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What are Welsh Terriers like? |
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| Welsh Terriers stand approximately 14–16" at the shoulder and usually weigh between 18 and 25 pounds. They are
black and tan in color, or the black may be mixed with rust or gray. The coat
can range from dense and wiry to soft and curly. The terrier temperament may not suit everyone. These dogs are alert, intelligent, playful, energetic, and adaptable. They also can be stubborn, independent, curious, protective of their territory and their people, or even shy or aggressive in unusual situations. They may challenge your authority; they can have great imaginations and are very inventive. They may have a tendency to dig, for they were bred to "go to earth." Welsh do best when training and obedience are approached as something fun to do together. As with most terriers, harsh or aggressive training will only make a Welsh Terrier more aggressive. We often get applicants who have cats, and sometimes pets like gerbils, rabbits, etc. Welsh Terriers were originally bred to hunt and kill small animals. Unless a WT has been raised with a cat, he or she will probably regard cats and other small animals as prey. There are training techniques that can result in a successful tolerance, but we don't like to rely on that happening when placing a dog. And we don't think you should trust a Welsh Terrier with a rodent or rabbit. We would also recommend caution before introducing a WT into a home with pet birds, especially if the birds are allowed to fly freely throughout the house. A bird that accidentally gets onto the floor could also be perceived as prey. Welsh need regular grooming to look their best, to keep the coat under control and the skin healthy. The coats of non-showing Welshies are often 'clippered', either by a professional groomer or by the owner (it's not hard to learn). Well-groomed Welsh do not shed.
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