History of the Welsh Terrier

The Welsh have had purebred strains of dogs for more than 1,000 years. In its native Wales, the terrier was referred to as "daeargi", which means "dog."  Historians believe that the Welsh Terrier is one of the oldest pure bred terriers; evidence indicates that he has changed very little from the all round working terrier developed several hundreds of years ago in the high mountains and hidden valleys of Wales.

The Welshman wanted his dog to have strength and stamina with a calm disposition so he could trust it as a companion and guardian of the children or kennel it safely with other dogs. For its own protection, it had to have a rugged constitution and a weather-resistant coat. How the dog looked was less important than how useful and sturdy it was. From the beginning, the Welsh was a balanced, compact dog with no exaggeration of size or features, strength combined with small size was desired and developed. A surprisingly good ability to scent game was also an important part of the Welsh character which increased its value as a working terrier.

The breed was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1885, but pressure by breeders of the Black and Tan resulted in its classification as "Welsh Terrier or Old English Wire- haired Black and Tan Terrier." The Welsh's supporters formed a club in 1886 and in the following year, they succeeded on getting "Black and Tan" dropped from classification.

Feldstead Kennel in Neath, South Wales, was important in producing the modern Welsh Terrier. Begun in 1927 by H. Snow, Feldstead quickly became synonymous with good color, excellent coats, correct cobbiness, and the "Feldstead look" that is their trademark: the pleasing head and front piece that correctly presents the workman-like terrier as an attractive show dog. In many pedigrees the Feldstead Kennel name appears quite often.

The first Welsh Terriers were imported to the United States by Prescott Lawrence in 1888. Their names were T'Other and Which, and they were shown at the Old Madison Square Garden Show in the Miscellaneous group. In 1900 the Welsh Terrier Club of America was formed, and in 1901 the Welsh was given a separate classification for exhibition.

The Welsh Terrier Today

Often described as the least quarrelsome of the Terriers, the Welsh has all the gaiety, fire and courage of a true terrier combined with the common sense and dignity of the larger working breeds. As a result of this happy blending of temperaments makes them easy to train as well as suitable as a family companion or children's pet.

They're affectionate dogs who have outgoing natures but who are reserved around strangers, who make brave watchdogs. Welsh Terriers are a game dog-alert, aware, spirited however at the same time, they are friendly and shows self control. Welsh Terriers have a desire to please which is evident in their attitude.

• Height: 14 - 15.5 inches
• Weight: 20 - 21 lbs
• Welsh Terrier Colors: Black and tan; also black, grizzle and tan.
• Coat: Abundant, wiry, hard and close.
• Temperament: Welsh Terriers are active, playful
• With Children: Yes, usually patient with children.
• With Pets: Yes, if socialized from a young age not to chase.
• Special Skills: Hunting dog and family pet
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Living Environment: An apartment is adequate if daily exercise is provided.
• Health Issues: Free of major hereditary health problems.
• Care and Exercise: Brush the Welsh Terrier three times per week, bathe when necessary. Regularly trimming of their coat is needed if showing, preferably by hand-stripping. Regular daily exercise, on or off the leash. Welsh Terriers enjoy a game of ball or a run in the countryside.
• Training: Welsh Terriers needs basic obedience training to make them an enjoyable companion. Give them a constant variety and remain consistent as they will try to divert you from your intentions.