Anatolian Shepherd vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 35–40 lbs for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
  • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier sheds less.
  • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdSoft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
TurkeyIreland
Height (male)
29"18–19"
Height (female)
27"17–18"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs35–40 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs30–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

About the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy, steady, self-confident Irish farm dog with a wheat-colored silky coat — the friendliest terrier. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 35–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as happy, steady, self-confident.

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Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Renal dysplasia
  • Protein-losing diseases
  • Addison's disease