The Welsh Terrier is one of the rarest terrier breeds in the world. Its roots could go back to the Celts. In recent decades, its task has changed from hunting to companion dog. The intelligent small dogs are lovable family members but place high demands on their owners when it comes to education and workload. If you can and want to do this, you have a loyal, robust companion at your side!

Profile Welsh Terrier

Old breed with a modern orientation

Among historians, the origin of the Welsh Terrier is hotly debated. Many experts believe that the “Welshie” goes directly back to the dogs of the Celts. During the invasion of the Roman soldiers, the Celts retreated to the Welsh mountains. They had their black-brown, robust dogs with them. In the following centuries, these early terriers took on the task of keeping houses and farms free of rats, foxes and badgers. To this day, the Welsh Terrier is closely associated with Wales. Unfortunately, the number of breeders has steadily decreased. Finding a puppy is like looking for a needle in a haystack.

The character of the Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier is an intelligent, affectionate and cooperative dog. He brings – unusual for a terrier – a high degree of “Will to please”. This and his willingness to bond closely with his humans make the Welshie an easy dog to train. He loves to be part of a family and develops a noticeable guard and protective instinct. Most dogs of this breed are very vigilant and loudly report every visitor. They are reserved and skeptical towards strangers, but usually not aggressive. However, if their own humans are threatened, this little terrier will not shy away from defending them. A Welshie does not know fear. Good socialization and consistent training are important in order to steer the independence of the compact terriers in the right direction.

Education and keeping of the Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier is everything – but a bore. Despite its handy size, it needs a lot of exercise. If it is really busy, a Welshie will feel comfortable even in a city apartment. However, a house with a garden should meet its needs to watch more. These terriers are endurance runners and also cut a fine figure as companions when cycling, jogging or riding.

There is one aspect to consider with the Welshie when it comes to free range: hunting is in its blood. From the very beginning, make sure that your terrier has no way to ignore your recall and go hunting. It is best to lead your young dog on a tow leash until you can be sure that he is available at all times.

In addition to physical activity, the Welsh Terrier needs tasks for the head and nose. He is enthusiastic about pretty much everything – be it dog frisbee, agility, dummy work or mantrailing. When it comes to dog tricks, the smart four-legged friend can really shine and earn your praise.

Caring for the Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier has a rough topcoat and dense undercoat. The trim coat must be professionally trimmed several times a year. Regular brushing is indispensable for the undercoat. So well-groomed, the dashing terrier hardly sheds at all in the house. For the robust dogs, hardly any breed-typical diseases are known. With a suitable diet and plenty of exercise, Welsh Terriers can live up to 13 years.

Also check out these smaller terrier species:

• Cairn Terrier: The Scots have a heart for terriers and bred the Cairn Terrier in addition to other breeds. The dog should be versatile, attentive, courageous and yet friendly to its own family. The fuzzy Scotsman meets all these requirements and convinces with a successful mix.
•  Jack Russell Terrier: He is small, nimble and inspires with his droll nature: The Jack Russell Terrier is a charming clown and extremely smart. This should not hide the fact that the little dog needs consistent training and an experienced owner.
• Manchester Terrier: The Manchester Terrier is considered one of the most original British dog breeds. His passion and task was rat hunting. To this day, this hunting instinct is in his blood, which is why the elegant, black-brown terrier needs a very good education.
• Norfolk Terrier: The Norfolk Terrier makes an incredibly sympathetic first impression with its wavy, long fur and funny face. It lasts just long enough until the terrier discovers a cat and rushes away chasing away despite all calls.
• Norwich Terrier: The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest terrier breeds. In recent decades, it has developed from a hunting dog to a family and companion dog. Nevertheless – the terrier heritage cannot be denied: The Norwich Terrier is up for any fun.
• Parson Russell Terrier: Are you looking for a sporty and cheerful dog, are you an active person, maybe with a family and children? If you also have a little dog experience, then the Parson Russell Terrier is your ideal candidate.
• Patterdale Terrier: With a Patterdale Terrier by your side, life with a dog never gets boring! The lively four-legged friends bring all their energy and joie de vivre into an active everyday life. After a long day in the fresh air and lots of exercise, they enjoy time with their family.
• West Highland White Terrier: In the 1990s, the West Highland White Terrier became a fashion dog. The snow-white fuzzy head with the button eyes became a popular family companion. But hand on heart: It’s also hard not to fall in love with the Westie.
•  Yorkshire Terrier: Cute button eyes flash out from under the bow, which don’t miss anything. That’s how you know the Yorkshire Terrier from TV. You could think of him as a cuddly toy, but far from it: The Yorkshire Terrier is an agile action dog with a strong character.