Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Origin
The Sealyham Terrier was developed in Sealyham, Haverfordwest, Wales, on the estate of Captain John Edwardes. In 1850, Captain Edwardes began a breeding program with the intention of creating the perfect terrier – fearless, courageous and quick. Although the exact ancestry of the Sealyham Terrier is unknown, it is believed the original dogs were white-haired terriers that were crossed with some combination of the Dandie Dinmont, West Highland Terrier, Cheshire Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier, Pembroke Welsh Corgi and/or Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Size
The Sealyham Terrier weighs 18 to 24 pounds and measures 10.5 to 12 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Sealyham Terrier has a medium-length, wiry coat that sheds very little. The Sealyham Terrier should be brushed twice a week and bathed occasionally. If being shown, the Sealyham Terrier also needs to be hand stripped several times a year; otherwise they can be clipped or trimmed.
Like all dogs, the Sealyham Terrier also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Sealyham Terrier is charming and easygoing.
Temperament
The Sealyham Terrier was bred to be a hardy, determined hunter. However, today’s Sealyham Terrier is better described as calm and relaxed. The Sealyham Terrier can be lively and self-willed, but is among the most laidback of terrier breeds. In fact, some would label the Sealyham Terrier as a couch potato.
The Sealyham Terrier adores their family and craves attention from them. This breed is highly confident and proud, and believes attention is due to them at all times. The Sealyham Terrier wants to be treated like an equal member of the family, not as a servant or pet. Their privileged attitude typically comes off as more humorous than anything else.
While fairly even tempered, the Sealyham Terrier is a deeply devoted companion and quick to protect their family. They are aloof with new people and other dogs as well as highly alert to their surroundings. Sealyham Terriers are friendly, but can make effective watchdogs.
Training Needs
The Sealyham Terrier is stubborn, but wants to please and is generally obedient. The Sealyham Terrier responds best to a firm, but gentle leader and soaks up positive reinforcement, especially in the form of treats. Once they understand the basics, Sealyham Terriers can be great participants in earthdog trials.
As part of their training, Sealyham Terriers also need early socialization. They can be possessive of toys and food, suspicious of strangers and assertive toward other dogs if not well socialized.
Activity Level
The Sealyham Terrier has a moderate activity level and just needs a brisk daily walk to meet their exercise needs. They should also have regular time outside in a secure area to run around and play.
