Terrier group · Wales
Welsh Terrier
Also called Welshie, WT.
What makes them remarkable
Before its modern name, this Welsh hunter was known as the Black and Tan Wire Haired Terrier.
- Friendly
- Spirited
- Alert
- Intelligent
- Game
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 9 to 10 kg20 to 22 lb
- Lives
- 12 to 15 years
- Energy
- High
- Trains
- Moderate
- Barks
- Moderate
Training
Training a Welsh Terrier
Terrier breeds. Impulse control and a rock-solid leave it. Short, high-value sessions; they bore fast.
Variety is Essential
Start here
Welsh Terriers get bored quickly. Keep training sessions short, fun, and varied.
Rewards first
Treats and praise work. Harsh methods make them dig their heels in.
Early Socialisation
Can be reserved with strangers. Expose to many people and situations during puppyhood.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Welsh Terrier and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Bred to go to ground after vermin. Fearless, quick, and not built to back down.
Gets on with
- ChildrenHigh
- Other dogsModerate
- StrangersModerate
- CatsLow
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 1+ hour daily. Active exercise with opportunities to run and play.
- Grooming
- Hand-stripping 2-3 times yearly. Regular brushing between groomings.
- Drool
- Low
- Coat
- Wiry, Dense, Double coatBlack and Tan, Grizzle and Tan
- In a flat
- Can work, with enough exercise outside it.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Lens Luxation
Severe
Eye condition where lens becomes displaced
Allergies
Moderate
Skin allergies to environmental factors and foods
Epilepsy
Moderate
Seizure disorder that can be managed with medication
Where they come from
History
One of the oldest surviving terrier breeds, originating in Wales over 200 years ago. Bred to hunt badgers, otters, and foxes. Previously called the Old English Terrier and Black and Tan Wire Haired Terrier.
- Charlie · John F. Kennedy's Welsh Terrier who was one of several dogs at the Kennedy White House
Similar breeds
All breeds
Sealyham Terrier
Once a favourite of Hollywood stars, this Welsh working terrier is now an uncommon sight.
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American Hairless Terrier
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Australian Terrier
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Norfolk Terrier
The ears reveal the difference: Norfolk Terriers have folded ears, while Norwich Terriers have upright ones.
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