Golden Retriever vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Medium
Golden RetrieverLarge
A friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat.
Weight: 65–75 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Soft Coated Wheaten TerrierMedium
A happy, steady, self-confident Irish farm dog with a wheat-colored silky coat — the friendliest terrier.
Weight: 35–40 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 35–40 lbs for the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
- • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier sheds less.
- • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Large | Medium |
Origin | Scotland | Ireland |
Height (male) | 23–24" | 18–19" |
Height (female) | 21.5–22.5" | 17–18" |
Weight (male) | 65–75 lbs | 35–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 55–65 lbs | 30–35 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.
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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Golden Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Cancer
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Skin conditions
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Renal dysplasia
- • Protein-losing diseases
- • Addison's disease