Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are rapidly becoming in demand due to their highly affectionate personalities and adorable looks. Hence, knowing how much it costs is vital if you are also interested in taking home this dog.
The expenses associated with Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier ownership can be anything from purchasing a puppy to its food and healthcare needs. The prices may also vary depending on several factors that you should know.
Are you now more intrigued about this breed? Keep reading this article if you want to know everything about the costs and expenses of owning a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier!
How Much Does a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Puppy Cost?
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers from reputable breeders cost between $1,500 and $2,500. Meanwhile, the price for top-tier breed lines ranges from $3,500 to $6,500. These numbers are influenced by various factors, such as demand, the breeder’s reputation, and coat color.
The cost of a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier puppy is definitely in the higher tiers. Thus, it is better to be financially prepared if you are determined to raise one.
The average price of medium-sized terriers, like the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, is more expensive than small ones. Therefore, you can expect a Wheaten Terrier to be more costly than a Jack Russel Terrier.
Nonetheless, compared to other medium-sized terriers, such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, Wheatens are less expensive.
Aside from the Wheaten pup’s cost, there are other expenses you should be aware of if you want to own this dog, which will be discussed in the succeeding sections.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier From a Shelter?
Adopting a rescue is a better option to save money on having a pet. You can expect to spend $150 to $500 to rehome a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
The adoption fee includes medical expenses, vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and registration papers.
Nonetheless, you should set realistic expectations if you plan on adopting from a shelter. Most of the dogs in shelters are usually adults and seniors. Nonetheless, this does not mean that they are not suitable as pets.
Choosing to adopt will allow you to save money and provide an abandoned dog with the new home it needs.
First-Time Expenses of Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Ownership
As mentioned earlier, besides the puppy cost, you should also be mindful of the other costs associated with Wheaten ownership. These include items and supplies essential in welcoming your pup to its new home.
Below is a list of the first-time expenses associated with Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier ownership:
- Food and Treats: Feeding a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier with high-quality dog food is enough for its nutritional needs. You may also give it treats during training as a form of reward. These expenses may cost from $70 to $110.
- Bowls: Be sure to purchase quality and appropriately proportioned food and water bowls. It will help you save some pennies in the long run and help maintain the right amount of food for your pet. About $10 to $30 is enough for two-in-one bowls.
- Toys: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are extroverted dogs that need regular exercise and playtime. It will help if you buy chew toys for their jaw and teeth development. As they are smart, you may also want to get them puzzle feeders to provide mental stimulation. Toys may cost from $30 to $60.
- Beds: Good sleep is essential for your pet’s relaxation and overall health. Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers have moderate to high energy levels. You can get them a comfortable bed for $40 to $200. They are medium-sized dogs, so remember to buy the appropriate size.
- Collars and Leashes: As a Terrier, this breed can become stubborn if not trained properly. For this, a good-fitted collar and adjustable leash are necessary. You can also use these when taking them out to play. It can cost between $15 and $50 for a good pair.
- Crate and Carriers: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are perfect companions if you are adventurous. You can add a carrier to your shopping list. A crate is great for teaching independence to your dog and preventing separation anxiety when you are not around. Expect to spend $50 to $370 for these.
- Grooming Essentials: Shedding is not a problem for a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, but matting is. Choose the right shampoo, brush, toenail clippers, and de-shedding tool to prevent fur disaster. You should secure $50 to $160 for all of these items.
- Initial Vet Visits: Regular visits to your local veterinarian will help keep your dog’s condition in check. Getting advice for diet and behavior management is another factor to consider when consulting the vet. A visit to the vet can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the health assessments done.
- Initial Vaccine Shots: Vaccine shots ensure the safety of your dog and the people around it. Before it turns a year old, a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier needs vaccines against rabies, distemper, parainfluenza, hepatitis, and parvovirus. You need to shell out $50 to $200 for vaccines.
- Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: Diseases start with parasitic infestation. Hence, protecting your dog from worms, fleas, and ticks is a must. These preventive medications typically cost anywhere between $40 and $300.
- Neutering or Spaying: Two benefits of neutering and praying are preventing accidental pregnancy or fatherhood of your pet and decreasing the risk of getting certain types of cancer. If you want your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier altered, prepare $50 to $500.
- Microchipping: In case your pet gets lost, an embedded microchip containing information about you, the owner, and the dog itself, is used in tracking. A microchip is a small, harmless device available at your local vet clinic. It costs about $40 to $60.
- Dog License: A dog license registers your dog in the local or national database that collects necessary information like a microchip. It functions in locating and retrieving your dog. This may cost you $10 to $20.
- Other Essentials: These are some miscellaneous items you may want to purchase in addition to grooming and feeding essentials, such as pee pads, poop scooper, and stain and odor removal spray. You may need another $20 to $50 for these items.
Below is a summary of all the necessary first-time expenses and price ranges for your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier puppy:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $70 – $110 |
| Bowls | $10 – $30 |
| Toys | $30 – $60 |
| Beds | $40 – $200 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $50 – $370 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $160 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $200 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | $505 – $2,610 |
Before buying or adopting one, you should be financially prepared. It may be expensive for some, but giving your pet a comfortable home is necessary.
I recall a friend of mine who got his Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier from a reputable breeder. I was impressed by how he did a very good job of researching before going for a deal.
Not only did he get a very healthy dog with complete registrations and health guarantees for $2,000, but he also received a goodie bag from the breeder that contained a month’s supply of dog food, dog shampoo, a free leash and collar, a slicker brush, and a couple of toys.
I would encourage the rest of those interested in getting a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier to not rush into what seems like a good deal. Always thoroughly research first to get the most out of your hard-earned money.
Annual Cost of Owning a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
While there are some things you may not spend money on again, there are expenses that should be in your annual budget if you plan to own a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
Medical maintenance and grooming will take most of these regular spendings. While it is pricey, regular check-ups with your local vet will prevent diseases and help cut back on expenses.
You can check the table below to have an idea of the yearly costs of keeping a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier:
| Type of Expense | Yearly Estimate |
| Food and Treats | $500 – $1,000 |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $200 – $600 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $150 – $400 |
| Vaccinations | $100 – $250 |
| Grooming Essentials | $150 – $450 |
| Leashes and Collars | $25 – $70 |
| Beds and Crates | $150 – $500 |
| Toys | $50 – $200 |
| Pet Insurance | $500 – $900 |
| Other Essentials | $50 – $80 |
| Yearly Total | $1,875 – $4,450 |
| Average Monthly Cost | $156 – $370 |
Food and treats top the list. It typically costs less to buy them in bulk, but always consider the brand and nutritional value of commercially-bought dog food.
Getting pet insurance will lessen the burden of worrying about financial decisions on your pet’s treatment in case of urgent healthcare. Companies offer different services depending on your budget.
Affordable plans may cover issues like accidental swallowing or bone fracture. Meanwhile, higher tiers will cover illnesses and surgeries.
Other Potential Expenses to Consider
Now that you can estimate how much it will cost to own a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, it should motivate you to be wise with your spending.
Aside from the necessities discussed, here are some additional costs you may encounter while caring for your Wheaten:
- Dog Training: Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are social and happy creatures. However, as it is still a Terrier, you can expect them to be intelligent and sometimes stubborn. To prevent them from developing unwanted behaviors, you can send them to a training school for $900 to $2,000.
- Grooming Services: If you are occupied with other responsibilities, neglecting brushing maintenance may cause matting in your dog’s coat. If this is the case, you can take your pet to a professional groomer at least every three months. A complete bath and trimming can cost between $55 and $85 per session.
- Dog Sitting: If your lifestyle involves traveling, you should save money for pet boarding or dog sitting. Some veterinary clinics and shelters offer pet lodging, or you may ask a dog sitter to look after your buddy. Dog sitting and hotel services can cost $30 to $50 daily.
- Property Damage: Playing and interacting with locals benefit your dog’s health and behavioral development. Hence, taking your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier in public spaces is a good move. However, you would want to keep $75 to $100 for unexpected property damage your pet may cause.
- Pet Fees: Living in a rented apartment or accommodation may add to your list of expenses. Your lease may charge pet deposits, pet fees, or pet rent. These are one-time and non-refundable payments that cover cleaning fees. The price is affected by breed, size, and weight, but the range is usually $50 to $500.
- Medical Treatment: Though regarded as a fit breed, the age of your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier increases the risk of getting illnesses and injuries. Without pet insurance, you should prepare $800 to $5,000 for emergency treatments and medications.
These potential expenses are worth adding to your budget. While you can train or groom your pet, the other possible expenditures may be beyond your control.
With this in mind, you should not be surprised that owning a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier takes more than just your attention and commitment.
Watch this Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier ace its obedience training:
Best Places to Find Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), so searching for a reputable and accredited breeder is relatively easy. You may check out the AKC Marketplace to find several trusted breeders.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America (SCWTCA) is also an official partner of AKC. This club also has guides and lists of breeders classified by location.
Meanwhile, here are a few reputable Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier breeders you can contact:
- O’Mannion’s Wheaten Terriers – Established in 1977, this breeder is a member of both AKC and SCWTCA. They raise healthy and well-behaved Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, regularly participating in dog show circuits. With this amount of care for their puppies, you should be ready for their meticulous adoption process.
- Banner Wheatens – Run by hobby breeders since 1998, Banner Wheatens is also a merit breeder recognized by AKC and a member of SCWTCA. They are passionate about improving the overall breed quality of Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers. Moreover, they emphasize the match between the potential owner and the puppy.
- Whindancer Wheatens – This AKC Breeder of Merit recipient breeds Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier puppies from champion lines known for their exceptional intelligence, elegant coats, superior physiques, and good temperaments. They provide complete health tests, screening, and vaccination to their dogs.
Aside from buying from reputable breeders, adopting a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier from shelters is also one way to take home this adorable dog.
If you are more inclined towards adopting from rescues, you can check these places:
- National Wheaten Rescue – This non-profit organization has a network of rescuers across the United States. They foster and rehabilitate abandoned Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, providing them with medical attention. You can also consult them for advice on behavioral problems you may have with your pet.
- Midwest Wheaten Rescue – This rescue saves Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers and rehomes them. They are very particular with assessing the potential owner, requiring them to sign an adoption contract and pay adoption fees. Nevertheless, you are assured that the dogs they put up for adoption are well-vetted.
- Wheatens In Need (WIN) – WIN is a group of volunteers committed to the rescue and providing abandoned Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers with new homes. They operate in Canada and the United States. You may apply for adoption on their website, so they can evaluate if you are a perfect match for the dog.
Most of the breeders and shelters mentioned above perform the necessary health examinations and treatments before they give the pups to you.
Reviewing the adoption policies and charges breeders and rescues require can help you ace the application and find the perfect match for you.
Money-Saving Tips for Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Owners
Raising your new family member should not take up your hard-earned money. Although owning a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a lifetime financial responsibility, you can use several ways to manage your budget better.
Here are some money-saving tips for Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier owners:
- Make DIY toys. You can make some homemade toys with just common materials at your place. If you have a tennis ball, you can put it inside a sock to make a sock n’ ball. Knotting strips of fabric are a safe option for a chew toy too. You need to be creative in making something out of the materials you already have.
- Have a healthy lifestyle for your Wheaten. An unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and poor hygiene increase the chances of getting infected or ill. Treatment for these conditions can get expensive, especially if you are unprepared. By giving your pet a good lifestyle, you can save a lot in future medical expenses while worrying less about your buddy’s well-being.
- Groom your Wheaten Terrier at home. If you have the time and tools to get started, you may groom your Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier at home. Online tutorials are available, and grooming materials are just one-time purchases. In addition, this can also be a great bonding time between you and your dog!
- Prepare homemade dog food and treats. While it is convenient to buy commercial dog food, it may cost you more to get the complete nutritional needs of your pet. Preparing homemade dog food and treats is a good alternative. You also have the freedom to use organic ingredients and add more supplements.
- Watch out for deals and discounts. Aside from buying bulk, you can cut costs by taking advantage of deals and discounts in pet stores. These may apply to food and treats, grooming and hygiene items, and pet insurance. You may also pay attention to online stores if they offer cheaper options.
You can also utilize the power of the internet and reach out to fellow Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier owners. Do not hesitate to ask them for more money-saving tips.
Nevertheless, cutting costs should never be done at the expense of your pet’s health. It would be best if you still prioritized your dog’s wellness.
Final Thoughts
Perfect as a family pet or a show dog, the intelligence and playfulness of a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier are just two of its natural charms. It is no wonder that anyone may dream of having one.
As a medium-sized breed, remember that the average cost of owning a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier falls at the expensive end.
Budgeting and managing your finances while caring for your pet will take a lot of effort. While there are several ways to cut back on spending, its everyday needs must always be met.
If the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier cost is not a problem, nothing should stop you from taking home one. Let us know in the comments once you have welcomed your new pet into your home!
