Welsh Terrier - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin

You can probably guess where the Welsh Terrier originated – in the heart of Wales in the 1700s. They were bred for hunt, especially for fox, badger and otter hunt. We are not sure, what are the ancestors of the Welsh Terrier, but it might be the Old English Black and Tan Terrier.

2) Lakeland and Airedale

The Welsh Terrier, Lakeland Terrier and Airedale Terrier are very similar. All are probably ancestors of the Old English Black and Tan Terrier, which is the reason why they are so similar. The Welsh Terrier is little bit bigger than the Lakeland and definitely a lot smaller than the Airedale – which is the largest of all terriers.

3) Not a Typical Terrier

It is true, that they have typical terrier characterists, like independent mind, they have tons of energy and they are pretty courageous. But, on the other hand, Welsh Terriers are much more sensitive than other Terriers. They like to hang out with their family and relax with them and they enjoy attention a lot. I would say that Welsh Terriers are more friendlier overall, than the typical terriers.

4) Exercise needs

Welshies need a lot of exercise, they want to move and run. Daily longer walks are must, but they will be happiest, if they have a place – yard or a garden – where they can burn off the energy. They can definitely live indoors, but you will need to make sure they have enough activity, otherwise, they might be little bit destructive.

5) Climbing

For some reason, Welsh Terriers often times like to climb to higher spots, like chairs or tables. They are also pretty good at climbing over the fence and they are very good escape artists. If they can not climb over the fence, they will try to dig under it. That is why you must have good fence which is burried several inches bellow the ground.

6) Size

The Welsh Terrier is medium sized dog, you can find some larger and some smaller terriers. On average, their high is around 15 inches, which is 38 inches. Their weight should be around 22 pounds, which is 10 kg. Females are most often little bit smaller than that.

7) Training

Welsh Terriers are smart and bright, which makes them capable of learning a lot of tricks and commands. But they are also typical terriers, which means they have independent mind. And honestly, independent dogs are never pushovers to train. That is why you must be absolutely persistent and patient when training and it is better to keep the training sessions shorter to properly entertain the dog.

8) On Leash

Welsh Terriers are hunters with high prey drive. That is why, they should be most of the time on leash, because when they see some smaller prey, they will most likely run after it and ignore all your voice commands. This is also a reason why they are not the best partners for smaller household pets.

9) Coat

Welshies are known for their beautiful black and tan coat. They are doublecoated dogs with soft undercoat and harsh outercoat. Great thing about the coat is, that it is waterproof. They are not big shedders, but you should brush them regularly.

10) Health

This is pretty healthy dog breed with good lifespan – between 13 to 15 years. But just like all dogs, they do suffer from some healht issues, the most common would be epilepsy, thyroid disease, glaucoma and skin allergies.