Origin
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier originates from Ireland where they were originally bred to hunt vermin and guard farms. They are happy, fun-loving terriers that make wonderful family pets because they thrive on being around people and in a home environment. These little dogs may be high maintenance in the grooming department, but the effort is well worth it because Wheaties are so much fun to have around thanks to the fact they remain so “puppy-like” throughout their lives.
It's thought that the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier first appeared on the scene in Ireland around 200 years ago. They were bred to work on farms and considered to be a "poor man's dog”. They had to do many jobs around a farm which included hunting, guarding and herding livestock all of which were tasks these terriers proved themselves to be very good at becoming highly prized “ratters”. They are thought to be one of Ireland's oldest terrier breeds although their true origins remain a bit of a mystery.
For a long time, these farm terriers were allowed to breed quite freely and it was not until the 1930's that breed standards were established by the Irish Kennel Club and which at the time included four terrier breeds. There is some thought that Wheaten Terriers could well be one of the founding breeds for another Irish dog namely the Kerry Blue Terrier. These charming little terriers were finally recognised as a breed in the own right by The Kennel Club in 1943 and over the years, they have earned themselves the reputation for being trustworthy, reliable and affectionate dogs that make great family pets and companions.
