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Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier History
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The origins of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier are unknown, though it has certainly existed in the province of Munster in southwestern Ireland since at least the 18th century, and in all probability has existed there going much further back. In addition to the traditional terrier profession of rodent exterminator, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was also put to work as a herder of sheep and cattle, guardian, hunter of small game and even gun dog. The coat that the dog is so well known for today was of little utility in these pursuits, and is therefore the product of chance breeding rather than concerted effort on the part of owners.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was bred purely as a working terrier until well into the 20th century, and only received recognition as a breed in Ireland in 1937. The breed was introduced to the United States in 1946, and very slowly gained supporters. The American Kennel Club recognized the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier in 1973; since then, the breed has continued its gradual rise in homes and show rings, but still enjoys only modest popularity.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is believed to be one of the ancestors of the Kerry Blue Terrier. Legend tells that when the Spanish Armada sunk off the coast of Ireland, blue coated dogs fled the ships and swam to shore, where they met “soft, wheaten terriers.” The rest is history.
