Championing Commitment, Community and Care

Behind every successful breeder is not just dedication, but a deep-rooted love for their dogs, their breed, and the community that surrounds them. Following the latest Royal Kennel Club Breeders' Competition sponsored by Agria and supported by Our Dogs results, Silkcroft Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers have emerged as a standout name, not just for their achievements in the ring, but for the values that underpin their breeding programme.

We spoke to Silkcroft breeder Cheryl Satherley about what the recognition means, why the Breeder Stakes competition holds such a special place in her heart, and how a lifelong passion for the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier has shaped everything she does as a breeder.

A competition built on teamwork and tradition

For Cheryl, the Royal Kennel Club Breeders' Competition sponsored by Agria and supported by Our Dogs is about far more than placings or points.

“It’s competitive, but it’s fun,” she explains. “There’s a real sense of community among the breeders who take part year after year. We all know how much commitment it takes, and there’s a lot of mutual respect.”

That commitment is significant. Competing means presenting multiple dogs at peak condition, coordinating handlers, grooming, travel, and managing show schedules that often overlap with breed classes. It’s a true team effort, one that at Silkcroft, extends well beyond the ring.

“It really is a family affair,” Cheryl says. “My sister, my husband, my mum, friends, junior handlers, everyone gets involved. Even when I can’t be there, the team still goes into the ring. That says everything about how much it means to us.”

Recognition that reflects responsible breeding

Topping the leaderboard is a proud moment, but for Cheryl, the recognition represents something deeper than success alone.

“It shows that we’re doing something right,” she says. “Not just in terms of results, but in producing dogs that are confident, happy, and genuinely enjoy what they’re doing.”

That focus on temperament sits alongside health as a cornerstone of Silkcroft’s breeding philosophy. While some puppies go on to enjoy successful show careers, the vast majority become family pets and Cheryl believes those dogs deserve exactly the same level of care and consideration. As an Agria Breeder Club Member, Cheryl activates 5 Weeks Free Agria insurance (5WF) for every puppy that leaves for its new home, ensuring they are protected during those vital early weeks and giving new owners peace of mind from day one.

“We breed dogs that can cope with life,” she explains. “Busy homes, noises, children, new experiences. Confidence and stability are just as important as conformation.”

Falling in love with the Wheaten Terrier

Cheryl’s journey with the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier began long before Silkcroft existed, sparked by a childhood trip to the United States and a dog named Boo Bear.

“I’d never even heard of the breed before,” she recalls. “But he was this lovely, teddy-bear of a dog, and I completely fell in love.”

That first connection eventually led to the arrival of Barnaby, the family’s first Wheaten, and later Dylan — the dog that marked the beginning of the Silkcroft story. Like many breeders, Cheryl’s early years in the show world were a learning curve. “We didn’t start out winning,” she says. “That first reserve ticket meant everything. You never forget those moments.”

More than a show dog

Today, Silkcroft dogs are known not just for their success in the ring, but for their versatility. One standout is Ruby (currently the top-winning Wheaten in the UK) who also does agility, holds Good Citizen awards, and was the first Wheaten in the country to achieve an internationally recognised Trick Dog title.

“She’s got brains as well as beauty,” Cheryl laughs. “That’s really important to us. Dogs should be allowed to be dogs.”

From enrichment activities and training to agility and socialisation, Silkcroft dogs live active, varied lives that support both mental and physical wellbeing.

Health, ethics and long-term thinking

Responsible breeding, Cheryl believes, is about playing the long game.

“We do extensive health testing - DNA testing, hip scoring, eye testing, kidney screening - and we work closely with breed clubs and international breeders to protect genetic diversity,” she explains.

As a numerically small and vulnerable breed, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier relies heavily on breeders who are willing to collaborate, travel, and plan generations ahead.

“It’s not about producing puppies,” Cheryl says. “It’s about protecting the future of the breed.”

Support that lasts a lifetime

That sense of responsibility doesn’t end when a puppy leaves for its new home. Silkcroft owners become part of an ongoing support network, with open communication, a dedicated owners’ group, and a promise that help is always available.

“My phone is on 24/7,” Cheryl says simply. “If someone needs advice at two in the morning, I’m there.”

It’s this level of aftercare, combined with transparency, education, and community, that truly defines responsible breeding.

Why choose a Wheaten Terrier?

Affectionate, intelligent, and full of character, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a breed that thrives on companionship and engagement.

“They’re not a ‘leave them on the sofa all day’ kind of dog,” Cheryl explains. “But if you’re willing to invest time in training, grooming, and being part of their world, you’ll get an incredible family companion in return.”

A win for the breed, not just the breeder

Silkcroft’s success in the Royal Kennel Club Breeders' Competition sponsored by Agria and supported by Our Dogs is a celebration not only of results, but of ethics, passion, and people who truly put dogs first.

Sarah White, Breeder Channel Manager, adds: “It has been an absolute honour to watch Cheryl and her beautiful Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier team compete this year. Their dedication and sportsmanship truly shine, and I wish them the very best of luck at Crufts.”

As Cheryl puts it:
“If you’re going to do it - do it properly. That’s how you sleep at night.”

And it’s exactly that mindset that keeps responsible breeding moving forward.