs daily brushing and combing right down to the skin to keep the silky coat free of mats, plus regular trimming because the hair keeps growing.32

Home where they are happiest

Adapts well to family homes; a secure garden helps, as its curiosity can lead it to wander.2

Company who they like around

Very people-oriented and generally sociable with children and other dogs, especially when well socialised young.2

The story where it all began

For at least two centuries the Wheaten was Ireland's everyday farm dog, herding and guarding stock and keeping vermin down, and it was also used on badger and otter. It is thought to be the oldest of the Irish terriers and possibly an ancestor of the Kerry Blue and Irish Terrier. Official recognition came in 1937 in Ireland, 1943 in Britain and 1973 in the United States.132

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its enthusiastic habit of jumping up to lick faces is affectionately called the 'Wheaten greetin''.2

  2. 2

    Puppies are born much darker, and the coat lightens and changes over the first 18 months to 2.5 years before settling into its wheaten shade.1

  3. 3

    It was nicknamed the 'poor man's wolfhound' because it was the working dog of ordinary Irish farmers rather than the gentry.2

  4. 4

    Its Irish name, An Brocaire Buí, means 'the yellow terrier'.2

  5. 5

    Some Wheatens take part in herding trials, a nod to their farm-dog past.2

Name ideas for your new friend

BrambleCloverDaisyFinnGoldieHoneyLuckyMistyNiamhPaddyRoryWillow

A day in the life told by a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

I bounce out of bed, ready for fun. My family calls me silly, and I greet them with a happy dance. We walk in the cool morning, sniffing flowers and wagging at other dogs. I love to learn tricks for treats. Back home, I guard the house with a soft bark at the postman. In the garden, I chase butterflies. Evenings are for cuddles on the sofa. I am a cheerful friend, always full of joy.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Irish Kennel Club
Recognised 19371
FCI
Standard No. 40, Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 (Large and medium-sized Terriers); standard published 27 Jan 20011
The Royal Kennel Club
Terrier Group; recognised 19433
AKC
Terrier Group; recognised 19732

Popularity Ranked 76th of AKC-registered breeds in 20254

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Frozen Yoghurt and Fruit Treats

These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for warm days and use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Yoghurt provides calcium and probiotics, while strawberries and apple add vitamins and natural sweetness.

You need

  • 30g plain, unsweetened yoghurt (no additives or sweeteners)
  • 2-3 medium strawberries (washed and chopped)
  • Half a small apple (cored and chopped into small pieces)

How

  1. Wash the strawberries and apple thoroughly. Core the apple and chop both fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Mix the chopped fruit together in a small bowl.
  3. Place a few pieces of fruit (no more than five) into each compartment of a small silicone mould or ice cube tray. Each mould should be roughly 30mm x 25mm x 17mm or smaller.
  4. Pour the plain yoghurt over the fruit, filling each mould to the top.
  5. Place the mould or tray in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully frozen.
  6. Pop the treats out of the moulds and serve immediately.

How much: Small dogs can have one treat per day; medium/large dogs can have two per day. These count towards the 10% treat allowance, so reduce your dog's main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, and at what times?

Feed adult dogs at least two meals a day; puppies need three to four smaller meals. Timings vary, so ask your vet for a schedule that suits your dog.5

What should a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Offer a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog's age, following the food label. Never give chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, or other foods listed as toxic by the ASPCA.6

How often should I bathe a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier?

A general rule is at least once every three months, but your dog may need more frequent baths. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier need brushing?

Daily brushing and combing right down to the skin is essential to prevent mats in the silky coat. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends weekly brushing, but daily is ideal.32 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about once a month. Cut a little at a time to avoid the quick. Pet Wiki's plan suggests trimming every 28 days.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier need?

Your Wheaten needs up to an hour of exercise each day, including walks and play. They are active and curious, so enjoy varied activities and cooler weather.32 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth ideally daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears weekly for redness or odor. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every two days and ear checks every two weeks.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier live?

Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers typically live around 12 years or more.32

Is a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are generally sociable with children and other dogs, especially when well socialized from puppyhood. They are friendly and adore their family.2

Can a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier be left alone?

This breed is very people-oriented and may not enjoy long periods alone. It's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for advice on your specific dog.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. FCI breed standard No. 40: Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier fci.beused for recognition, size, weight, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Wikipedia: Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for names, size, lifespan study, history timeline, temperament, fun facts
  3. The Royal Kennel Club: Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier royalkennelclub.comused for lifespan, exercise, grooming, history
  4. AKC: Most popular dog breeds of 2025 akc.orgused for popularity
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.