Irish Terrier vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Terrier · Medium vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the larger breed at 35–40 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish TerrierSoft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
IrelandIreland
Height (male)
18"18–19"
Height (female)
18"17–18"
Weight (male)
27 lbs35–40 lbs
Weight (female)
25 lbs30–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.

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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Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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