Do you want your Welsh Terrier to be one of the best-trained dogs? Click here to find out how
The Welsh Terrier is as alert and spirited as any self-respecting terrier, but a bit calmer than most game, not quarrelsome, breed fanciers say. The Welshman was bred to do battle with badgers, otters, and other dangerous opponents. Sturdy, compact, and rugged, with a tight-fitting black-and-tan coat and a rectangular head featuring folded ears and a jaunty beard, Welsh are constructed along the classic lines of Britain’s long-legged terriers. They stand about 15 inches at the shoulder, a little larger than the Lakeland Terrier but much smaller than the mighty Airedale. All three breeds, however, share a family resemblance: An ancient breed called the Old English Black and Tan Terrier is thought to be the granddaddy of these and some other British terriers
History
It’s impossible to say when Welsh Terriers came into being, but the breed as we know it was taking shape sometime in the 1700s. They were bred to hunt fox, otter, and badger in the remote mountainous region of northern Wales. Welsh Terriers, with their powerful forequarters and punishing jaws, along with typical terrier courage, were equipped for the task of going head to head with sharp-toothed, razor-clawed prey. Badgers, especially, are dangerous adversaries, and digging them out of their lairs was no job for sissy dogs.
Quick Facts
Temperament: Friendly / Intelligent / Spirited
Height: 15 inches
Weight: 20 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Terrier Group
Health
Welsh puppies are generally hardy, thrive with regular care, and don’t seem to be as fragile as many other puppies. Welsh who reach 15 to 18 years of age are not uncommon, but the average lifespan seems to be 12 to 14. Responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as allergy problems, hip dysplasia and Legge-Calve-Perthes disease.
Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club:
- PLL DNA Test
Grooming
Care of the Welsh Terrier’s coat is similar to that for other broken-coated terriers. The hair can be plucked by hand, commonly referred to as hand-stripping. This type of grooming is a continual process and an art that takes years to master. Pet grooming for a Welsh Terrier is not complicated. The dog should be clipped every 8 to 12 weeks, leaving the coat longer in cold weather. The nails should be trimmed at least weekly, and the dog brushed once or twice a week. Usually bathing between clippings is not necessary, but if it is, use a good shampoo that contains moisturizers.
Exercise
Welsh Terriers are high-energy dogs. They enjoy getting exercise by doing activities with their owner such as playing ball or catching a flying disc in a fenced yard. They should have lots of running time in an enclosed area, as well as a long walk every day or so. Once the dog is an adult, and only if he is in good health, let him run and play until really tired out, but not exhausted.
Training
Welsh Terriers are friendly and outgoing, but puppies need to be adequately socialized by their owners to encourage polite behavior around other dogs. All Welsh should be taught to be under control and tolerant of other dogs when walking on lead. Lots of exercise and attention help this energetic dog become the affectionate, well-behaved companion he was born to be.
Nutrition
The Welsh Terrier should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
Do you want your Welsh Terrier to be one of the best-trained dogs? Click here to find out how
