This study suggests that there are two tests that may be very helpful in early detection of protein-losing enteropathy and/or protein-losing nephropathy serious diseases in which protein is lost through the intestine or kidneysin Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers. These tests, both non-invasive, measure the albumin levels in the urine and the alpha1-protease inhibitor in the feces. The syndrome of protein-losing enteropathy and/or protein-losing nephropathy seems to be increasing and does not manifest itself until the dog is four to six years old, after an affected dog might already have been bred. This study sought to determine how the disease is inherited and to develop an early-detection method. The researchers established a breeding program, involving affected and unaffected dogs. The dogs have been screened for signs of the disease using a variety of methods. As the dogs age, the screening methods can be evaluated in future studies and the mode of inheritance can be determined.