Raising a Wheaten

Raising a Wheaten terrier is both a pleasure and a challenge. It's a pleasure because this breed is generally good with people and other dogs. Unlike some terriers, Wheatens tend to like other dogs and are often happy in the company of other pets, even cats. They are friendly toward children, and, with care on the part of the adult owners, a Wheaten will love the children in the household. Wheatens are non-shedding which is a plus for those trying to keep household allergens at bay.

Raising a Wheaten terrier is a challenge to a dog owner without sufficient time to care for it. Wheaten terriers need regular grooming. They should be brushed daily to prevent hair matting. Having them trimmed four to six times a year is also important.

Housing your Wheaten indoors is a challenge to those who want a more outdoorsy breed. Wheatens are good apartment or house dogs and don't need to spend extended time outdoors. To keep them healthy, they should not be housed outdoors or left outdoors for an extended period of time, especially in the summer.

Since the dog needs to be indoors primarily, the owner must keep them exercised. Wheaten terriers need play time in a fenced area and walks with their owners. If these dogs, especially puppies, don't get enough playtime, the result is a bored puppy that will chew on anything and everything.

As puppies, Wheatens have an instinctive need to chew. Plenty of chew toys will be destroyed as they tear their way through puppy hood. Fortunately Wheatens also have an instinctive need to fetch and many will quickly take to playing fetch with a tennis ball. Just be sure to get it back before they chew it up.

Their friskiness as puppies can last well into their second year of life. As they become adult dogs, however, raising a Wheaten terrier becomes an easier routine of grooming, walks and playtime. Most Wheaten terriers become their owner's shadow. They will be your best friend, happy to follow you through the house, sit at your feet or by your side.

To find out more about taking care of your Wheaten, follow the links to the left.