Sealyham Terrier
Quick Summary
Sturdy, alert terriers best suited for active owners who appreciate their hunting heritage. Ideal for those committed to regular grooming and training. Perfect blend of watchdog and companion.
Contents
Weight Range
23-24 lbs
♂ Male: 23-24 lbs
♀ Female: 20-22 lbs
Height Range
27-27 inches
♂ Male: 11-11"
♀ Female: 11-11"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in Wales during the 19th century by Captain John Edwards, these terriers excelled at hunting badgers, otters, and foxes in the Welsh countryside
Popularity
#164
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 10.5"-10.5" |
| Female Height | 10.5"-10.5" |
| Male Weight | 23-24 lbs |
| Female Weight | 20-22 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1500-2500), supplies, and medical expenses. Monthly costs cover quality food, grooming ($50-70), and preventive healthcare. Emergency funds recommended for potential health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and outgoing terriers with a distinctive sense of humor. Moderate energy levels require regular exercise. Generally good with family but may show typical terrier stubbornness. Excellent watchdogs with strong protective instincts.
Social Needs
Moderately social dogs requiring regular human interaction. Generally good with other dogs but may need early socialization. Can tolerate alone time if properly trained and exercised.
Breed Overview
Sealyham Terriers showcase a distinctive white coat and muscular build, standing 10.5 inches at the shoulder. Their powerful jaws and strong neck reflect their hunting heritage, while their long, broad head features dark eyes and folded ears. These sturdy terriers combine an alert, outgoing personality with a charming sense of humor, making them both capable workers and delightful companions.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Good with families
- ✓ Alert watchdog
- ✓ Minimal shedding
- ✓ Adaptable to various homes
Cons
- ✗ Regular grooming needed
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ May chase small animals
- ✗ Requires experienced handling
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Alert, Outgoing, Sense Of Humor |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and terrier-specific activities. Moderate intensity level suits their energy, with mental stimulation through tracking or digging games essential for their well-being.
Diet & Nutrition
Feed 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Consider breed-specific formulas for terriers. Monitor weight closely as they can become overweight. Special attention to dental health through appropriate food choices.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose age-appropriate formulas with high-quality protein. Monitor caloric intake to prevent weight gain. Fresh water always available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal for homes with secure yards. Tolerates various climates but needs protection from extreme heat due to their dense coat.
Adaptable to various living spaces, including apartments, provided they receive adequate exercise. Ideal setting includes a secure yard. Shows good adaptability to both urban and suburban environments.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Welsh captain John Edwards meticulously developed the Sealyham Terrier in the mid-1800s at Sealyham House, Pembrokeshire. The breed combined the talents of various terriers to create an expert hunter of small game.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Wales during the 19th century by Captain John Edwards, these terriers excelled at hunting badgers, otters, and foxes in the Welsh countryside.
Fun Fact
Despite their tough exterior, Sealyhams are known as the couch potatoes of the terrier world!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular professional grooming needed. Requires consistent training approach. Watch for signs of common health issues. Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts.