Outgoing and Friendly, the Welsh Terrier has a Spunky Attitude and Ample Energy

A cute, somewhat unkempt-looking dog, the Welsh Terrier is the perfect pet for any individual or family, but particularly young families who are active, as the breed is energetic and needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Friendly and playful, Welsh Terrier Puppies are easy to train and make a great addition to your family. They also are excellent watch dogs, although they are not aggressive.

History

Originating in Wales, the Welsh Terrier was bred originally to be used for hunting badger, rodents, and fox. Unlike most other breeds, this one has changed very little in appearance over the years; in fact, the color of the Welsh Terrier is the same today as it was more than a century ago. Research suggests that the breed is the oldest still in existence in the United Kingdom. Having only about 300 puppies registered on a yearly basis in the UK, the Welsh Terrier is on the UK Kennel Club’s list of breeds in danger of becoming extinct.

Prescott Lawrence first brought the breed to the United States in 1888. He showed a male and female at the old Madison Square Garden in the Miscellaneous Class after importing them to the United States. Ancestors of the Welshie are believed to be the Airedale Terrier, Irish and Lakeland Terriers, and the broken-coated Black and Tan Terrier. The Welsh Terrier Club of America was founded in 1900 and its popularity in America has continued to increase since that time.

Appearance

A medium-size dog, Welsh Terrier Puppies grow up to typically stand between 14 and 15 inches tall and weigh between 20 and 22 pounds as an adult. The Welsh Terrier has a double coat consisting of an insulating undercoat, and an abrasive, wiry and curly outer coat which protects the breed from cold temperatures, rain, dirt and wind. This wiry coat gives the breed a bit of a messy, disheveled look that is actually quite charming.

The wiry coat and compact body is one reason that the breed is frequently described as a miniature Airedale Terrier. This dog gets its distinctive look from its rectangular body shape and face that appears almost square in appearance due to its whiskers and beard. Its long, rectangle-shaped head is one of the most endearing and recognizable features of the Welsh Terrier.

For the most part, coloring of the breed is defined as tan and black; the legs, head, and underbelly are usually tan, with the saddle being black or grizzle. However, some females have a darker shade of tan in the saddle area, rather than black.

Temperament

Outgoing and friendly, the Welsh Terrier has a spunky attitude and ample energy. However, they are a bit more "sensible" than other typical terriers. Those looking to buy a family pet with plenty of personality will love the Welshie. While they are not aggressive or to be feared by children, your pet will make a wonderful watchdog, as these family dogs will alert your family when someone comes to visit.

Whether romping with the kids (a very child-friendly pet), chasing a ball or Frisbee, or just running through the park, the Welsh Terrier is fun-loving and ready to alert you if anything is amiss. Easy to train, you will find this breed one that, while not aggressive toward other animals, will not back down when challenged. At the end of the day, your great playmate likes nothing better than to have its belly rubbed, and loves to cuddle when it’s time to wind things down.

Environment

The Welsh Terrier is a highly intelligent and active breed, which means your pet will need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. It’s a great apartment or condominium pet as long as you take your dog out daily for exercise and socialization. If you live in a suburban area, a fenced-in yard is ideal to give your pet plenty of room to run and play.

The more exercise and stimulation you give this breed, the better. Lots of vigorous exercise helps keep the Welshie happy, healthy, and mentally fit. Whether you live on a ranch or farm, in a rural area, or in the city makes no difference as long as you dedicate sufficient time each day to your pet's needs.

Health

Living an average of 12 to 13 years if properly cared for and exercised regularly, the Welsh Terrier is a sturdy, healthy dog that is prone to few health issues. Some studies suggest that the breed may be genetically prone to glaucoma, but these studies are not conclusive.

Epilepsy, thyroid disease and lens luxation (dislocation of the lens) are some of the conditions that may be found in this breed. Luxating patella (loose knees), hip dysplasia and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (degeneration of the femur bone) are some orthopedic conditions you may confront, although they are common to many dog breeds. Allergies are also common in all terriers, and can lead to pyoderma and/or itchy skin.

Grooming

The Welsh Terrier is not a heavy shedder, but your pet will require regular grooming to remove loose hair and prevent tangling. Bathe your dog only as needed, and brush about three times each week. Over-bathing will strip the skin of its natural oils. Strip the coat two to three times each year, either by hand or with a stripping knife. Clean ears with a cotton ball and mild cleanser, checking for wax build up, irritation or any signs of infection. Brushing your pet's teeth once a week will help fight gum disease and tartar buildup. If your Welsh Terrier does not wear down his or her nails naturally, trim them once each month.