Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Border Collie - Breed ComparisonBoth Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Border Collie are originated from United Kingdom. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier may grow 6 cm / 2 inches shorter than Border Collie. Both Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Border Collie are of same weight. Both Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Border Collie has almost same life span. Both Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Border Collie has same litter size. Both Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and Border Collie requires Moderate maintenance.

History

soft coated wheaten terrier - historyThis wheaten colored terrier hails from Ireland. Although the Wheaten has been around for a long time, it was in 1937 that he was recognized as a breed in Ireland.

The British Kennel Club also recognized the Wheaten and the dog was also exported to the United States. Serious interest started being shown for the Terrier in the 1970s. It was in 1973 that they were recognised by the American Kennel Club.

border collie - historyThe Border Collie originated in Northumberland and was used to herd livestock. He is particularly well known for his intense stare in controlling the sheep in his care. The name Border Collier wasn’t used until 1915. This was so that the dog could be registered as a separate breed together with other Collie breeds already registered.

Sheepdog trials have been held since 1873. The very name of this dog gives you an inkling as to his heritage, as the word ‘Collie’ refers to sheepdogs and comes from Scottish dialect. Today the Border Collie is recognized as the ultimate sheep-herding dog, with his amazing intelligence and herding skills. The Border Collie was recognized by the American Kennel Club in October 1995.

Description

soft coated wheaten terrier puppy - descriptionThe Wheaten is a medium sized dog standing at between 43 and 50cm and weighing between 13 and 20kg both male and female. The coat of the dog is soft, silky and wavy to even curly and is a wheaten to ginger color.

The coat of the puppy is dark but as he grows up it changes into the wheaten color although the ears may be a dark brown color. Pet owners like that the Wheaten is a very low shedding dog.

Temperament:

Playful, social and friendly, the Wheaten has always been put to good use on the farm. These days he is pet and companion. He is energetic and playful so children love having him around.

He is slightly more hyper and energetic than other Terrier breeds so will require a good dose of exercise.

He is smart and strong willed, and training and socialization turns him into an amicable pet to have around, so much so that he is sought after as a therapy-dog.

They’re easy-going dogs with no aggression issues but they still make great watch dogs and want to do whatever it takes to look after- and protect their human family.

border collie puppy - descriptionUtterly responsive, intelligent, alert and keen, the medium sized border collie loves nothing more than to be actively working. He requires both mental and physical stimulation. The ideal height for this very intelligent dog is 46 – 53cm and they weigh in at about 14 – 22kg.

People who have been to sheepdog trials can only marvel a this dog and his intense stare, moving the sheep to precisely where his master wants them. The dog has a moderately long and smooth coat with a dense topcoat, with soft weather resistant undercoat. Most common color is black and white but other colors such as chocolate and white, liver and white or blue merle are also seen.

There are a few Border Collies which have a single-colour coat. He has a long feathery tail and the ears can be either erect, semi-erect and in some instances, even dropped. He has brown eyes but sometimes with the Merle Border Collie you can get one eye or part of the eye which is blue.

Border Collies are playful, energetic dogs who just love living in homes where the family involves him in all their activities. Because he is so intelligent, he is demanding of his human family, wanting them to take notice of him and provide him with lots of clever games and sports. If he is left without involvement, he can become frustrated and destructive. That is why it is so important to choose your pet carefully.

These highly energetic dogs require owners who recognize this need and are prepared to provide him with lots of games, walks and runs.

Characteristics

soft coated wheaten terrier dog - characteristicsThe Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has always made an excellent farm dog, but today he is more suited as pet and companion.

He adapts easily to life in the city or the countryside. Wherever he is, he will need his exercise. He also longs to be an active part of his human family, and then he’s happy, lively, social and friendly and is a great playmate for children.

He also gets on well with other dogs and will make you a fantastic family pet.

border collie dog - characteristicsThe Border Collie is such an awesome working dog breed, being of tremendous help to farmers. With their endless energy and stamina, given the chance he would want to be working all day. This medium sized dog will need a family where they are hard working and active just like him. He makes a wonderful pet with the right owners and if everyone is active in the family, he becomes your devoted soulmate.

He is sensitive to what his owner wants and that is also because he is highly intelligent. Shower your wonderful pet with lots of love, give him lots of attention and plenty of activities, and you’ll have an awesome friend for life.

Health Problems

soft coated wheaten terrier puppies - health problemsWhen you bring a Wheaten Terrier into your home, you’re not likely to have too many vet fees as he tends to be a healthy dog breed, being able to reach 13, 14 or 15 years of age with good care.

Look out for a dog ailment known as Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). This is a condition where the dog isn’t able to properly absorb protein in the digestive tract, so that it is passed in their stools.

It can be fatal, but if caught early, some dietary changes can keep it under control.

Also, look out for inflammatory bowel disease. This disease occurs when the stomach of the dog has a large number of inflammatory cells which can change the lining of the digestive tract, preventing the normal absorption of food.

border collie puppies - health problemsIf your Border Collie is healthy, he can live to be 14 years of age and longer. There are one or two dog ailments that are more common in this breed, so it is wise to be aware of what can go wrong, although with good care it is highly unlikely.

Epilepsy

Primary epilepsy, known as idiopathic epilepsy can be seen in your dog before the age of 5 years, and although a genetic link in border collies has not yet been identified, idiopathic epilepsy is more prevalent in some breeds. Seizures in your dog are caused by electrical disturbances in the brain and treatment may be for life. While epilepsy in dogs can’t be cured, the condition can be managed with medication recommended by your vet and then he can lead a healthy life.

Hip Dysplasia

Collies are prone to developing hip dysplasia, which is an inherited condition with abnormal formation of the hip socket. For your pet it can mean lameness as well as painful arthritis. You’ll see your collie dog battling to rise after lying down. It is actually common in lots of dog breeds, but more so in larger breeds.

Collie eye anomaly

This is an inherited problem that can lead to your dog going blind. About 70 to 97% of collies in the UK and the United States are affected. Your veterinarian will examine your dog to determine the extent of the defect. It is common in the first year of a dog and can be be prevented if caught early.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

soft coated wheaten terrier dogs - caringBrush your pet’s silky coat twice a week. Such a silky coat can get all tangled and matted. If you prefer, many people opt to rather have the Wheaten’s coat professionally clipped as then it is easier to handle. They like to have the hair clipped that hangs over the dog’s eyes.

Other grooming tasks require you to check inside his ears for redness which could indicate an infection. Trim his nails and check him over for ticks and fleas.

Training:

Have your Wheatie trained and socialized as he is a stubborn dog breed and you want him to be well mannered and obedient.

Exercise:

Terriers like this are energetic dogs and he is going to need exercise every day. A walk for a dog is always a welcome experience as it gives him the opportunity to sniff around and pick up new smells. Play ball- or frisbee games with him as this can tire him out a bit.

Veterinary Care:

If your dog shows signs of illness, get him to the vet. He is such a feisty dog that it can be unbearable to see him out of sorts.

Diet:

Terriers are energetic dogs so if you feed your dog one of the commercial dog foods, make sure the label indicates what food it is. This is because the foods are manufactured according to the type of dog it is, its age, size and energy levels.

Always try and go for the high quality foods which don’t have all those unhealthy ingredients in them. Try to include some home-made food – nothing exotic and spicy – just plain, wholesome food that won’t upset his stomach.

Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots is super tasty and nutritious. You can chop it up and add it to your pet’s kibble twice a week.

Try and include a little bit of raw meat to his diet occasionally as this can go towards ensuring he doesn’t get skin diseases. Always ensure he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water available.

Exercise

border collie dogs - caringThis is a dog that will need plenty of exercise and attention. He won’t do well cooped up in a tiny home. He’ll want lots of place to run and play and with his owners involved in his activities. It is unfair of any dog owner to buy a dog like this and then leave him so that he becomes distressed from being ignored.

Training

Do your dog a favor and see that he is socialized as a puppy and trained as he grows older. Once he has been trained, he becomes a super pet, obedient, sensitive and willing to please.

Grooming

Border collies shed throughout the year, and with Summer his shedding becomes a bit more. He will require a good brushing at least twice a week to get rid of loose hairs and to ensure that the long hair doesn’t become tangled. He isn’t considered hypoallergenic and is regarded as a safe pet to have for people with allergies.

Feeding

This high energy working dog will require top quality food from the top brands if you intend feeding him from commercially produced dog food. He will certainly need raw meat added to this food from time to time to ensure you stave off skin problems such as rashes. You can also add in rice, meat and vegetables for variety to ensure his is getting in all the minerals and vitamins he needs. Fresh, cool water should always be available to him day and night.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Working dog
Origin:
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Height Male:
43 - 50 cm
16 - 20 inches
48 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
Height Female:
43 - 50 cm
16 - 20 inches
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
13 - 20 kg
28 - 45 pounds
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
13 - 20 kg
28 - 45 pounds
12 - 20 kg
26 - 45 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
10 - 17 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 8
4 - 8
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Wheaten, Wheatie
Scotch Sheep Dog, Sheepdog
Colors Available:
tan, gingerish, Fawn, wheaten
White and Black, Chocolate and White, Liver and White or Blue Merle
Coat:
Soft, silky, wavy to curly
Moderately long and smooth
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  4. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Fox Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Bull and Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Irish Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  10. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Kerry Blue Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  12. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Lakeland Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Jagdterrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Blue Paul Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Indian Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Irish Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Japanese Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Brazilian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Old English Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Scoland Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Skye Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Welsh Terrier vs Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Border Collie vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Border Collie vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  28. Border Collie vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  29. Border Collie vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  30. Border Collie vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  31. Border Collie vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  32. Border Collie vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  33. Sakhalin Husky vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  34. Catahoula Leopard vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  35. German Pinscher vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  36. Portuguese Water Dog vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  37. Puli vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  38. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  39. German Spaniel vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  40. Canadian Eskimo Dog vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  41. McNab vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  42. Porcelaine vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  43. Finnish Lapphund vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  44. Griffon Nivernais vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  45. Hokkaido vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  46. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  47. Pumi vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  48. Griffon Fauve de Bretagne vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  49. Istrian Sheepdog vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  50. Jamthund vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds