Welsh Terriers
Welsh Terriers may not be as well known as some other Terrier breeds, but they do make staunch family companions. They have the typical temperament and twinkle in their eyes that people have come to expect from this group of dogs.
About Welsh Terriers
The Welsh is a very old Terrier breed, and it's generally acknowledged they descend from the old Black and Tan Terrier as well as the Airedale. Some believe that the Wire Fox Terrier was also used to establish size and type.
It's well documented that Welsh Terriers were bred to be hunting companions. They were originally used to pursue foxes, badgers, otters and vermin. This activity led to the selection of spirited breeding stock that also evidenced a willingness to cooperate with their human counterparts.
Today, Welshes are mainly family companions, although some dogs perform double duty in the field.
General Description
Body
Many people are familiar with the Airedale Terrier, and it's fair to say that the Welsh looks remarkably similar, although it comes in a smaller package. Welshes present a square appearance when viewed from the side. The chest is deep, but the body is somewhat narrow while still well muscled. These dogs stand approximately 15 inches tall and weigh about 20 pounds. They have the typical Terrier outline with a level back, straight front legs and angulated rear legs. Tails are typically docked to be level with the back of the skull, and are held upright.The Welsh's expression should display intelligence and good humor as befits his lively and inquisitive nature.
Coat
The Welsh Terrier coat is quite wiry and thick. It fits the dog very closely, although there is a thick undercoat that insulates these dogs from the weather.It's an interesting fact that Welshes are born black, and the coat begins to lighten somewhat with age. This results in the typical "jacket" pattern of either black or grizzle over tan or reddish-tan. The head is typically a pure tan.
Personality
Having been bred to hunt game, these dogs are naturally alert and don't miss much that goes on around them. They are typically up for anything you have in mind and can be quite energetic when it's called for. However, the Welsh Terrier appears to have a bit more self control than some of the other dogs in this group, and this makes them easier to live with under most circumstances. You can generally rely on the adult Welsh to exercise some common sense and calmer manners.
As an added bonus, the Welsh is not quite as feisty or territorial and tends to get along well with other dogs in the home. They also do well with children, as long as the children are taught to respect the dog as a family member and not a toy.
Training
All Welsh Terriers can benefit from basic obedience training. These dogs are quite intelligent, and if you don't establish your place as the pack leader, you'll likely find your pet prefers to think entirely for himself. Luckily, Welshes are also willing to please, and training is accomplished with relative ease.
In addition to obedience training, these dogs are also enthusiastic about agility because it mimics many of the conditions these dogs would experience in the field while pursuing quarry.
Exercise Needs
The Welsh was bred to have stamina, so a certain amount of exercise is required to keep these dogs physically fit and stress free. Brisk daily walks are good, but a romp in an open field is even better. This dog's mind needs to be occupied as well to keep boredom, and resulting destructive behavior, at bay. Engage him in a game of fetch or Frisbee. Also, be sure to offer durable but interactive dog toys in the home so your pet has acceptable entertainment available to him. This will go a long way toward curbing inappropriate chewing and other mischief.
Grooming
The Welsh's coat does need routine attention to keep it from looking scruffy. These dogs are typically plucked rather than shaved, and the longer featherings on the legs and bearded muzzle should be combed to remove mats. A slicker brush is a good tool for removing loose undercoat and a pin brush should be used for regular brushing several times a week. If you allow your dog to run the fields, as most Welshes love to do, be sure to brush burrs and other debris out of his coat upon his return.
Health
The average life span for this Terrier is about 10 to 12 years. The breed is fairly hardy, but like most purebred dogs, there are a few health concerns to be on the look out for.
These include:
- Skin allergies
- Glaucoma
- Thyroid gland problems, typically hypothyroidism
- Epilepsy
Be sure to ask breeders specific questions about any health issues in their lines, as well as what testing has been performed on the parents and grandparents of any litter under your consideration. Legitimate breeders will be happy to share this information and glad to see you've done your homework.
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