Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Also known as Terrier Irlandais A Poil Doux · Irischer Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier · Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Irlandés
Ireland, Large and medium sized Terriers
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 44–49 cm
- Weight
- 14–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Cheerful
- Affectionate
- Spirited
- Confident
- Family-minded
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized farm terrier from Ireland, traditionally an all-round working dog used for guarding, herding and controlling vermin. It is sturdy and square-built, recognised by its soft, wavy, wheat-coloured coat that covers the face and body. Puppies are born darker and the coat lightens as they mature. It is a lively, family-minded terrier with a good deal of charm.
Temperament
Cheerful, affectionate and confident, with the typical terrier spark. Often exuberant with greetings and fond of people. It can be strong-willed and may chase small animals, so early socialisation and consistent training help.
Exercise
Needs around an hour of daily activity, such as walks, play and games. It enjoys running and digging, so a secure garden is useful.
Grooming
The soft single coat does not shed much but mats easily. Daily or near-daily brushing and combing is needed, with regular professional trimming.
Care & wellbeing
Coat care is a real time commitment, so build in grooming habits early. Keep up dental care and check ears.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 17 kg adult- Water
- 680 ml–1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 940 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
An old Irish farm terrier used as an all-round working dog, handling vermin and helping with livestock. It was kept by tenant farmers and later shown as a breed in its own right, prized for its soft, wavy, non-moulting coat.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Protein-losing conditions (PLE and PLN)
- Food and skin allergies
- Addison's disease
- Renal dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Kidney and protein-loss screening
- Eye tests
- DNA tests where available
Not every Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier get?
Adult Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers typically stand about 44–49 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 14–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to protein-losing conditions (ple and pln), food and skin allergies, addison's disease. Not every Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Ireland
- Type
- Large and medium sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1957