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Some of the best attributes of a soft coated
wheaten terrier include:
- their affection and devotion to human
beings
- their intelligence which makes them easy
to train and ideal for sports such as obedience or herding
- their sense of humour (they are the only
terrier breed with the word in their standard)
- their reliability as a watch dog
- their lack of aggression towards people
and other dogs
- their determination to keep owners
premises free of rats etc.
- their non shedding coat which simply
needs a thorough brush at least once a week
- their robust health status
- the intelligent people who are attracted
to them and become devoted to the well being of the breed
However, it is all summed up in the comment
of one dedicated owner: 'If you want to know about the temperament of a
Wheaten Terrier, recall the most congenial and delightful Irish drinker
you have ever met.'
Wheatens as pets
Personality
Wheatens make the perfect pet for many
people, but a wheaten may not be the right pet for you. Wheatens need a
certain amount of love and attention. As with all dogs, it is
important to establish who is in charge to have a dog that is sociable.
Although they do not require a large amount
of space and are very
comfortable indoors, wheatens still require some regular exercise - a
daily walk or romp. Wheatens have personality, and are not beyond
huffing or sulking if they don't get their regular outing!
In the United States wheatens are referred
to “the asthma
sufferers dog” as they have low dander. While they are one of
the better breeds for allergy sufferers, anyone suffering
from serious allergies should discuss the suitability of this
breed with their medical practitioner and visit a kennel before making
a final decision.
Wheatens do need to be regularly
groomed (see Grooming).
Wheatens are also a a relatively expensive breed to buy, with typical
prices in Australia starting around $1,300.
Nutrition
Wheatens, like other breeds, can develop food and other allergies.
Dogs can become allergic to any meat protein source, even if they've
previously eaten it all their lives without incident. Common protein
sources in commercial dog food are beef, lamb and chicken.
All commercial dog foods are not equal and some brands, usually those
available from veterinary surgeries or specialist pet supply shops,
contain better quality ingredients.
Dogs can also develop intolerance to other types of food, not just
meat protein sources, and to things in their environment such as
plants and fleas. If you think your dog may be developing an
intolerance to any food source or anything in its environment, it's
important to seek veterinary attention.
Some signs of intolerance and allergies:
- vomiting
- diahorrea
- skin rashes / infections / hot spots
- constant scratching
- shaking head (possible ear infection)
- hair loss
If your wheaten is suffering from a diagnosed medical condition you
may need to keep your dog on a special diet. Please see the health
pages for more information.
Unlike other breeds, Wheatens tend to graze,
rather than guzzle their food. If they do not finish their meal in
fifteen minutes they may prefer to come back later and finish it off.
Wheatens require a regular brushing to keep
them tangle free. Thorough
brushing at least once a week is required, and wheatens should be
washed about once a month. Tip: brush the wheaten before bathing,
otherwise knots will become matted.
Parasites
Wheatens are no different to other breeds
when it comes to fleas and
ticks. Regular treatment for heartworm and other intestinal worms.
Vaccinations
Make sure that your puppy has been
vaccinated against: parvo,
distemper, influenza and kennel cough before
collection. You should
receive a vaccination certificate from the breeder.
Please make sure that your puppy gets its
second booster by
13–14 weeks of age. It should not go into any public place
where other dogs have been (which is everywhere) until 7–10
days after this booster. This is particularly pertinent during hot
summer weather. Some vets may advise a third injection and thereafter
you should ensure annual vaccination.
Breed Standard
There are various breed standards used
across the world. The Australian
National Kennel Club (ANKC) recognises by default the UK standard
introduced in 1978 and revised in 1994, referenced below:
Other standards in use internationally are:
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