The 60-second version of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home — written for Australian owners.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Weight | 14–18 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Energy | High — exuberant into old age |
| Coat | Soft, silky, wheaten; single coat |
| Grooming | Daily brushing or regular clipping |
| Shedding | Low |
| Good with kids | Wonderful — playful and sturdy |
| Puppy price (AU) | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Insurance (AU) | ~$50–$85/month |
Living with a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier in Australia
The Wheaten is the terrier for people who find other terriers a bit much — bred as an Irish farm all-rounder, they kept the bounce and lost most of the sharpness. The famous "Wheaten greeting" (a full-body jumping hug) is charming at 10 weeks and a training project at 18 kilos. Their silky single coat barely sheds, suiting allergy-aware Australian homes, but mats fast without regular brushing or clipping.
Health watch-outs
Mostly robust, with two breed-specific conditions:
- Protein-losing nephropathy and enteropathy (PLN/PLE) — kidney and gut conditions screened by annual blood and urine tests.
- Hip dysplasia — ask for scores.
- Skin allergies — seen in the breed; usually manageable.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $2,000–$3,500 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $50–$85/month — see our pet insurance cost guide for what shapes premiums.
- Annual screening bloods are worth budgeting for — early detection genuinely changes outcomes in this breed.
Is a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Families wanting a playful, non-shedding medium dog
- Terrier lovers after a softer temperament
- Active households with time for grooming and exercise
Think twice if… ⚠️
- The jumping greeting needs early training
- That beautiful coat is high-maintenance
Keep exploring
🍖 Best food: See our dog food picks — chosen for Australian conditions and budgets
🛡️ Insurance: What pet insurance costs in Australia — breed-by-breed premium guidance