Welsh Terrier

The Welsh terrier was developed in Wales during the late 1700s for hunting badgers, foxes and otters. The Welsh terrier was first introduced in the United States in 1888. The American Kennel Club recognized the Welsh terrier later that year as a member of the terrier group.

The Welsh Terrier is a small or medium-sized compact dog. Welsh Terriers have rectangular proportions with long, large heads. Their muzzles are square and their ears are fold forward. This dog breed has wiry double coats that protect them from rain and other cold weather. Generally, the Welsh Terrier looks like a small version of the Airedale Terrier. The coat should be brushed regularly.

Personality

Welsh Terriers are active, intelligent and affectionate. They are friendly with children and are tireless when it comes to playing fetch or frisbee. That's why they make great playmates for children. They need plenty of exercise on a daily basis and exercise should vary to prevent them from becoming bored. They are independent and stubborn, so they need assertive and consistent leadership. They may be aggressive towards other dogs if they feel challenged or threatened.

Breed Characteristics

Welsh Terrier Build Information

Resembling a miniature Airedale terrier, the compact Welsh terrier stands at a height of 15 to 15.5 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 20 and 25 pounds. The dog is clad in a double coat of black, tan and grizzle. The undercoat is soft, and the outer coat is wiry. The Welsh terrier exhibits bushy eyebrows, a mustache and the characteristic terrier beard. The ears are set high and the flaps flip downward and forward. The tail is docked to a length that is level with the top of the dog’s head when carried upright.

Behaviour and Personality

The Welsh terrier is a tenacious, intelligent and active dog. It makes a courageous watchdog and an entertaining family member. Welsh terriers are energetic and require daily physical activity and mental stimulation. They can be stubborn, which makes training a challenge at times. Their hunting instincts prompt them to engage in digging and excavating their property, and they will pursue and kill cats and backyard wildlife. Welsh terriers can become aggressive toward other dogs.

Appearance

Maintaining a neat appearance for the Welsh terrier can be accomplished with a professional trim by a groomer every six to eight weeks. Brushing the coat weekly in between these trims will remove dead hairs and redistribute the natural oils of the skin and coat. The ears should be inspected each week as part of this grooming routine, and they should be kept clean and dry to reduce the risk of ear infections. The teeth should be brushed daily to remove plaque and prevent periodontal disease.

Welsh Terrier Common Health Conditions

Welsh terriers live average lifespans of 10 to 14 years. Some health conditions to be aware of in the Welsh terrier include lens luxation, dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, hypothyroidism, skin allergies, epilepsy and patellar luxation.

Welsh Terrier Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

The Welsh terrier resembles a downsized Airedale terrier and makes a vigilant watchdog and spirited companion. The Welsh terrier originated in Wales. The Welsh terrier is an intelligent and entertaining family member. The Welsh terrier stands 15 to 15.5 inches tall and weighs 20 to 25 pounds. Welsh terriers have high energy levels. Welsh terriers require moderate grooming. The average lifespan for a Welsh terrier is 10 to 14 years.