The Welsh Terrier is an all-round hunt terrier originating in Wales, UK, where it was bred to hunt fox, otter and badger and was often used by hunts, running alongside hounds.
These sturdy medium-sized dogs are similar in appearance to the Airedale Terrier, only smaller. They have a smart, compact body, with a rectangular-shaped head, small dark eyes and V-shaped ears which fold slightly forward. They have a double coat, with a soft undercoat and a tough wiry outer coat, bushy eyebrows, moustache and beard. The coat is typically black and tan. Welsh Terriers are very upbeat dogs, full of the joys of life. They are friendly, playful and sometimes mischievous, with an energy and spirit which is contagious. They are super family dogs, making affectionate and fun playmates for children, which will relish endless games in the garden. They do well with other dogs, particularly with good early socialisation but are less suitable for housing with cats and other small household pets due to their strong prey drive. Welsh Terriers love getting out for lots of walks and like to be busy around the home. They thrive on human company and interaction, and a lonely, bored or under-exercised Welsh Terrier can be destructive, given to digging and excessive barking. Welsh Terriers like to live life to the full and the ideal owner is someone who can match their zest for life.
History
The Welsh Terrier was bred to hunt foxes, otter and badger in the Welsh countryside. Its versatility also saw it used by hunts to run alongside the hounds. Originally known as the Welsh Black and Tan Rough Coated Terrier, in its development are the Irish Terrier, Airedale and Lakeland Terrier.
