Let me share a secret with you, which you might not know – Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier dogs were initially bred and used in Ireland as farm dogs. That’s right! Their stout-heartedness and versatility made them perfect for tasks like herding sheep, hunting vermin, and even guarding homes. Now, look at your Wheaten Terrier, lying peacefully beside you, probably snoring – a far stretch from the industrious dog it was bred to be, right?
Learning about where they came from should make you appreciate your dog’s instincts and behaviors more. It also gives us a good starting point as we dive into examining whether Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are easy to train.
As a professional dog trainer and an owner of a feisty Wheaten named Jasper, my experience should offer a comprehensive answer to that particular question. Let’s just say that training a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier isn’t for the faint-hearted.
First, let’s look at their temperament. Wheatens are known for their reliability, friendliness, and exuberant nature. They’re good-natured dogs, full of energy and zest for life, extremely intelligent, and absolutely devoted to their family (that’s you!). All these traits make them quite delightful.
But does this translate to easy training? Not exactly. Training a Wheaten can be a bit taxing due to their stubborn and independent streak. But don’t let this discourage you! With early socialization, continuous reinforcement, and patience, Wheatens can turn like putty in your hands.
Let’s tackle how you can go about training your Wheaten Terrier.
Understand their Nature: To connect effectively with your Wheaten, embrace their independent nature rather than fighting it. While they can be a bit stubborn, they are also very eager to please.
Early Socialization: Start the process early. Expose your pup to different environments, people, and other animals. This will help them adjust and respond appropriately to various situations.
Positive Reinforcement: Dogs react well to praise. So, when your Wheaten follows your command or behaves well, lavish them with love and treats. This would make them understand that good behavior equals rewards.
Consistent Training: Dogs thrive on routine. Establish a training schedule and stick to it. Consistent practice of commands and behaviors instills habits, making them easier to recall in the future.
Patience: Wheaten Terriers can test your patience during training sessions due to their independent streak. It’s essential to stay calm, firm, and patient during these periods, reminding yourself that persistence pays off in the end.
Can training your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier be challenging? Yes. But with my list of handy tips, patience, and lots of love, you’ll see progress before you know it. Remember, the goal is not only to train your dog but to strengthen your bond and enjoy the journey together. In the end, training results in a well-behaved dog that can cohabit well with humans and other animals, truly earning the title of “man’s best friend.
