Beth Taylor | Cadenza Wheatens Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

Interview with Beth Taylor, Breeder of Cadenza Wheatens Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. What are the hallmarks of your breed and why are they important for maintaining breed type?
3. In your opinion, are there enough puppy homes to support breeding a litter this year?
4. How have you implemented new technologies in science and communications as a breeder?
5. In your community, have you noticed a change in the public’s perception of purebred dogs?
6. Have you noticed any trends in the sport? Anything to be concerned about?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport in recent years?

Beth Taylor

1. My name is Beth Taylor, and I live in Poolesville, Maryland, where my husband and I raised our five children. I became involved with Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers just over 20 years ago when we brought home what we thought was simply a “pet” puppy from my breeder in Michigan. As it turned out, she was a very special “pet,” and within a short time I was encouraged to step into the show ring with her. My kennel name, Cadenza Wheatens, reflects my lifelong career as a vocalist and violinist, as well as the harmony I’ve found in breeding dogs. Since then, I’ve been privileged to raise, show, and share Wheatens that embody the health, temperament, and structure our breed is known for. I am especially proud of breeding and handling my current special, Banner, who has brought such joy to my family and to the Wheaten community.

2. For me, the hallmark of the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is, first and foremost, its unique coat: soft, wavy, abundant, and flowing, unlike any other terrier. It is not only beautiful, but it represents the breed’s Irish roots as a versatile farm dog that could live in the home and work alongside the family. Temperament is another essential hallmark. A true Wheaten is joyful, merry, and affectionate, and I believe that their spirited, loving personality is what makes them so beloved by families. Finally, correct structure and movement are critical; a Wheaten must be agile, balanced, and athletic enough to do the work for which it was bred, with a square outline, a correct tail set, and a strong, rectangular headpiece. Protecting these hallmarks ensures that we preserve not only the Wheaten’s look but also its essence and purpose.

3. In my experience there is always high demand for carefully bred Wheatens and I typically maintain a waiting list that extends beyond a single litter. Many of my applications come from longtime Wheaten families who have recently lost a beloved companion and cannot imagine life without another. Others are new families drawn to the breed’s charm. In either case, I take great care in screening and educating every home before placing a puppy. Wheatens are merry, intelligent, and affectionate, but they are also strong-willed and spirited. They require early socialization, consistent training, structure, and companionship to thrive. For me, breeding is never about simply filling demand; it is about thoughtfully matching each puppy with a family prepared to embrace both the joy and the responsibility of living with this remarkable terrier.

4. I feel very fortunate to be breeding in a time when science and technology provide us with tools that safeguard the future of our dogs. Every dog in my breeding program undergoes extensive health testing, including OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications, DNA panels, and routine blood screenings. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America website (SCWTCA.org) is a wonderful resource for breeders and owners.

In addition, our breed is supported by strong, health-focused organizations, particularly the SCWT Endowment, which maintains a database that collects both pedigree and phenotype data. This effort has become a cornerstone of health research for Wheatens and provides breeders with invaluable information. These resources allow me to make thoughtful, informed decisions and help to ensure the long-term health of the breed.

Technology has also transformed the way I connect with families. From video calls and photo updates to the live puppy cam on our Cadenza Wheatens website (cadenzawheatens.com), new owners feel engaged in the process from the very beginning. This transparency not only brings joy and excitement, it also establishes trust and builds lifelong relationships between my kennel and the families who love my dogs.

5. Yes, I believe there has been a shift in awareness. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America has prioritized education, providing opportunities to raise awareness and inform both members and the public. Families today are asking more questions about health testing, predictable temperament, and the role of preservation breeders—often because they have experienced heartbreak with dogs from “backyard breeders.” Increasingly, people recognize the value of working with a breeder who offers lifetime support, health guarantees, and a clear commitment to the Breed Standard.

At the same time, misinformation about purebred dogs still circulates, so I view education as an ongoing responsibility. Whether at shows, in my neighborhood, or in everyday conversations, I use every opportunity to share why preservation breeding is so vital. When people meet a Wheaten that is health-tested, merry in temperament, and correct in type, they quickly understand the difference that responsible breeding makes.

6. One concern I see is the challenge of maintaining strong entries at shows. Rising costs for both exhibitors and clubs have made participation more difficult, which can discourage newcomers and make majors harder to achieve. These are real hurdles for the future of the sport. On the positive side, I also see breeders and exhibitors collaborating more than ever—supporting one another, mentoring new exhibitors, and sharing knowledge across generations. I believe our greatest responsibility is to remain welcoming and encouraging to the next generation, because their enthusiasm and dedication will carry the sport forward.

7. I have been encouraged by the greater emphasis on health testing and transparency within breeding programs. Our community has embraced scientific tools that support more informed and responsible decisions for the future. I am also inspired by the Junior Handlers and new exhibitors who are stepping in with enthusiasm and dedication. Their passion reminds me why I first fell in love with Wheatens and with showing.

Finally, digital tools have opened up our world; livestreaming and social media now allow the public to celebrate our dogs and learn about our breeds in real time. These changes give me great hope that the future of Conformation and preservation breeding is bright.