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Welsh Terrier

Thinking about purchasing an Welsh Terrier? Then read our breed profile including a brief description, information on height, weight, color, coat, temperament, grooming, activity and history. Purchasing a new puppy is a commitment that may last ten or more years so please educate yourself on the Welsh Terrier breed, including all stages of their life from puppy hood to older dog.

Ask yourself will I be a good owner? Do I have the time it takes to train a new puppy? Do I have the resources to give my new dog a rewarding life. Do I have a local veterinarian that I can take my new dog to? Do I have a groomer or can I do the grooming myself on a regular basis. Fundamental requirements for a being a good Welsh Terrier owner;

properly feed your new dog,
house them comfortably
train them in basic obedience.

Before making a purchase talk to the breeder, ask them many questions about their dogs and the breed in general. A good breeder will teach you about the Welsh Terrier and they will have many questions for you about your home and life style and if this breed is suited for you and your family.

Questions you may want to ask an Welsh Terrier Breeder:

When were your Welsh Terriers born? When will they be allowed to leave?
Have your puppies received their first shots? being wormed? had a puppy check up with your veterinarian?
What type of socialization have the puppies received? with children? with other pets? in the home?
Have you seen genetic problems in previous litters? What are your health guarantees?
Are there any health certifications on the sire or dam?
What is the temperament of the puppies, of the mother? shy? boisterous? aggressive? skittish?
If you become unable to care for your new Welsh Terrier, will the breeder help you find a new home?

It is recommended that you sign a contract with the breeder so that there will be no misunderstandings on the arrangements made. Then bring home your new Welsh Terrier and enjoy as "there is no greater love then a dog's devotion."

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Welsh Terrier Profile

Bold and spirited, the Welsh Terrier is similar to the Airedale Terrier and Lakeland Terrier in appearance. A true terrier at heart, they are not as hot-headed as some of the other terriers. They are affectionate dogs who have outgoing natures making them ideal family pets. Welsh Terriers are reserved around strangers, and make brave watchdogs. Welsh Terriers are a game, alert, aware, and spirited breed. But at the same time, Welsh Terriers are friendly and show self control. Welsh Terriers are intelligent and have a desire to please which is evident in their attitude. Being of smaller size than their relatives the Airedale Terriers, they are of good size with small drop ears and docked tails. Welsh Terriers are sometimes referred to as "Welshies", and usually have black and tan colorations. They have wiry, abundant fur that is hard to the touch. With somewhat of a beard and a fringe on their legs, the Welshie is an interesting looking breed with a curious personality.

Type: Terrier

Height: 14 - 15.5 inches.
Weight: 19 - 22 lbs.

Colors: Black and tan as well as black, grizzle and tan. It is free of black penciling on the toes and black below the hocks is undesirable.
Coat: Their double coat is abundant, wiry, dense, hard and close.

Temperament: Welsh Terriers are active and playful. They are very curious, sometimes too much for their own good. They are an intelligent and game breed, ready for any kind of fun. They are friendly and outgoing with all kinds of people. Welsh Terriers are spirited, courageous and bold dogs.
With Children: Yes, they are usually patient with children.
With Pets: Yes, if socialized from a young age not to chase.
Special Skills: Hunting dog and family pet

Watch-dog: Very High. Welsh Terriers are very inquisitive and intelligent.
Guard-dog: Low.

Welsh Terrier Care and Exercise: Brush the Welsh Terrier three times per week, bathe when necessary. Regular trimming of their coat is needed if they are being shown, preferably by hand-stripping. Their coats need to be stripped twice a year. Clipping the dog's coat is a popular alternative. Regular daily exercise is also needed, on or off the leash. They enjoy their exercise. Welsh Terriers enjoy a game of ball or a run in the countryside. They also enjoy swimming.
Training: Welsh Terriers need basic obedience training to make them an enjoyable companion. Give them a constant variety and remain consistent as they will try to divert you from your intentions.
Learning Rate: High. Obedience - Low. Problem Solving - Medium.

Activity: Very High. This breed requires a lot of exercise.
Special Needs: Exercise, firm but positive training, grooming and socialization.
Living Environment: An apartment is adequate if daily exercise is provided for the Welshie. They are an adaptable breed. The best owner for this breed would be a dog-experienced owner living the city or country, as long as it has enough activity.

Welsh Terrier Health Issues: Epilepsy, glaucoma, skin allergies and thyroid problems.

Life Span: 10 - 12 years.
Litter Size: 3 - 6 puppies.

Country of Origin: Wales
Welsh Terrier History: Developed in North Wales and the north of England they were used to hunt otter, foxes and badgers. Their direct ancestors are two from strains: The Celtic strain using the coarse-haired Black and Tan Terrier and the English strain using the Airedale and Fox Terrier. They only appeared as a separate breed in the 18th late century. It is thought that the English strain has run dry presently. In 1885 the Celtic version was shown and a year later the Welsh Terrier Club was formed in England. They were recognized by the British Kennel Club in 1887. In 1901 the breed made its way to America, and they were originally popular for hunting badger, fox and otter. They are often compared to the Airedale terrier, in which the Welsh is smaller. They are also compared to the Wire Fox Terrier, in which the Welshie has a broader head.

First Registered by the AKC: 1888
AKC Group: Terrier
Class: Terrier
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 3), KC (GB), UKC

Welsh Terriers

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Wednesday, December 17, 2008