Health Overview
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a healthy, sturdy and well-muscled dog that, given proper care and nourishment, will live a long, healthy life. The average Wheaten Terrier lifespan is 12 to 15 years with some living up to 17 years. However, it is important to know that all dog breeds are susceptible to certain diseases and the Wheaten is no exception. Veterinary research has identified two conditions that seem to have a higher than normal incidence in Wheatens: protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). Other conditions, like Addison’s disease and renal dysplasia (RD), have been found as well. This does not mean that all Wheaten Terriers will have these diseases. The health section will give you more information on these genetic diseases as well as other medical issues.
Health Concerns
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America maintains a watchful eye for potential genetic problems and is proactive in those instances when the general health and well-being of the breed is challenged.
If you are considering adding a Wheaten to your home, you should expect the breeder to provide you with the hip and eye clearances on the sire and dam and the PLN Variant Gene test results on the sire and dam or on the puppy. Visit the database to look up the sire and dam of the puppy you are considering at www.scwtdb.org. SCWTCA encourages all Wheaten Terrier owners to keep up to date with Wheaten health by visiting our site regularly. The breed's health and genetic database contains over 100,000 Wheatens including health data collected from sources worldwide.
- Protein-Losing Nephropathy (PLN)
- Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE), IBD, Gagging, Gulping
- Renal Dysplasia
- Addison’s Disease
- Diet & Nutrition
- Incontinence/Ectopic Ureter
Other Health Concerns:
