Welsh Terrier Breed Profile

The Welsh Terrier was being shown in England in the late 1800s, but it is a much older breed than that in reality. Resembling a miniature Airedale, the Welsh is actually older than the Airedale, and the Welsh's ancestor, the Black and Tan Brokenhaired Terrier, is one of the ancestors of the Airedale as well. The Welsh is one of the three so-called "highlegged" Terriers (though this term may be technically incorrect), along with the Fox Terrier and the Lakeland Terrier, with the Fox being the most extreme of this trio, the Lakeland the most moderate, and the Welsh the so-called "working man." This refers to the sturdiness of the Welsh; he is in fact more bulky than the other two. As well, his color sets him apart: he is either black and tan, or grizzle and tan, but always with the tan being of a deep, rich hue, whereas the Lakeland's tan coloration should be more pale, and the Fox is predominantly white. Like the Lakeland, the Welsh, when working, is used to kill the fox, while the Fox Terrier is used to flush the fox out of the den. The Welsh is quite a serious fellow, and not as quick in response as the Fox. It is a true Terrier and, when raised well, a wonderful companion.

Welsh Terrier Distinguishing Characteristics

Dog with roughly the same outline as the Fox Terrier but less elegant and extreme. Smaller than a Fox Terrier. Sometimes feisty and testy, but slower to respond than the Fox Terrier.