Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Key facts
| FCI group | 3. Terriers |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Ireland |
| Category | Medium |
| Weight | 18–20.5 kg |
Recognition features
- Single-layer soft, silky wheaten coat, wavy or loosely curled
- Profuse whiskers and hair over the eyes
- Short-coupled, nearly square build with a gaily carried tail
Purpose
All-round Irish farm terrier used to kill vermin and formerly to hunt badger and otter.
History
The Wheaten is probably the oldest of the four Irish terriers, with references to "soft-coated" dogs going back at least 200 years. Small farmers used it against vermin and on the farm. The Irish Kennel Club recognised it only in 1937.
Coat
Single coat, soft and silky, wavy or loosely curled; wheaten. Puppies go through several changes of colour and texture before maturity.
Similar breeds
- Kerry Blue Terrier · Compare
- Irish Terrier · Compare
- Airedale Terrier · Compare
- Bedlington Terrier · Compare
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
In the Dogtice quiz you practise breeds on photos and see the differences between look-alike breeds.
The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.