Welsh Terrier -
He'll Steal Your Heart!
Background And Description:
The Welsh Terrier is a very old pure breed originating several centuries ago in Wales. Many
authorities believe it is descended from the Old English Black and Tan Wired Haired Terrier.
The Welshie is a game and hardy breed that had the stamina and enthusiasm to run with the pack
hounds during long hunting days in pursuit of otter, fox or badger. They worked in very difficult,
often cold conditions and rocky terrain, in the mountainous regions of North Wales, proving their
toughness and courage over and again. You have to admire the grit of this small dog!
Although they no longer work in their previous occupation, they still retain the spirit for it.
If an unfortunate varmit should happen to stop by your property, they'll be sorry they did.
This is a handsome little dog, compact and sturdy looking, with a very alert expression. They bear
a strong resemblance to the Airedale and Lakeland terriers, though they are a distinctly different
breed.
Appearance:
Appearance: Height: 15-15.5 inches Weight: 20-21 lbs
Color variations: Black/Tan preferred,
and Grizzle
Coat and Care:
The low odor double coat is harsh and wiry on top while soft and fine underneath. Weekly brushing
will keep it tangle free and in smart condition. Stripping is necessary for show dogs, or if you
want to keep the coat at its very best. Low shedding makes it a good candidate for allergy
sufferers to consider.
Personality and Traits:
Welsh Terriers are very easy and fun to live with, being very affectionate, feisty - yet obedient,
and always ready to play.
This dog is a party animal and loves to be around people and go
everywhere. He doesn't like being left alone, but does not make a fuss or bark about it to the
neighbors. When a Welshie barks, it's for a valid reason, not just to hear his own voice! At
least that has been my observation.
Always inquisitive and playful, as well as intelligent,
be can be drawn into training sessions if presented in a fun or gamelike manner.
However, as an owner, you do need to let him know who is the boss or he will happily rule the
roost. He is smart enough to take advantage of any loopholes you've overlooked.
Speaking of loopholes, if he
accidentally gets out of your property, he's hard to catch. Even though he may see you lip-synching
words at him, for some uncanny reason he becomes totally deaf! Go figure.
Although he likes
meeting other dogs and is not aggressive, the Welsh Terrier has a high degree of courage and will
not back down from a confrontation.
Activity Level:
Welshies can be very active and busy for periods of time indoors and then become complete couch
potatoes. But if they haven't been given a walk, that's a different story and they will find a
way to let you know its time to go!
Space Needs:
This breed is very adaptable to any accommodations, although they do like to be outside quite
often and expect to get one, or hopefully two, decent walks a day.
Children:
They really light up around children and enjoy playing games with them. They are tough enough to
handle boisterous activity. The caution still remains that interactions between children and dogs
should always be watched.
Elderly:
The Welsh Terrier is a good breed for the elderly, being an alert watchdog and a faithful
companion.
Reading Recommendations:
Welsh Terrier Leads The WayCovers the dog's unique personality, intelligence and
independence in view of training, and especially obedience. A very interesting and informative
account of the breed, including its roots and history in the people and land of Wales, as well as
his background as an earth dog.
Welsh Terrier (KCB)Covers breed history, characteristics and standard, selection,
feeding, training, health care and behavior of the breed. Also has advice about preparing for a
puppy, housetraining and potential puppy problems. Lots of color photos.
Share Your Welsh Terrier Pictures
Visit
Smilebox.com and create amazing greetings with your dog photos, videos, and music. Email them free.
Welshies have an endearing way of cocking their head when you talk as if they are hanging
on your every word. They're not of course!! But try to catch them in the act for a photo and
you'll have the cutest picture to show off to family and friends.
And, now there is a creative and easy way to pass along these family photo treasures using Smilebox, a system that lets you easily create amazing dog ecards
greetings or invitations, announce a new dog with a slideshow or e-postcard, make dog e-scrapbooks, send
dog e-birthday cards, thank you cards, and much, much more. Use it for family photos and
occasions as well.
Visit Smilebox.com and try this amazing free service today!
Go on, give it a try - you'll be glad you did!
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