Is the Welsh Terrier right for you?
- 1Welsh Terriers are quick little charmers.
- 2The Welsh Terrier is always on the hunt for adventure as an instinctive chaser.
- 3Their dense, wiry coat offers a distinctive look but needs regular brushing.
HISTORY
Hailing from Wales, the Welsh Terrier was bred to hunt badgers, otters, and foxes. A close relative of the Black and Tan and the Old English Terrier, the Welsh Terrier became popular for their exceptional ability to flush small mammals out of their dens by going down and rooting them out.
Quick Facts
Size
Medium
Lifespan
10-12 years old with some that lived to be 15
Hair Length
Medium
Male Height
15-15 1/2 inches high at the withers
Male Weight
18-21 pounds
Female Height
15 inches high at the withers
Female Weight
17-20 pounds
Litter Size
3-6 puppies per litter
Personality
A curious and lively breed, Welsh Terriers are great dogs for an active family. They are great with kids and are always up for a good roughhouse. They also love playing outside or in the water. They should be well socialized and trained to make sure they are safe to be around small animals. They do best with a strong but calm owner who makes the rules clear and does not give them too much wiggle room, otherwise they may begin to think they can disobey you without repercussions. .
Color
The Welsh Terrier's jacket is black, spreading up onto the neck, down onto the tail and into the upper thighs. Their legs, quarters, and head are clear tan, which is a deep reddish brown color. Some have grizzle jackets, as well. White is allowed only as small marks on the front of the breast.
Health Concerns
Welsh Terriers have a normal life expectancy of 10-12 years. Adult Welsh Terriers grow up to a height of 15 inches and weigh almost 20-21 pounds. Common health concerns of Welsh Terriers are:
- skin problems
- eye problems
Appearance
Welsh Terriers look a lot like the more common Airedale Terrier, with the boxy head, wiry top coat, small eyes, and slightly forward facing droopy ears. Their back is flat and their front legs are strong and straight, with little paws. Their angular body gives them an almost rectangular look.