Wheagle
The Wheagle is a charming blend of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Beagle, both of which are known for their friendly disposition and affection for people. Wheagles truly reflect these qualities, making them excellent companions for children while retaining their playful nature even as they grow older. However, their cleverness can sometimes result in a stubborn attitude when it comes to training. To ensure success, it’s crucial to start obedience training early and to maintain regular reinforcement. Moreover, consistent exercise is vital to effectively channel their high energy levels.
Breed Origin
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was bred as a farm dog for the working class in Ireland. This sturdy and compact breed was mainly employed for herding animals and managing pests like rats. Due to restrictions preventing Irish commoners from owning Hounds, they developed this breed to fulfill their requirements. The Irish Kennel Club officially recognized the Wheaten Terrier in 1937, notably on Saint Patrick’s Day. It made its first appearance in the United States in 1946, but it wasn't until 1973 that the American Kennel Club acknowledged it. The Beagle is an ancient breed with roots that date back to Roman times. It is thought to have evolved from the now-extinct Talbot Hound, a hunting dog brought to England by William the Conqueror in 1066. Queen Elizabeth I reportedly kept packs of small Beagles, known as Pocket Beagles, which were originally used for hunting. However, they eventually fell out of favor compared to the faster Foxhound, which had longer legs. Fortunately, the Beagle breed endured and saw a resurgence in the 1800s, becoming popular for rabbit hunting. Their endearing looks quickly captured the hearts of Americans, leading to their importation into the United States. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885, and it has remained a cherished choice ever since. The Wheagle, a more recent hybrid breed, has an uncertain background. Nevertheless, with the friendly disposition, manageable size, and intelligence of its parent breeds, it undoubtedly offers a delightful mix!
Breed Appearance
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers are beloved for their soft, wavy fur, which typically comes in shades of cream or black. They have small to medium-sized ears that hang forward, a robust, square-shaped body, and long legs. Their eyes are almond-shaped and brown, while their tails are relatively straight, never curling over their backs. In a similar vein, Beagles are characterized by their compact, square bodies and straight front legs. Their tails have a slight curve and are often held upright, particularly when they are excited or following an intriguing scent. Beagles possess round, compact paws and large brown eyes, complemented by medium to large ears that hang down beside their heads. Their muzzles are medium-length, straight, and square, with noses that can be either brown or black. Beagles have a smooth yet dense double coat that is water-resistant and provides warmth, available in various colors, including white and tan, tricolor, blue tick, white and brown, or combinations of these shades. The appearance of a Wheagle, a crossbreed of these two dogs, will vary based on the genetic traits inherited from its parents, but it is likely to showcase a mix of their features. One thing is for sure: they will possess those charming, large brown puppy dog eyes.
Care Routine
Fortunately, whether the Wheagle resembles its Wheaten Terrier parent with its soft, wavy coat or takes after its Beagle ancestry with a sleek, double-layered fur, grooming is generally straightforward. A weekly brushing is sufficient to avoid tangles and eliminate loose hair. Baths should be given only when necessary, especially considering the Wheaten’s tendency towards sensitive skin. If the Wheagle has inherited the prominent ears characteristic of Beagles, it’s crucial to check them a few times each month for any signs of irritation, as trapped moisture can lead to infections. To promote good dental hygiene, it’s advisable to brush their teeth weekly to prevent tartar buildup, and monthly nail trimming will help keep their paws in optimal condition.
Behavior & Temperament
The term "amiable" is often used to describe both parent breeds of the Wheagle, and it perfectly captures their essence. This breed truly excels as a charming family pet. Wheagles are energetic, playful, and possess a youthful exuberance. They thrive on interaction with their human family, especially children! While they can alert you to visitors at the door, don’t expect them to act as protectors. Their disposition leans more towards friendliness than aggression, and they easily make friends with everyone they meet, including other animals. These dogs are brimming with energy, so regular exercise is essential; without it, they may engage in destructive behaviors like chewing on inappropriate items, digging, or trying to escape in search of adventure. Wheagles are intelligent and typically easy to train, but they respond best to positive reinforcement techniques. They need to see a personal advantage in their training, or they may quickly lose interest. Given that Beagles are known for their strong food motivation, Wheagles may inherit this trait, which can lead to possessiveness over their food bowls. It’s crucial to train them to accept handling of their food dishes from an early age to avoid any future problems. In summary, these lively pups are incredibly loving and affectionate, making them wonderful companions, especially for families with young children. Their undeniable cuteness is simply irresistible!
Play & Exercise
Regular physical activity is crucial for these lively and intelligent dogs. Without sufficient exercise, Wheagles may become noisy and destructive. It’s recommended to walk them for at least an hour each day, with even longer sessions being ideal for younger dogs. Beyond physical activity, Wheagles also need mental engagement due to their sharp minds. Activities like training sessions or scent tracking games—favorites among Beagles—can keep their minds stimulated and channel their energy in a positive way. This breed flourishes with human companionship, so as long as their exercise requirements are met, your Wheagle will be eager to snuggle with you. While they can adjust to different living environments, their vocal nature might make them less suited for apartment living. Nevertheless, providing plenty of exercise can help reduce their barking. These adaptable dogs can thrive in various climates, although they generally prefer cooler weather.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
2.0 Cups
Daily Activity
60 Minutes
Average Lifespan
13 Years
Origin
Unknown
Type
Crossbreeds
Size
Medium
Origin Country
Unknown
Brush Frequency
Weekly
Coat Texture
Wavy
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Height & Weight
Weight
25 lbs (11 kg)Male: 28 lbs (13 kg) , Female: 23 lbs (10 kg)
Height
18 inches (46 sm)Male: 19 inches (48 sm) , Female: 17 inches (43 sm)
6 Months
13 lbs ( m 13 lbs, f 13 lbs )
10 inches ( m 10 inches, f 10 inches )
12 Months
16 lbs ( m 16 lbs, f 16 lbs )
13 inches ( m 13 inches, f 13 inches )
18 Months
22 lbs ( m 22 lbs, f 22 lbs )
16 inches ( m 16 inches, f 16 inches )
Eye Colors
Brown
Amber
Nose Colors
Black
Brown
Coat Colors
White
Cream
Red
Brown
Black
