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Welsh Terrier Mobile

Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier is an alert, workmanlike dog with a compact, sturdy build. Under the hard wiry protective coat, the Welsh Terrier has reasonably long legs, and stands square, up on his toes, ready for action.

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Small dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

Key Facts

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
Weight:  9 – 9.5kg 
Height:  39cm or less in height
Colours:  Black and tan or black, grizzle and tan  
Size:  Small
UK Kennel Club Groups: Terrier

Ratings

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Family-friendly: 4/5
Exercise needs: 5/5
Easy to train: 3/5
Tolerates being alone: 2/5
Likes other pets: 5/5
Energy level: 5/5
Grooming needs: 3/5
Shedding: 2/5

Personality

An intelligent, active and cheerful dog, the Welsh Terrier is affectionate with family but may be reserved with strangers. As with most terriers, an independent nature and sharp mind mean this is not a dog to be left to their own devices or allowed to become bored. Introduced to resident cats when young, the Welsh Terrier will consider them family, but all bets are off with strangers, particularly if diligence is not applied in training a responsive ‘leave’ and a ‘as reliable as possible’ recall. 

A fun companion for the active outdoors family, the Welsh Terrier is capable of long walks, and taking part in dog related sports or activities.

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Wales

Although broken coated black and tan terrier types have been recorded in Wales as far back as 1450 it is likely the Welsh Terrier we recognise today dates from around 1800. Needing legs long enough to cope with rough terrain, and the ability to follow a horse rather than be carried across the saddle, the Welsh Terrier still needed to be small enough to go to ground and deal with badgers, otters, marten and fox.

These exacting requirements produced a dog with a weatherproof, protective coat, sufficient stamina to run all day, and a ‘never say die’ nature when faced with formidable quarry.

Did You Know?

The Welsh Terrier has been popular with politicians; former Chancellor of the Exchequer Phillip Hammond owned Rex during his time at No.11 Downing St, and Charlie the Welsh Terrier lived somewhat more lavishly in the White House, during John F. Kennedys term as President of the USA.

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