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Welsh Terrier

Welsh Terrier is a medium terrier breed from Wales also known as Welshie, Welsh Ter.

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Breed overview

Welsh Terrier is a medium terrier breed from Wales also known as Welshie, Welsh Ter.

One of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in Wales in the 1760s for hunting foxes, otters, and badgers. Originally called the 'Old English Terrier' or 'Black-and-Tan Wire Haired Terrier' before being renamed Welsh Terrier.

People looking into Welsh Terrier usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 20–21 lbs • 15–15.5 in.

WelshieWelsh Ter

History and origin

Welsh Terrier is tied to originating from Wales, specifically Welsh valleys, with sources often placing its development around 1760 CE.

Welsh Terrier is described here as placed in the terrier group and marked as an established breed.

One of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in Wales in the 1760s for hunting foxes, otters, and badgers. Originally called the 'Old English Terrier' or 'Black-and-Tan Wire Haired Terrier' before being renamed Welsh Terrier.

Browse dog breeds from Wales Browse more terrier breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
terrier
Size
Medium
Origin country
Wales
Region
Welsh valleys
Origin year
1760 CE
Weight
20–21 lbs
Height
15–15.5 in
Lifespan
13–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Welsh Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

WiryDenseHard

Welsh Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Compact, well-balanced terrier build
  • Hard, wiry coat in black and tan pattern
  • Rectangular head with beard and mustache
  • Small, dark, almond-shaped eyes with keen expression

What this breed is known for

  • One of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in Wales in the 1760s for hunting foxes, otters, and badgers. Originally called the 'Old English Terrier' or 'Black-and-Tan Wire Haired Terrier' before being renamed Welsh Terrier.
  • Often called a 'miniature Airedale' due to their similar coloring and coat texture, though they developed independently. They're considered calmer and more even-tempered than many other terrier breeds.
  • President John F. Kennedy owned a Welsh Terrier named Charlie who lived in the White House. The breed has also been owned by royalty including the Duke of Windsor and continues to be popular among celebrities.

Health and care notes

Welsh Terrier is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Allergies
  • Epilepsy

Coat details: Wiry, Dense, Hard

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Welsh Terrier come from?

Welsh Terrier is closely associated with Wales, especially Welsh valleys in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Welsh Terrier get?

Typical size details for Welsh Terrier on this page are 20–21 lbs, 15–15.5 in, 13–15 years.

What is the Welsh Terrier known for?

One of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in Wales in the 1760s for hunting foxes, otters, and badgers. Originally called the 'Old English Terrier' or 'Black-and-Tan Wire Haired Terrier' before being renamed Welsh Terrier.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Welsh Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.