WILL I BE ALLERGIC TO MY DOG?

 

This is often the first question we hear from people who are interested in Wheatens. Yes, Wheatens are considered a good breed for people that have mild allergies. But, Wheatens themselves can have allergies. Wheatens are among the breeds recommended for people with allergies. They have minimal dander and some people with allergies can easily live with a Wheaten.

 

Still, some people with allergies cannot tolerate Wheatens. Many Wheaten owners are happy for people to meet their dogs and test their tolerance to the Wheaten coat by allowing them in their home for visits.

 

The advantage of a Wheaten coat is you do not find an abundance of fur on your clothes or home once coming in contact with them. The downside is, like our hair, it grows and needs regular trimming and frequent brushing. The bathing process and hair cuts the dogs require can bring on an allergic reaction. Yes, you can take the dog to a groomer for it’s monthly trim. But, remember they need frequent brushing to keep the coat mat-free. 

 

The other problem is allergies within the breed itself. Severe allergies to food or environment are not uncommon for the breed. This can result in chronic itching and poor coat, not to mention the discomfort the dog is in constantly.

 

 Before buying a dog ask the breeder if either parent, or any known dog in the puppy’s pedigree has allergy problems. This is a big concern for breeders and one many are paying more attention to. There seems to be a genetic tendency to pass along this health problem. Allergic problems can be seasonal as well as food-related.

 

HEELING FUN

 

To keep your dog motivated, do short bursts of heeling, breaking it off frequently to play and then continue heeling without making the dog sit. Do lots of fast left, right, and about turns to keep the dog’s attention and to incorporate some fun in your training sessions. As you are heeling, do tight circles to the right and left.

 

 Don’t forget it’s fun for you and your dog to train in different locations too. This can be a different park, a friend’s house, the mall or a schoolyard. This can help keep your training sessions fun for both of you.