This terrier was originally known as the Black and Tan Wirehaired Terrier, and they hail from Wales. They were brought to the U.S. by Prescott Lawrence in 1888 and have long been valued historically for their tenaciousness as hunters. They are compact (about 15" tall and 20 lbs), but quite sturdy, and extremely eager to find, chase, flush out, and kill prey. The Welsh Terrier's extremely high prey drive could make them problematic with some members of the household (e.g. cats or running children), and also makes them unreliable off-leash. Their distinctive bushy coats and facial hair require regular brushing and grooming, and they require regular, interactive mental and physical exercise in order to stay in top form and stave off boredom.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
