| Country of origin: | Ireland |
| Registries: | AKC, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Versatile farm dog, companion |
| Size: | 16–20.5kg (35–45lb), 46–48cm (18–19in) |
| Longevity: | 12 to 14 years |
| Exercise: | Daily |
| Training: | Moderate to difficult |
| Grooming: | Difficult |
| Colors: | Wheaten |
A law of 1698 stated that in Ireland only the landed gentry could own a “hound, beagle, greyhound, or land spaniel”. The terrier or all-purpose working dog was the peasant’s lot, and into this category fell the versatile Wheaten, used for guarding, herding, droving, and hunting since at least the 18th century. It is among the most easy-going and obedient of the terrier breeds, less aggressive towards other dogs than most, although still with an inclination to chase small pets. Mildly prone to hip dysplasia, the breed is popular as a guard dog and companion today, particularly in North America. Bitches often produce litters of up to ten pups.