How Much Do Wheaten Terriers Shed? Facts, Grooming Tips & FAQ

Updated on Mar 18, 2024

Wheaten Terriers, or Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers, are popular for their charming appearance and friendly temperament. This medium-sized dog has a soft, silky coat that sets them apart from other terriers. However, many people worry about how much they shed before purchasing one. Fortunately, Wheaten Terriers shed less than many other terrier breeds, but keep reading to learn if that makes them easier to groom. We also answer other common questions to help you decide if this breed is right for your home.

The Wheaten Terrier Coat

Wheaten Terriers have a single-layer coat of soft, silky hair. There is no undercoat, which is a big part of why they shed less. Unlike breeds with a double coat, such as Huskies or German Shepherds, Wheaten Terriers don’t have an insulating underlayer that they shed seasonally. The downside is that they may be less tolerant to colder temperatures.

wheaten terrier lying on sofa — Image Credit: Joseph Hendrickson, Shutterstock

Minimal Daily Shedding

Wheaten Terriers typically experience minimal daily shedding. You may find a few loose hairs around your home, but it won’t be as noticeable as with high-shedding breeds, making them suitable for individuals with mild allergies or those who prefer a cleaner living space.

Seasonal Shedding

While Wheaten Terriers don’t shed as much seasonally as dogs with double coats, they may experience a slight increase in shedding during certain times of the year, though it will still be less than many other dogs.

Grooming

You can reduce the shedding in Wheaten Terriers with regular grooming. Brushing your Wheaten Terrier’s coat a few times a week can help remove loose hairs and prevent matting. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks can make maintaining their fur easier.

Factors That Influence a Wheaten Terrier’s Shedding

Genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in a dog’s shedding tendencies. Wheaten Terriers with parents that shed less are likelier to inherit the same low-shedding characteristics.

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier standing and looking directly at camera — Image Credit: bohemama, Shutterstock

Diet and Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining a healthy coat. Feeding your Wheaten Terrier a balanced diet with high-quality dog food that lists real meat like chicken or beef as the first ingredient and includes healthy omega fats can help reduce excessive shedding.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure can influence shedding.

Overall Health

A Wheaten Terrier’s overall health can impact shedding. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations can ensure that your dog remains healthy and experiences minimal shedding.

Tips for Managing Your Wheaten Terrier’s Shedding

Brush your Wheaten Terrier’s coat regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Use a slicker brush or a comb designed for their type of coat.
Regular baths can help keep your dog’s coat clean and reduce shedding. Use a dog-specific shampoo to maintain the natural oils in their skin, but don’t bathe them too frequently, or you can dry out their skin.
Consider using professional grooming services to trim and maintain their coat. Groomers can also offer de-shedding treatments, and they can help you maintain their nails.
Maintain a clean living environment to minimize the accumulation of loose hair. Regularly vacuum and use lint rollers on furniture and clothing.
If you or someone in your household has allergies, consider using air purifiers and allergy-friendly cleaning products to reduce allergens.

A Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier sitting in grassy ground and looking at camera — Image Credit: Wirestock Creators, Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Wheaten Terriers Hypoallergenic?

While Wheaten Terriers are considered a low-shedding breed, they are not entirely hypoallergenic (no dog is). People with allergies may still react to their dander and saliva.

Do Wheaten Terrier Puppies Shed Differently Than Adults?

Wheaten Terrier puppies may have a different shedding pattern than adults. Shedding can change as they grow, so adjusting your grooming routine is important.

Are There Any Home Remedies to Reduce Shedding in Wheaten Terriers?

While regular grooming and a healthy diet are the most effective methods of reducing shedding, you can also try adding omega-3 fatty acids to their diet, as these may promote a healthier coat.

Summary

Wheaten Terriers shed less than many other dog breeds, partly because they only have a single-layer coat and lack the dense undercoat that many other dogs have, which produces much of the fur that you find around the home. You can reduce shedding even further with regular grooming, feeding your pet a healthy diet, keeping your home clean, and scheduling regular veterinary visits to ensure that your pet stays healthy.

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Featured Image Credit: Audrius Vizbaras, Pixabay