GROUP 2 - TERRIERS

History

The breed was developed between 1850 and 1891 by Captain John Edwardes, at Sealyham House, near Wolfscastle in the Welsh county of Pembrokeshire. Originally the breed was used for pest control, to hunt small game, and to eliminate vermin, particularly badgers, which he usually relocated. The Welsh Corgi, Fox Terrier (Wire), and the now extinct English White Terrier all played a part in the makeup of the Sealyham  although Edwardes did not keep records. He wanted a small white dog with a strong jaw, and a wiry coat. The white coat was particularly prized, as it meant that the hunter in the field could distinguish the dogs from the quarry. 1.

Appearance

Sealyham Terriers have a white double coat which requires regular brushing with a wire comb in order to prevent matting. It has a dense undercoat, while the outer coat is wiry and weather resistant.

Markings on the face can be in a variety of colours including lemon, black, brown, blue, and badger, which is a mix of brown and black. Heavy body markings or patches or excessive ticking on the coat are discouraged Sealyhams are low to the ground, and in muddy weather their long coats can become quite dirty. Sealyham coats are groomed by hand stripping, in order to keep the coat from becoming too soft. 1.

Sizes: Ideal weight: Dogs approx. 9 kgs (20 lbs). Bitches approx. 8 kgs (18 lbs). Height: should not exceed 31 cms (12 ins) at shoulder. 2.

Temperament 

Although happy in the company of others, they are fine if left alone. Sealyham Terriers are suited for both the town and country. They can be stubborn, vocal, and boisterous but also full of personality.

While they make for loyal family companions, they can be trained to be working dogs, making them excellent mousers or ratters. They can also be taught as a puppy to get along with other animals, including cats and birds. 1.

Suitability & Maintenance

The long, profuse, double, weather resisting coat needs regular combing right down to the skin. The coat on the back can be stripped or clipped, and grooming must be done on a regular basis.

If your Sealyham Terrier becomes overweight, he can develop back problems. Be sure to monitor his food intake and give him regular exercise to keep him in shape.

Sealyhams have a wonderful sense of humour and are always ready to play. Because they were bred to hunt in a pack, they typically gets along well with other dogs in the home, as well as people. Although loyal and affectionate with their families, Sealyham Terriers can be a bit reserved around strangers and therefore make good watchdogs. Their bark is surprisingly loud and deep, but they can be trained to be quiet on command. They are fond of chasing rabbits, birds, and even other dogs and cats. Be sure to keep your Sealyham Terrier on leash when he’s not in a secure area.

Although Sealyham Terriers do well outdoors when it’s cool (they don’t like heat), they should be kept in your house when you can’t supervise them.

Sealyham Terriers are happy little dogs, but they can have a dominant personality if not kept in check by a firm, consistent master. Successfully training them requires firm, consistent handling. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as food rewards, praise, and play. All Terriers are rambunctious, even the laidback Sealyham. This breed is best suited to families with older children who understand how to handle and interact with dogs. Sealies are generally good with other pets, including cats, especially if they’re raised with them, however, they can be aggressive toward dogs they don’t know. 3.

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Sealyham Terrier and have decided this is the dog for you, or you would like more information, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Sealyham Terrier and its needs and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.

References

1. Wikipedia.org
2. DOGSAUSTRALIA.org.au
3. Tom Horner - English Author & Judge.
   
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