Wheatens are joyful, people-loving terriers — softer in temperament than their cousins and famous for the leaping, full-body ‘wheaten greetin”. They need daily exercise and training to channel that bounce, plus frequent brushing and trimming of the silky, low-shedding single coat (it mats easily). Affectionate and good with families, they suit an active home that enjoys an enthusiastic, sociable dog.
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Vet-reviewed by Dr. Amara Okafor, DVM
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
A happy, bouncy Irish farm terrier with a soft, silky coat and an exuberant 'wheaten greetin'' — friendlier and softer-tempered than most terriers, but every bit as lively.
Temperament
- Happy
- Friendly
- Energetic
- Affectionate
- Spirited
Likes
- Bouncy play and exercise
- Greeting their people with joy
- Being included in family life
- Training and games
Dislikes
- Being left alone
- Boredom
- Skipped grooming (mats)
- A sedentary home
Habits & quirks
- The leaping 'wheaten greetin''
- Bouncy, exuberant energy
- Following their family around
- A coat that needs frequent grooming
Great for
- Active families with kids
- Allergy-conscious homes (low-shedding)
- Owners who enjoy an enthusiastic dog
- People who'll keep up grooming
Think twice if…
- Sedentary or absent owners
- People unwilling to groom
- Homes wanting a calm, aloof dog
- Owners who dislike jumping
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier: quick answers
How big does the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier get?
An adult Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier typically weighs 14–18 kg and stands around 43–49 cm at the shoulder — a medium breed.
How long does the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier live?
12–14 years is typical for the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier. Weight, genetics and routine veterinary care all move the needle — regular check-ups matter at every age.
Is the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier good with kids?
The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier rates 5/5 on our family-friendliness scale — one of the stronger choices for homes with children. Early socialisation and supervision still matter far more than breed for any dog around kids.
Does the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier shed a lot?
Not much — the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a light shedder (1/5 on our scale), one of the easier breeds for keeping hair under control.
Is the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier easy to train?
Yes — the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier rates 4/5 for trainability. It’s a quick study that responds well to short, consistent, reward-based sessions.
Can the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier live in an apartment?
Yes — the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier can do well in an apartment as long as its exercise needs are met with daily walks and play.
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
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Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
