SUNDAY DOGS

The WELSH TERRIER is (obviously) a Welsh breed of dog originally bred for hunting fox, rodents and badger, but during the last century it has mainly been bred for showing.  Despite this, it has retained its terrier strength of character.  The Welsh Terrier originates from Wales and has been claimed to be the oldest existing dog breed in the UK according to research.  It was a late comer to the British show ring (being primarily a working dog) and was not officially registered as a breed until the 19th century.  It is currently on the UK Kennel Clubs list of breeds that are in danger of dying out, having as few as 300 or so pups registered annually, as compared to the nation's most popular breeds that are registered in the tens of thousands each year.

It is coloured tan on the head, legs and underbelly while having a black or sometimes grizzle saddle.  This is not always the case with female terriers as they are sometimes a simple darker tan all over.  It is a sturdy breed and a compact dog of about medium size.  The tail was usually docked until this was prohibited in the United Kingdom in 2006, being preferred in order to complete the image of a square dog, as tall as it is long.  The body shape is rectangular, with elongated "brick-like" face.  This shape is formed by the whiskers and beard.  With pedigrees the face can take a more oval shape and be finer boned and more distinct.

The Welsh Terrier has a typical terrier temperament.  In the right hands it is a happy, lively and seldom shy or timid but but sometimes can have an attitude.  It is generally good with people and dogs but when a challenge is perceived, it will not back down. Dogs of this breed can be devoted friends and can function either as city dogs or as country dogs.

Welsh Terriers were developed to hunt independently and this required that they be very assertive and stoic dogs.  As a consequence, developing obedience in a Welsh Terrier is a long term proposition and one has to constantly work on and reinforce the training.  They rank 53rd in Stanly Coren's "The Intelligence of Dogs", being of average working/obedience intelligence.  This, however, does not mean they fail to learn or understand commands, just that they tend to make their own decisions; thus the need for constant reinforcement.  When acting on their own, they are quite creative and quick in decision making.  They also have the potential for excessive barking and like other terrier breeds, they enjoy digging.  (They would be two traits that would put me right off this dog much as I love its shape and its looks.  Who couldn't just love this face?).

A Welsh Terrier is full of energy and requires regular excersie.  A run around the yard during the day is insufficient.  They become yappy, and if bored, they may explore and potentially cause mischief and damage.  They need a challenge to keep them entertained.  They love chasing toys and love to swim (i.e. lake activities with their families).

They get along well with children; they love to play and follow a child as it plays, however they will often tug at pant legs and can knock young ones off their feet.  If they are around young children at an early age, they will easily learn to play more gently.

As with all breeds, it is important to socialise Welsh Terriers as early as possible with a wide range of dogs, people and experiences.

(Much as I love these 'square' dogs I doubt I would have the patience to own one of these.  Phil saw these pics and says this Welsh Terrier looks like a miniature Airedale and I guess it does.)

Once again thanks to Wikipedia for the information but the pictures were found free on the internet.  Once again Wikipedia says some clarification could be needed but as these dogs have been around for such a long time I would think the information here would be correct.