06/05/2026
⭐️BREED OF THE WEEK⭐️
This is Rocco, a 9 year old Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier💛
Though not recognized by AKC until 1973, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is one of Irelands oldest native breeds. Originally developed as an all purpose farm dogs for working class families, they became known as “poor man’s wolfhound”. Ireland had restrictions on certain hunting breeds that were reserved for nobility, so Wheatens were the perfect dog for common farmers. They herded sheep and cattle, hunted rats, badgers, foxes and were excellent watchdogs. Now, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are incredibly loyal family dogs and are often used as therapy/ emotional support dogs. This breed is intelligent, social, goofy, and tend to bond deeply with their owners 🫂
Soft coated Wheaten Terriers require regular grooming/ full haircut every 4-10 week to keep them feeling their best. Their soft coats are prone to matting so regular brushing is a must for their longer coats. In show, Wheatens are left with a tuft of hair between the eyes called the “fall” which is a nod to their historical purpose as farm dogs. This hair protected their eyes from brush, dirt, and rain but now, most pet Wheatens rock a tidier version of this look, just like Rocco!🫧
Fun fact!
A lot of Wheatens puppies are born dark brown, red, or grayish and gradually lighten over time to the classic wheaten color