Soft Coated Wheaten vs Irish Terrier: Which Breed Fits You?

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and Irish Terrier both have roots in Ireland. These terrier breeds share a common ancestry but developed distinct characteristics over time. Let’s take a look at these two dog breeds!

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Physical Characteristics

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Irish Terriers have distinct physical traits that set them apart. Their size, coat types, and breed standards offer unique features for potential owners to consider.

Size and Weight

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are medium-sized dogs. Males stand 18-19 inches tall and weigh 35-40 pounds. Females are slightly smaller at 17-18 inches tall and 30-35 pounds.
• Irish Terriers are also medium-sized. They typically stand 18-20 inches tall. Males weigh around 27-30 pounds, while females weigh 25-28 pounds.
• Both breeds have a sturdy build and athletic appearance. They are well-proportioned with strong legs and a balanced body structure.

Coat Type and Color

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have a distinctive coat that sets them apart. Their coat is soft, silky, and wavy. It requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
• The coat color ranges from light wheat to golden red. Puppies are born darker and lighten as they mature.
• Irish Terriers have a wiry double coat. The outer coat is dense and harsh, while the undercoat is softer. Their coat is typically bright red, golden red, or wheaten.
• Irish Terriers shed less than Wheaten Terriers. However, they need regular stripping to maintain their coat texture.

Breed Standards

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers should have a square outline. Their head is rectangular with a defined stop. Eyes are dark reddish-brown or brown. Ears are small and fold forward.
• The tail is set high and carried upright. It may be docked in countries where it’s allowed.
• Irish Terriers have a long, rectangular head. Their eyes are small and dark. Ears are small and V-shaped, folding forward close to the cheeks.
• Their body is compact with a level topline. The tail is set high and carried upright. It’s often docked to about three-quarters of its original length where permitted.
• Both breeds should move with good reach and drive. They display confidence and alertness in their stance.

Temperament and Behavior

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Irish Terriers have distinct personalities and instincts. These breeds differ in their energy levels, friendliness, and protective tendencies.

Personality Traits

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are friendly and affectionate. They love being around people and make great family pets. These dogs are energetic and playful, often keeping their puppy-like behavior well into adulthood.
• Irish Terriers are known for their bold and daring nature. They are intelligent and independent, sometimes showing a stubborn streak. These dogs are loyal to their families and can be quite affectionate with those they trust.
• Both breeds are smart and trainable, but they may need consistent guidance to channel their energy positively.

Prey Drive and Hunting Instincts

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have a moderate prey drive. They may chase small animals, but their instinct is not as strong as some other terrier breeds.
• Irish Terriers have a higher prey drive. Their hunting instincts are more pronounced, and they may be more likely to chase after small animals. This behavior stems from their history as versatile farm dogs.
• Both breeds enjoy activities that engage their hunting instincts, such as fetch or agility courses. Proper training and socialization can help manage their prey drive.

Guarding and Protection Tendencies

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are generally not known for strong guarding instincts. They may bark to alert their owners of visitors, but they are typically friendly with strangers.
• Irish Terriers are more inclined to act as watchdogs. They are naturally alert and protective of their families. While not aggressive, they may be more reserved with strangers and quick to sound the alarm.
• Both breeds can make good family protectors, but Irish Terriers tend to be more naturally suited to this role. Early socialization is important for both breeds to ensure they respond appropriately to new people and situations.

Exercise and Training

Both the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and Irish Terrier need plenty of exercise and training. These smart breeds thrive with physical activity and mental stimulation. Early socialization is key for their development as family pets.

Exercise Needs

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have medium exercise requirements. They enjoy daily walks, playtime, and activities that challenge them mentally and physically. A fenced yard is ideal for them to run and explore.
• Irish Terriers have high energy levels and need more exercise. They require long walks, runs, or vigorous play sessions. Without enough activity, they may become restless or destructive.
• Both breeds can reach speeds of up to 22 mph when running. Regular exercise helps keep them healthy and well-behaved.

Training Requirements and Intelligence

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Irish Terriers are intelligent dogs with a independent streak. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent training.
• Wheaten Terriers can be stubborn at times. Early obedience classes help establish good habits. Focus on mastering recall commands to ensure they come when called.
• Irish Terriers are quick learners but can be strong-willed. They need firm, patient training to channel their energy positively. Both breeds benefit from varied training sessions to keep them engaged.

Early Socialization Importance

• Early socialization is crucial for both Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Irish Terriers. It helps them become well-adjusted family pets.
• Expose puppies to different people, animals, and environments from a young age. This builds their confidence and reduces the risk of fearful or aggressive behaviors later in life.
• Socialization also helps manage their terrier instincts, like chasing small animals. Proper training and socialization can turn them into friendly, adaptable companions. Some Wheaten Terriers even work as therapy dogs due to their pleasant temperament.

Health and Lifespan

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Irish Terriers are generally healthy breeds. Both have similar lifespans but face different health concerns. Regular vet check-ups are key for both breeds.

Common Health Issues

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers may deal with protein-losing enteropathy and nephropathy. These conditions affect protein absorption and retention. Irish Terriers can be prone to hip dysplasia, which impacts joint health.
• Both breeds might experience eye problems. Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy can occur in either breed. Regular eye exams help catch these issues early.
• Skin allergies and ear infections are common in terriers. Proper grooming and ear cleaning can help prevent these problems.

Inherited Health Concerns

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers may inherit a tendency for inflammatory bowel disease. This can cause digestive upset and nutrient absorption issues.
• Irish Terriers can be prone to cystinuria, a condition affecting urine composition. This may lead to bladder stone formation.
• Both breeds can inherit hip dysplasia. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight help manage this condition.
• Genetic testing is available for both breeds. This can help identify potential inherited health risks before breeding.

Veterinary Care and Lifespan

Both breeds have a similar life expectancy of 12-14 years. Regular vet check-ups are crucial for maintaining their health throughout their lives.

Annual health screenings should include:

• Blood work
• Urinalysis
• Eye exams
• Hip and joint evaluations

Dental care is important for both breeds. Regular teeth cleaning helps prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. Vaccinations and parasite prevention are essential. Keeping these up to date protects against common canine diseases.

Living Environment and Adaptability

Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Irish Terriers have different needs when it comes to living spaces and family life. Their adaptability to various environments can affect how well they fit into a home.

Suitability for Apartment Living

• Irish Terriers can adapt to indoor living if given enough exercise and walks. They need regular activity to stay happy in smaller spaces. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are more flexible. They can do well in apartments or houses with yards.
• Both breeds need mental stimulation and physical activity. Without enough exercise, they may become restless or destructive. Daily walks and playtime are a must for both terriers in any living situation.

Compatibility with Family Life

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for being great family pets. They are friendly and get along well with children. These dogs often form strong bonds with their families.
• Irish Terriers can also be good family dogs. They are loyal and protective. However, they may be less patient with young children than Wheaten Terriers. Early training and socialization are important for both breeds to ensure they behave well around family members.
• Both types of terriers can be playful and energetic. This makes them fun companions for active families.

Adaptation to Weather and Temperatures

• Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have a soft, silky coat that provides some protection from cold weather. They can handle moderate temperatures well but may struggle in extreme heat or cold.
• Irish Terriers have a wiry coat that offers good protection in various weather conditions. They can tolerate cold better than many other breeds. However, like all dogs, they should not be left outside in extreme temperatures.
• Both breeds need shelter from harsh weather. They also require extra care during hot summer months to prevent overheating. Proper grooming helps both terriers maintain healthy coats for temperature regulation.