When deciding between soft-coated wheaten terriers and border terriers, it is important to consider the strengths and weaknesses of each breed. Soft-coated wheaten terriers are intelligent and easily trained, making them ideal companions for families with children.
Appearance
Soft-coated wheaten terriers and border terriers share some commonalities in their appearance, but there are also some noticeable differences. Both dog breeds have a coat of soft, dense fur that can vary in color from light wheaten to dark brown.
They also both have pointed ears and long, muscular bodies. However, the Soft-coated wheaten terrier is a larger breed, with an adult weight ranging from 30 to 40 pounds. Border terriers are smaller, typically weighing between 11 and 15 pounds.
Soft-coated wheaten terriers also have a longer head and muzzle, while border terriers have a more compact face. When it comes to grooming, both breeds require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
However, the Soft-coated wheaten terrier’s coat is also prone to shedding, so daily brushing is often necessary to keep the house clean. Border terriers are less likely to shed, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
Maintenance And Health
They are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing and bathing. However, soft-coated wheaten terriers are prone to separation anxiety and may become anxious or destructive when left alone.
Border terriers are also intelligent and easily trained, but they are less likely to suffer from separation anxiety. They are an active breed, however, and require daily exercise. Border terriers are also more prone to shed than soft-coated wheaten terriers.
Health Problems And Life Expectancy
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are prone to a condition called protein-losing nephropathy, which can cause kidney damage. They are also at risk for kidney stones and bladder infections.
Border Terriers, on the other hand, are more likely to suffer from renal dysplasia, a condition that affects the development of the kidneys. They are also prone to joint problems such as hip dysplasia and luxating patellas.
In general, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers tend to live longer than Border Terriers, with an average lifespan of 12-14 years compared to 10-12 years for Border Terriers. However, both breeds of dogs can enjoy many happy and healthy years with proper care.
Training
When it comes to training, for example, each breed has its own unique set of needs and challenges. Soft-coated wheaten terriers are intelligent dogs that learn quickly. However, they can also be stubborn and independent-minded, which can make training them a challenge.
Border terriers, on the other hand, are eager to please and generally easy to train. However, they can be excitable and prone to barking, which may not be ideal in all situations.
When choosing a breed of dog, it is important to consider what your specific needs and goals are for training. Soft-coated wheaten terriers and border terriers are both great breeds of dogs, but each has its strengths and weaknesses when it comes to training.
Temperament Of The Two Breeds
Both breeds are intelligent, independent, and playful. They are also known for being good with children and friendly behavior with other pets.
However, there are some important differences between these two breeds. Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers are generally more outgoing and easygoing than Border Terriers. They are also less likely to bark excessively.
Border Terriers, on the other hand, tend to be more reserved around strangers and more likely to bark when they feel threatened. They also require more exercise than Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers and are not as tolerant of hot weather.
Both Breeds Around Kids
Soft-coated wheaten terriers are known for their gentle dispositions and loving nature. They are typically good with children and other pets, and they thrive on attention and affection.
Border terriers, on the other hand, are more independent and energetic. They are also very intelligent and quick learners, making them easy to train. However, they can be more willful than soft-coated wheaten terriers, and they may not be as tolerant of kids or other animals in the home.
Other Factors
When deciding between these two breeds, it is important to consider your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a dog. If you want a laid-back companion who will happily lounge around the house all day, a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier may be the better choice.
Cost Comparison
One of the most significant differences is their cost. Soft-coated wheaten terriers are typically more expensive than border terriers.
This is because they are a larger breed of dog, and they require more food and medical care. They also tend to live shorter lives than border terriers, which contributes to their higher cost.
However, soft-coated wheaten terriers are also known for being friendly and affectionate dogs, which may make them worth the extra expense.
What is the origin and history of Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers?
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is an ancient breed of dog that originated in Ireland, with evidence suggesting they have been around since the 1700s. Though it is not known for certain, some historians believe that this breed was developed from a now-extinct Irish terrier type called the “Kerry Beagle”.
It is believed that this breed’s traits were bred into other varieties such as the Kerry Blue, Irish Red and White Setter, and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
As time went on, their presence began to spread throughout Ireland and eventually across Europe. By the early 19th century, the popularity of Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers had grown significantly in both rural and urban areas of Ireland.
They were kept by many families as working dogs, helping out with tasks such as herding livestock and protecting the homestead from predators.
What is the origin and history of Border Terriers?
Border Terriers are an active and lively breed of dog that has been around since the 18th century. They are believed to be descended from a now-extinct terrier type known as the “Old English Broken-Haired Terrier”, which was bred in northern parts of England and Scotland, near the border between the two countries.
Their small size, agility, and affinity for hunting made them ideal companions for hunters seeking foxes and other small game animals. As their popularity grew, Border Terriers began to spread across England, becoming especially popular among farmers in rural areas who used them for pest control.
They are still used for hunting and pest control, but their intelligence and loving personalities have made them especially popular as family pets. These cheeky pups make great companions for those looking for an active and fun-loving companion that isn’t too big to cuddle up with on the couch!
How do Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Border Terriers differ in terms of their hunting and working abilities?
Both Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Border Terriers are highly capable working dogs, but there are some key differences between the two breeds when it comes to hunting and working abilities. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have a history of being used as herding dogs, guard dogs, and even companions for show dog enthusiasts.
They excel at tasks that require intelligence, obedience, and an affable temperament. When compared to Border Terriers, they may not be quite as adept at tracking prey or tackling dense underbrush during a hunt; however, they still possess an instinct for such activities and will happily take part in them if given the opportunity.
Border Terriers were originally bred with hunting foxes in mind. Their compact size and agile nature make them predisposed to this type of work. When compared to Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, they have a higher energy level which allows them to stay focused on the task at hand and track prey more efficiently.
As well as being highly adept hunters, Border Terriers are also great watchdogs, making them ideal candidates for pest control duties.
How much exercise does a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier need compared to a Border Terrier?
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Border Terriers have different exercise needs. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers require moderate amounts of daily exercise as they are considered to be quite active dogs.
They thrive with regular walks and outings, but should not be overly exerted as this can lead to exhaustion or injury. A general rule of thumb is that these pups need at least 30 minutes of activity a day to stay healthy and happy.
Border Terriers, on the other hand, are more energetic than Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and require an even higher amount of daily physical activity. These terriers were bred for hunting small game so they tend to enjoy activities such as running and chasing prey over long distances.
As such, it is recommended that these pups get at least an hour of exercise each day to stay healthy and content.
Which breed is more prone to separation anxiety: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers or Border Terriers?
Since they are very social animals, both breeds may become stressed or anxious if they feel their owners have abandoned them. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers may suffer from more severe cases of separation anxiety due to their intense loyalty and attachment to their owners.
They thrive on companionship and can experience serious distress when separated from the person or people that they love most. The best way to combat this is by ensuring that your pup has plenty of activities to keep them occupied while you’re away, such as toys and puzzles.
Border Terriers are also susceptible to feelings of loneliness but are generally less prone to anxiety than Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers. These dogs can be trained to cope with being alone for short periods and may not suffer from the same levels of distress as their counterparts.
It is important to remember that all breeds require attention, exercise, and mental stimulation to prevent separation anxiety from occurring.
Which breed is better suited for families with young children: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers or Border Terriers?
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Border Terriers do have different traits that may make one better suited than the other. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers tend to be very affectionate and gentle with children of all ages.
Their loving temperaments make them excellent playmates for toddlers and kids alike, as they will happily follow them around and keep them entertained without being overly energetic. They also possess a good amount of intelligence which enables them to learn quickly and obey commands from their owners.
As long as they receive plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation, these pups can become wonderful family companions. Border Terriers are also known to be friendly and affectionate with children.
Border Terriers also have a strong prey drive, so it is important to ensure that your pup receives adequate training to ensure good manners around small animals and young children alike. In conclusion, both Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and Border Terriers are great breeds for families with young children.
It comes down to individual preference as each breed has its unique traits that may or may not suit different households.
| Characteristic | Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Breed Size | Medium to Large | Small |
| Height | 17-19 inches | 11-16 inches |
| Weight | 30-45 pounds | 11-15 pounds |
| Coat Type | Soft, silky, wavy | Short, wiry |
| Coat Color | Wheaten | Various shades of brown, black, and brindle |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Playful, affectionate, and intelligent | Energetic, loyal, and intelligent |
| Grooming Needs | High | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | High |
| Good with Children | Yes (with socialization) | Yes (with socialization) |
| Good with Other Pets | Yes (with socialization) | Yes (with socialization) |
Conclusion
Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers are generally larger dogs, with males weighing in at around 30 pounds and females averaging about 27 pounds. Border Terriers are typically smaller dogs, with males averaging around 23 pounds and females typically weighing in at around 21 pounds.
Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers also have a softer, silkier coat of fur, while Border Terriers have a more coarse, wiry coat. Another significant difference is that Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers are considered to be non-shedding dogs, while Border Terriers do shed their fur. As a result, Soft-coated Wheaten Terriers may be a better choice for people who are allergic to dog fur or who prefer not to deal with the mess of shedding.
How To Choose
Ultimately, the best breed of dog for you will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle. But if you’re looking for a loyal and lovable companion, either a Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier or a Border Terrier would make an excellent choice.
However, if you are an active individual who loves spending time outdoors, a Border Terrier may be a better fit. Ultimately, the best way to choose the right breed is to meet several dogs of both breeds and see which one you connect with the most.
Overall, both breeds make excellent companions, but the soft-coated wheaten terrier may be a better choice for families with young children while the border terrier may be a better choice for active adults or families with other dogs.
