Yes, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers make excellent family dogs due to their affectionate, playful, and intelligent temperament. They typically get along well with children and other pets when properly socialised and trained from a young age. They are lively, people-oriented dogs that strongly bond with their family members, making them loving and devoted companions.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have several challenges including high grooming needs, as their soft, wavy coat requires daily brushing and regular trimming to avoid matting. They are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, which can cause destructive behaviour. Behavioural tendencies include jumping up when greeting people, stubbornness during training, barking at strangers, and a high prey drive that may lead them to chase smaller animals. Additionally, they may face health issues such as protein-losing enteropathy, protein-losing nephropathy, and Addison’s disease.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers can be left alone for short periods if they have been properly trained and exercised beforehand. However, they do not tolerate long periods alone well due to their strong attachment to their family, and prolonged solitude may lead to separation anxiety and destructive behaviours. Mental stimulation and consistent training help manage these behaviours.
The main cons include the breed’s grooming demands which require frequent brushing, trimming, and bathing to maintain their coat. They are prone to separation anxiety and can become destructive if left alone too long. Their behavioural quirks include jumping up on people when excited and sometimes stubbornness during training. They also have a strong prey drive and potential health risks like protein-losing enteropathy, protein-losing nephropathy, and Addison’s disease. Additionally, they tend to roam if off-leash, so secure containment is essential.