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The identity of these Mira extroverted people, and what sets them apart from other terriers, is the silky, gently waving coat. It runs from light beige to shimmering gold, remembering the color of the ripening wheat. Topping at 19 tall and 40 pounds, there are Wheat Squares, a Terrier strong with a chow-a-boo hairdo and dashing goatee. The overall picture is of a hard-muscle but soft-coated working terrier or, as the breed describes, an iron fist in a velvet glove.
Ireland’s gifts to civilization include great literature, a powerful smooth whiskey, and three magnificent long-legged terriers: Wheat, Carey Blue and Irish. All share a common lineage and were born for similar purposes. As versatile farm dogs, Wheatens were expected to do any number of pastoral chores, such as rattling, guarding chicken coop, and even shepherds or bird-dogs. When the day went by they were confounding the Fireside fellows, a role they still cherish – even if the stove was replaced by TV.
The Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier is a medium-sized, hardy, well-balanced sporting terrier, square in outline. He is distinguished by his soft, silky, lightly warm wheat-colored waving coat and his characteristically stable disposition. Ethnicity requires restraint in both structure and presentation, and any exaggeration must be overcome. He should present the overall appearance of a vigilant and happy animal, beautiful, strong and well-coordinated.
The gestation period in lasts for 60-64 days The primary period of the reproductive cycle of the female is called Proestrus and goes on for around 9 days. During this time the females begin to draw in males. The subsequent part is the Estrus when the bitch is receptive to the male. It goes on for around 3 to 11 days. The third part is the Diestrus. Usually, it happens around day 14. In this period the bitch’s discharge changes for distinctive red and reaching its end. The vulva gets back to average, and she will no longer allow mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time span between heat periods ordinarily keeps going around a half year. The litter size ranges between 6 to 8 puppies at a time’
Wheaton’s soft, silky coat requires a fair amount of maintenance. The daily grooming session begins with a pin brush or a slicker brush to completely remove dirt and loose hair. It is then thoroughly combed with a metal comb with medium and fine teeth. All the mats received should be separated by brush, comb and fingers – never with scissors. Like all breeds, nails should be bitten regularly, as excessively long nails can be painful to the dog and cause problems with walking and running.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended for all dogs to ensure that they become well-adjusted, well-behaved companions. The soft-coated Wheaton Terrier is extremely smart and intentional, and often has its own agenda. This makes them difficult to train. It also provides another reason why obedience training should begin early, before bad habits are involved. A wheat requires frequent, firm discipline but is sensitive to harsh treatment. Wheat should be trained to be obedient without breaking their spirit.
Soft coated Wheaton Terrier has a moderate to high energy level which does not decrease even in old age. They need plenty of exercise every day. With a strong hunting drive, Wheatens will be urged to chase anything that moves from squirrels to cars, so the backyard or other play area should be safely closed, and the walk must always be on a leash. Wheat bonds for their owners, who should expect to participate in daily exercise sessions.
Soft-coated Wheaton Terriers should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared at home with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight levels. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Wheatens are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders examine their stock for health conditions such as protein-losing nephropathy, kidney disease; Protein-losing enteropathy, a term applied to many gastrointestinal conditions; Addison’s disease; And renal dysplasia. As with all breeds, wheat ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and teeth should be brushed frequently using toothpaste prepared for dogs.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: