Wheaten Eskimo History
The Wheatens are considered a rare and primitive breed of purebred sheepdog. The hair coat is wheat colored, which is natural for the shepherding work of the dogs. The head should be wedge-shaped, broad between ears, with well-defined stop. The muzzle should be wide, with nose not prominent. The eyes are dark, and the ears are semi-pricked, hanging almost to ground, and fringed. The neck should be long, deep, and muscular, with the shoulders well laid back. The chest should be deep and well ribbed, the belly should be tucked up, and the tail should be thick at the base and tapering to a fine point. The legs are straight, and the feet should be cat-like, with the toes arched and close together. The Wheatens were developed in Ireland during the mid-1800s and are an ancient Irish breed of guardian and herding dog. The dogs are a traditional part of the culture of Ireland and, as such, are still used for herding and protecting. The dogs are sometimes referred to as the Airedale of Ireland, and as the Irish Wolfhound of America, due to their massive size and strength. The Wheatens have a long history of guarding flocks of sheep, and, as such, are strong, athletic, and courageous. The dogs enjoy working and playing, and are usually good with children and other dogs.
Time of Origin
Unknown
Wheaten Eskimo Physical Characteristics
The Wheaten Eskimo is a small, medium-to-large sized breed of dog that was originally bred in Canada. They typically have a wheat-colored coat with black, blue, or liver markings. They have a muscular, well proportioned body and stand between 16 and 19 inches tall at the withers. Their head is wedge-shaped with a wedge-shaped muzzle, and their eyes are dark, amber in color. They are intelligent, determined dogs that make good family pets.
Eye Colors
Brown, Amber
Nose Colors
Black, Brown
Coat Colors
Cream, Fawn
Height Range
Male Height Range: 17 – 19 inches
Female Height Range: 16 – 19 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 28 – 40 lbs
Female Weight Range: 25 – 40 lbs
Wheaten Eskimo Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
12-15 yrs
Wheaten Eskimo Health Concerns
Retinal Dysplasia, Hip Dysplasia, Kidney Problems, Addison’s Disease, Elbow Dysplasia, Cataracts, Allergies
Wheaten Eskimo Temperament and Behaviour
The Wheaten is a sweet, gentle, and devoted companion. They are often shy around new people, but warm up to them quickly. They are highly intelligent and can learn new commands and tricks easily. They are highly curious and friendly, and get along well with children and other pets.
Wheaten Eskimo Activity Requirements
Wheatens are a mid-sized, shaggy-coated dog with a sweet temperament. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, and they still have that ability today. They are still good with livestock, but they also make wonderful pets. The Wheaten is a medium energy, medium-shedding dog. While they don’t require hours of vigorous exercise, they do require regular walks. They also like to play and will enjoy games of fetch or tug. If you are looking for a low energy, low-shedding pet, the Wheaten may be the right fit. They do well with children and other animals, and they are very affectionate.
Miles Per Day
7 miles
Activity Per Day
60 minutes
Daily Food
2 cups
Kennel Club Recognition
American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Wheaten Eskimo is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.
The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Wheaten Eskimo is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.
Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
Wheaten Eskimo is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.
Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Wheaten Eskimo is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.