Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier, hailing from Wales in the UK, has a similar ancestor with the Lakeland terrier. Naturally, both breeds also share a number of traits. There may be stories on how the Welshie came to be. The exact origin of this dog breed is largely still a mystery. It is speculated that it may be a direct link to the Old English black and tan. Another is that it may have been brought by the Celts fleeing Roman invaders.

In the 1800s, this canine was known as the Caernarvonshire Welsh terrier, which took on the role of a vermin hunter. This workmanlike terrier was bred for this role and excelled in it. Despite this, it only received recognition as a distinct dog breed in the UK in 1885. The breed is recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK.

Although the Welsh Terrier is not as combative as other terrier breeds, its numbers dwindled in the UK. To this day, the Welshie is still on vulnerable status as very few have been registered with the Kennel Club. It has been reported that only about three hundred Welsh terrier puppies are registered with the KC yearly.

A medium-sized pooch, the Welsh Terrier dog’s height is approximately 39 cm for both male and female. It weighs anywhere between 9 and 10.5 kg.

The Welshie’s rectangular body is sturdy and compact. It has a rather flat-at-the-top, brick-like head and face, topped with ears that flop forward and toward its cheeks. Its eyes are small, dark, and alert. Its stop is subtle and punctuated by a black nose. It has a powerful jaw with a clean scissor bite, which allows it to capture its vermin target effectively.

The Welshie's chest is wide and its back is muscular yet short. However, its loins and back legs are strong, which are also coupled with muscular thighs. The tail is typically carried upright in a jaunty way, thus enhancing its happy look. The feet are small and round, making them look feline-like.

The two-layered coat of the Welsh Terrier is wiry and hard, lying closely to its body. The colours accepted by the KC are black and tan. As a puppy, a Welshie is born with a black coat until it turns a year old. After that first year, the coat colour starts turning into the standard black and tan.

Very affectionate, loyal, lively, outgoing, and clever, the Welsh Terrier forms a solid bond with its humans. As such, it loves family life and to get involved in the activities of its household.

Although it may have the usual terrier temperament, the Welshie is not known to be aggressive even with strangers. It is more laid-back than the other types. It prefers to keep its distance until it finally gets to know them. However, in true terrier fashion, it will not back down when threatened.

This spirited dog breed is intelligent, has a high prey drive, and is prompt with its bark. Although it may have a stubborn streak, it is eager to please its human. As such, it makes a good watchdog. However, it should be kept on a lead when going on walks.

As is the nature of terriers, the Welshie also likes to dig and explore. As such, homes with yards must be securely fenced. This is to prevent this canine from escaping.

A good family pet, this earth dog should be trained and socialised at an early age. This is to ensure that it develops into a well-balanced pooch. First-time dog owners may also find the Welshie a suitable companion provided that the owner can provide for this animal’s needs. Also, it is best kept as the only dog in the family as it is not tolerant of other canines in the home.

A Welshie puppy should be fed 3–4 times daily. It should be fed 113 g–174 g of food from ages 2–6 months, depending on its size and activity level. At eight months old, it may be fed 117 g–137 g of food. From 8–10 months, it is best to feed it 117 g–137 g daily. Once it reaches thirteen months, it may be offered adult food.

For an adult Welsh Terrier, feed about 125 g–144 g for those weighing 9 kg. Those tipping the scales at 9.5 kg can be given 130 g–150 g of food.

• Skin allergies
• Paroxysmal dyskinesia
• Primary lens luxation
• Masticatory muscle myositis

A pedigreed Welsh Terrier puppy may cost at £650 to £950. When acquiring one, registering interest with a breeder is required as this dog is not commonplace. You are likely to be put on a waitlist.

Insurance expenses can cost £20 (basic) to £43 (lifetime) monthly. Good-quality food costs can range from £20 to £30 every month. Veterinary expenses, including vaccinations, health checks, and spaying/neutering may reach £800 annually.

Overall, the average expense in caring for a Welshie is about £50–£80 each month. This is dependent on the insurance coverage. Overall, lifetime cost estimates can range from £7,200 to £12,480 (12–13 years).