The Welsh Terrier of Wales was indeed bred for a serious purpose, hunting down otters and badgers. Cut to the present time, they seem to be a reverse of a ferocious attacker, all because of their happy-go-lucky, delightful nature. A famous participant in the show ring, their number in the United Kingdom is on the decline of late with only 3000 pups registered yearly.
This gregarious breed displays friendliness when it comes to mingling with humans. However, since they had a history of being independent hunters, they often tend to have their own will.
These adorable dogs have a celebrity status since they were owned by eminent personalities like John F. Kennedy, Clement Attlee, and King Edward III. They also made their way into films and novels like Mel of the animated film Balto, and Emily from the novel Money for Nothing.
The Welsh terrier’s existence came into being
It gradually gained popularity in other parts of England, besides Wales
Recognized by England’s Kennel Club
Imported to the United States and recognized by AKC as its 45th breed
Formation of the Welsh Terrier Club of America as AKC’s member club
The Welsh Terrier established its position in the United States
Though small in size, the Welsh Terrier is high on energy, needing at least an hour’s exercise each day. Take them out on one or two 20-minute walks each day to a nearby park or anywhere else where they have new things and smells to explore. They possess a high prey drive inclining to get after anything in motion. So a leash is a mandate whenever you take them out away from your home.
Also, make provisions for them to run around in a fenced yard or garden if you have one. Introduce interesting games like flying disc catching or ball playing to give them immense pleasure. When you cannot take them out, arrange for innovative games indoors to keep them engaged.
Involve them in dog sports like Barn Hunt and Earth Dog to channelize their energy well.
The double-coated Welsh Terrier has a hard, wiry topcoat, fitting into its body like a jacket, alongside a short and soft undercoat. Brush its hair two to three times a week using a pin pad brush and then comb thoroughly using a metal comb.
You could leave its coat long during the winter months; else clip it after every 8 to 12 weeks. If you are not clipping its coat, strip it three to four times in a year to remove dead hair and avoid matting. The clipping and stripping could be done at home, or you may even seek a professional’s help in this regard.
Trim its nails weekly, brush its teeth twice a week, and at the same time also clean its ears and eyes or a routine basis.
The active, energetic Welsh Terriers need their daily dose of proteins and other essential nutrients. So giving them good quality dry dog food, homemade or readymade, is a must. If you provide store-manufactured food, Taste of the Wild and Hill’s Science would be the preferred option.
Welsh Terrier won’t be too challenging to train, save their independent nature and stubbornness that could get better with obedience training. These dogs hold the 101st rank in The Intelligence of Dogs by Stanley Coren. Though they mingle fabulously with their human companions, the Welsh Terrier might have a problem adjusting with other dogs. So, socializing them since their puppy days would help these dogs stay peacefully with other canines too.
