Sealyham Terrier Information

Sealyham Terrier History

The Sealyham Terrier originates from Sealyham, Wales, where, between 1850 and 1891, Captain John Edwards developed a dog from what may have been crosses between Corgis, various terriers, and possibly even some hounds. Edwards created his breed for bravery and stamina, eventually his dogs became renowned for hunting otter, fox and badger. The AKC officially recognized the Sealyham Terrier as a breed in 1911.

Sealyham Terrier Temperament

Sealyham Terriersare an alert, lively and playful dog that has determination and courage. Sealyhams display the typical terrier temperament and are an active, independent and feisty dog. Sealyhams are a very territorial dog, they will actively defend the home and most are aggressive towards other dogs. Sealyham Terriers will get along with household pets that they are raised with, but care must be taken with small pets like rodents or rabbits since they dog might view them as prey. Sealyham Terriers are usually wary and aloof around strangers. Sealyhams may be a difficult dog to obedience train due to their independent nature. They are also a dog that likes to bark and dig in the backyard after real or imaginary prey. The exercise needs of this dog are moderate and a brisk daily walk will suffice. These dogs generally make good family pets and do well with older children, since they do not tolerate rough handling or teasing.

Sealyham Terrier Appearance

Sealyhams are a small, robust dog that usually weighs between 20 to 25 pounds and stand 10 to 11 inches at the withers. They have folded ears, a beard around the mouth and a small tail that is always held in an upright position. Sealyhams have a dense double coat that comes in colours that vary from white, white with lemon, brown, and blue.

Sealyham Terrier Grooming

Since Sealyham Terriers have a double coat, every few months it needs to be hand stripped or clipped to keep it from getting too shaggy. If you are unwilling to do this, the dog must be taken to a professional groomer. Routine maintenance is a weekly brushing and frequent cleaning of it's beard to remove trapped food. Sealyhams are considered a low shedding breed that might be a good choice for an individual that suffers from dog allergies.

Sealyham Terrier Life Expectancy and Health Problems

Sealyhams are a healthy breed. Some diseases seen in this breed are; deafness, skin allergies and vonWillebrand's Disease (a blood clotting disorder). The average lifespan of this breed is 11 to 13 years.

Sealyham Terrier Pros and Cons

This simplified list may help you decide if a Sealyham Terrier might be a good fit for your lifestyle.

Do You Want

• a small, active dog?
• a dog that makes an effective watchdog?
• a dog that is considered low shedding and might be good for people that suffer from dog allergies?

Do You NOT Want

• a dog that barks a lot?
• a dog that isn't a good pet for small children?
• a dog that digs a lot?
• a territorial dog that can be dog aggressive?
• a dog that is willful and can be difficult to obedience train?

Useful Sealyham Terrier Links

The Sealyham Terrier Club of Canada

The Midland Sealyham Terrier Club UK

The American Sealyham Terrier Club