How To Care for Wheaton Terriers

Wheaton Terriers are named for their wheat-colored coat. Wheaton Terriers are a versatile, fun-loving breed. They are normally great with people, but require early socialization. They are a medium-size dog, with a long flowing coat, and graceful long strides. Here are some tips on how to care for this special breed:

1. The Wheaton has a thick long coat, which requires dedicated grooming. If you are not going to show your Wheaton Terrier, there are a couple of clips--the comfort or buddy clip--to keep your Wheaton looking good, and easy to care for. See Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America for more details on grooming your dog in the comfort or buddy clip. The coat should be trimmed every two to three months, since it grows continuously.
2. Brush your Wheaton Terrier at least once a day with a medium comb to remove any debris or tangles from the coat. You will not notice much shedding if the coat is combed regularly, and also periodically trimmed. This makes them a good breed for people with allergies.
   
3. If you take your Wheaton Terrier to be professionally groomed, make sure your groomer is familiar with the breed. Wheatons are an unusual breed, and you do not want your dog to come home looking like a poodle or schnauzer.
4. Trim or check your dog's nails regularly if you do not have him professionally groomed. You should also check and wipe the ears gently with a soft cloth to remove any dirt.
5. Early socialization is very important to your puppy. Only select puppies that have had human contact. Look for an outgoing, friendly puppy. It is also a good idea to enroll your new addition in puppy training classes as soon as possible. The training classes are a great tool for socializing your pet with other dogs, and people, too.
6. Your Wheaton Terrier will benefit from basic obedience training. It is always a good idea to at least train basic commands, such as stay, come and sit. These commands could save your pet's life in a dangerous situation. Wheatons are an intelligent breed, but they can be stubborn. It is a good idea to begin training at a young age.
7. Wheaton Terriers are a typical terrier breed; they like to dig. If left alone, they can become destructive. This breed loves to learn new tricks and games to exercise their brains. Many also love to play ball and Frisbee. You should include a daily time to exercise or work with your Wheaton Terrier to keep him from becoming bored and destructive.
8. A Wheaton can make a good pet in an apartment, or a house with a small yard, if he is walked or exercised daily.
   
   
9. You should take your pet to the veterinarian at least once a year for a complete checkup, shots update, and heartworm check. Consult with your veterinarian about any health or behavior concerns you have.
10. Feed your dog a quality dog food. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food choice for your individual pet.

Wheaton Terriers are a hard-to-find breed, and breeders are often selective about who they place their puppies with. You need to consider this when you are looking for a puppy. It is worth the extra effort to purchase your Wheaton from a reputable breeder who will ensure that you and your new puppy will be a good match.