The Welsh Terrier possesses the typical terrier temperament and can be quite a handful for the first time dog owner. He can be feisty, scrappy, prone to barking, and just a wire-haired ball of hyperactive energy. With proper breeding and firm training, though, the Welshie is a very entertaining and devoted companion; they have been known to do well in a variety of settings, including suburban, urban and rural environments. If properly trained, the Welsh Terrier can also be left alone for an extended period of time, while family members go to work or school.
Obedience is a must for this breed and you should start training as soon as possible; be aware of the fact, though, that you will need to be very firm and assertive to get through to the Welshie; they are stubborn, intelligent dogs who will constantly try to manipulate you into doing things their way. You need to give your Welshie a good amount of exercise or all his pent up terrier energy will lead to the destruction of your house; if you don't have a large yard, take him on frequent walks. Welshies make great companions for families who love hiking, biking or spending time doing outdoor activities. Some enjoy swimming, so you might want to include trips to a lake or beach in your list of things to do with your Welshie. It's also a great idea to get him involved in canine competitions, especially Earthdog trials.
They are very playful dogs and love being around children; indeed, they've been used as guardians for kids since they were developed. They are virtually inexhaustible and will spend hours following children or romping around the house with them; they can spend hours romping in general and playing at just about anything. When walking the dog you should keep him on a lead, because he will bolt off after anything that moves; if you have a yard, make sure your fences are high and dug deep into the ground to thwart the Welshie's attempts to escape.
One of the big jobs that a Welshie owner must undertake is the maintenance of the characteristic Welshie coat. If you're simply planning on keeping the dog as a pet, you'll at least have to brush and comb the coat several times a week and pluck it a minimum of three times a year, but this depends on the overall coat condition. If you're planning on showing your dog, you'll need to invest more time and especially resources on his grooming necessities; you'll have to make sure that there is longer hair on the belly, around the face and on the feet, as these furnishings are responsible for giving the Welshie his characteristic look. On the upside, the Welsh Terrier is not a heavy shedder.
|
