Wheaten Terrier Tail
The wheaten terrier has many distinct features, including a long tail and an erect, broad head. Although its coat can be wavy and unmanageable, its body shape is symmetrical and its head is proportionately large for its size. The wheaten terrier has a long, soft, and wavy coat. The coat is either white or grey and can be straight, curly, or matted.
During the early history of the Wheaten, tail docking was performed to denote the working status of the dog. Many poor Irish farmers did not own large hunting dogs and preferred the convenience of having a smaller dog to keep.
A Wheaten terrier with a stumpy tail would not have to be fed as much as a large hunting dog, so its dewlapped tail was a practical choice. In the mid-19th century, the Wheaten became so popular that it was recognized as a breed by the Irish Kennel Club in 1937. During the championship, the Wheaten was required to hunt badgers and rats. Its tail was a way to avoid paying taxes that favored the nobility.
When imported, the first Wheatens arrived in the U.S. in November 1946. The Boston Globe Post reported that a freighter from Belfast brought seven Wheatens to the U.S. Two of the pups went to Lydia Vogel in Springfield, Massachusetts, and were shown at the Westminster Kennel Club in 1947. The first American Wheaten Terrier club was founded in Brooklyn in 1962, and the original meeting included three of the pioneering Wheatens.
Despite its soft coat and soft-coated appearance, the Wheaten terrier is a friendly, sociable dog.
The wheaten terrier’s unique twirl greetings both friends and strangers. Unlike other terrier breeds, it is highly energetic and requires daily exercise. While it is very gentle and friendly around children, it can be overwhelming for small children. A soft-coated Wheaten is a loving companion for active families.
A soft-coated wheaten terrier is an all-purpose farm dog originally developed in Ireland. It was originally bred to hunt vermin and guard the family. Their temperaments suited their purpose well, and the breed was eventually recognized by the Irish Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club in 1973. The wheaten terrier was able to survive these environments and become a popular and prestigious pet.
Soft-coated Wheatens need constant companionship. They are not good alone, however, and should be socialized with other animals before being left unsupervised for long periods. Wheaten terriers are also likely to chew and dig holes. However, this behavior can be remedied by hiring a dog sitter. A soft-coated Wheaten may not show signs of separation anxiety unless you are around for many hours.
The tail of a Wheaten terrier can be quite striking, and if it is a part of the dog’s coat, it means that the terrier has a high level of energy. Because they are very active, the Wheaten needs a moderate amount of exercise daily. If left alone for prolonged periods, it may bark and jump. If left alone for too long, it may become destructive and may even suffer from separation anxiety. A crate may be necessary to prevent such behavior.
The soft-coated Wheaten terrier is prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
Although the disease is not painful, it can cause pain and can be inherited. Early symptoms of PRA include dilated pupils and night blindness. Genetic testing for this disease is available. During a Wheaten terrier’s lifespan, it is likely to grow older, so it is best to get a vet for regular checkups to ensure it is not suffering from any diseases.
Wheaties also have strong hunting instincts and a high prey drive. As a result, they will chase anything moving or running away. While these characteristics can make them a nuisance when left alone, Wheaties are fun and playful, and they will stay playful well into their senior years. If you’re considering a Wheatie for adoption, make sure you choose the right breed for your lifestyle. If you love dogs, you’ll love this breed, and want to add a new member to your family, consider a soft-coated Wheaten Terrier to your family.
The soft-coated Wheaten terrier is excellent for children. They will entertain kids for hours if you let them play with them. However, remember that children under six should never be left alone with a dog – especially one that can attack someone. Incorrect communication between the two can result in an accident. A soft-coated Wheaten terrier is a great dog for a busy family. They are also great with most dogs, although the Soft-Coated version will chase small animals outside.
Meet Rose Camilla, an expert in the Terrier dog breed and an active writer and publisher. Camilla has been working with Terriers for over 12 years and her passion for them has only grown stronger with time. She has dedicated her life to understanding, training, and writing about Terriers.
