Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Pet Insurance | Savvy

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Find out all about the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

Written by , updated on October 3rd, 2023

Price range

$850 – $1,200

Height

43–51cm

Weight

14–18kg

Personality

Affectionate, spirited, intelligent

Coat length

Medium

Exercise needs

Moderate to high

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

12–15 years

Overview

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, often simply known as the Wheaten Terrier, traces its roots back to Ireland where it was bred as an all-purpose farm dog. The breed’s history dates back over two centuries, and it was cherished for its versatility in tasks such as herding, hunting vermin and guarding property. Its name is derived from its characteristic soft, silky and wavy coat, which comes in a distinctive wheaten colour.

Wheaten Terriers were first introduced to Australia in the 1970s and have since become popular companion dogs They are known for their exuberant and lively disposition, making them excellent companions for people and pets alike. For active families seeking an affectionate, energetic and intelligent dog, the Wheaten Terrier can make a wonderful addition to their home.

Common diseases and conditions of Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers

Protein-losing nephropathy (PLN): this is a kidney disease that affects the ability of the kidneys to retain protein. It can lead to symptoms like swelling, lethargy and changes in urine production.
Hip dysplasia: this is a common skeletal condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly. It can lead to arthritis and pain.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): this is a chronic condition that affects the digestive tract, causing symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Renal dysplasia: this is a congenital disorder where the kidneys don't develop properly. It can lead to kidney failure.
Addison’s disease: also known as hypoadrenocorticism, this is a hormonal disorder where the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones. It can cause symptoms like weakness, vomiting and weight loss.

Breed-specific issues:

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers can be sensitive to noise and sudden movements, which can lead to anxiety and barking. They also require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Wheaten Terriers can be stubborn and independent, so patience and consistency are key when training them. Positive reinforcement methods are the most effective way to train them.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, including the following:

Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.
Type of insurance you choose: there are three basic types of pet insurance for dogs available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most.
The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.
Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits that apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.
Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover.
Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, while others do.
Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Accident-only

This is the most basic type of pet insurance, covering costs for accidental injuries such as car accidents, poisoning, burns, fractures, snake and spider bites, but not illnesses and other conditions.

Accident and illness

This type of insurance provides cover for accidental injuries as well as illnesses like cancer, gastrointestinal problems and eye, ear and skin conditions, but not routine care for your pet.

Comprehensive

This offers the highest level of protection, covering accident and illness and potentially routine care such as vaccinations, dental care, worm and flea treatments and microchipping.

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Common questions about Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers

How much exercise does a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier need?

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are an active breed that thrives on regular exercise. They typically require at least 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity per day. This can include walks, playtime in a secure yard and interactive games. Mental stimulation is also important, so puzzle toys and obedience training can be great ways to keep them engaged.

How much grooming does a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier need?

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier has a beautiful, silky coat that requires regular grooming. Ideally, they should be brushed every day to prevent tangles and mats. Additionally, they will need a professional grooming session every 6 to 8 weeks for a trim and tidy. Regular ear cleaning, tooth brushing and nail trimming should also be part of their grooming routine.

Are Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers good with children?

Yes – Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, especially towards children. They are patient and tolerant, making them excellent companions for families. However, as with any dog breed, it's important to teach children how to interact with dogs respectfully and supervise their interactions to ensure everyone is comfortable and safe.

Are Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers good for first-time dog owners?

Yes – Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers can be a good fit for first-time dog owners who are willing to invest time in training and grooming. They are intelligent and eager to please, which can make training a rewarding experience. However, their grooming needs can be quite demanding, so prospective owners should be prepared to commit to regular coat care. Additionally, early socialisation and consistent positive reinforcement training are crucial for a well-adjusted Wheaten Terrier.

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1300 974 066

Sign up to our newsletter

Disclaimer and important things you should know

Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.

We’re partnered with lenders, insurers and other financial institutions who compensate us for business initiated through our website. We earn a commission each time a customer chooses or buys a product advertised on our site, which you can find out more about here, as well as in our credit guide for asset finance. It’s also crucial to read the terms and conditions, Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or credit guide of our partners before signing up for your chosen product. However, the compensation we receive doesn’t impact the content written and published on our website, as our writing team exercises full editorial independence.

For more information about us and how we conduct our business, you can read our privacy policy and terms of use.