
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- People who want a low-shedding dog
- Families
- Moderately active owners
Watch out for
- Jumps up to greet everyone
- Coat mats without regular brushing
- Can chase small animals
Daily care
Exercise: About an hour a day.
Grooming: Brush several times a week; trim every 6–8 weeks.
Cold weather: Coat gives decent warmth; snow clumps in it, so brush after walks.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- FoodMedium breed dog food
Formulas made for medium breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate30-inch dog crate
A 30" crate fits most adult Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers (up to about 40 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingSlicker brush and metal comb
Low-shedding coats tangle easily; brush a few times a week between grooming visits.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier near you
We're building a list of trusted Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
Medium · 35–60 lb👪 Good family dogSiberian HuskyBuilt for snow and endless running. Huskies are friendly and striking, but need a lot of exercise and a secure yard.
Medium · 40–65 lb👪 Good family dogAustralian ShepherdA brilliant, tireless herding dog. Aussies are loyal and fun, but need a job and plenty of exercise every day.
Medium · 30–55 lbBetter with adults or older kidsBorder CollieOften called the smartest breed. Border Collies excel at training and sports but are a poor fit for a quiet lifestyle.