INFORMATION | sidka

About the Breed

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Originally from Ireland, this versatile dog was used on farms for pest control, hunting, herding and as a watchdog against intruders.

Appearance

This mid-size hunting terrier has a sturdy, well-balanced appearance, and is covered with an abundant wheaten-coloured soft, silky and wavy coat. All these qualities must be moderately present, and any prominent feature is discouraged.

The soft-coated Wheaten terrier has a square profile, and its general appearance is that of a robust, happy and well coordinated dog, aware of its surroundings and showing soft dignity as well as self-confidence.

Temperament

This dog is even-tempered, spirited and inquisitive. Affectionate and loyal, alert and smart, it remains defensive, but not aggressive. This dog won't start a fight, but will stand its ground. The breed is much less aggressive than what is seemingly sought-for in other terriers.

Height and Weight

Male height is 18 to 19 in. (47-49 cm), ideally 18 in. (47 cm); for females, 17-18 in. (44-47 cm), ideally 17 in (44 cm). The ideal weight for a male is 35-40 lb (16-18 kg); for females, 30-35 lb (14-16 kg). Any deviation from these ideal features is penalized proportionally with the deviation's severity.

Coat and colour

The coat is abundant, simple, soft, silky and lightly waved, and should look that way when the dog is standing. When walking, the coat should look free-floating. The coat should not be wooly, rough, straight nor curly, and should be free of mats. The colour can be any shade from pale gold to warm honey. There may be occasional red, white or black top hair, but the general colour should clearly be wheaten with no trace of other colours, except for the ears and muzzle, where shades of blue-gray may be present. Pups less than a year old can be darker and sport black-tipped hair. Adolescents under two years of age can be very pale, but never white or gray, except for the ears and muzzle. Pups and adolescents don't usually have the wavy coat. Colour and texture are not definitive before the age of three, so a greater colour latitude is allowed for younger animals. Nonetheless, the darker, softer coat of youngsters should not be preferred to the lighter, slightly rougher adult coat. For show purposes, grooming must tend towards a sharp and square terrier trim. Excessive grooming should be discouraged and severely penalized.

Head

Well-balanced and moderately elongated, with a skull and chamfer of equal length and well proportioned to the body. The skull is flat and not too wide, with thin cheeks and a moderate stop. The muzzle is square, powerful and strong, but not pointy. The nose is black and quite large for a dog this size. Lips are tight and black. Teeth are strong and white, with scissor or regular bite - preferrably scissor. The eyes are dark hazel or brown, medium-sized and well-protected by protruding brow bones. Hair must cover the eyes. Ears are small to mid-size, folded at the skull near the cheek bones, and pointing down rather than towards the eyes.

Neck

Medium in length and well attached to the shoulders, the neck joins smoothly to the back. Front limbs must have a good forward reach. Shoulders are slanted backward, for a neat and gracious look. The forearm must be equal in length to the shoulder plate, and elbows must rest well under the body. Front limbs are straight from every angle, with sturdy bones and muscles. Talons must be eliminated. Feet are round and compact, with deep pads. Dark nails are preferrable, but tortoise shell is acceptable; the pads are always black.

Body

The body is compact, with a deep, but not rounded chest and tapered ribs. ed. The back is strong and relatively short. The top line is horizontal.

Rear limbs

Soft-coated Wheaten terriers must have good impulse from their rear limbs, therefore the back end is powerful and muscular. Limbs should be well-developed, with well-flexed stifles that do not turn outwards nor inwards. Hocks are lowered and parallel from a rear view. Posterior talons should be eliminated. Dark nails are preferred, but tortoise shell is acceptable.

Tail

The tail is shortened to about two-thirds of its original length. It is planted high and carried joyfully, but never carried over the back. A non-shortened tail is allowed.

Carry

The gait is clear, graceful and lively, with good forward stride and strong rear impulse that create a straight motion from front to rear.

Faults

The description above is that of an ideal animal. Any deviation to the above is penalized proportionally to the severity of the deviation, while taking into account the original purpose of the breed.