Sealyham Terrier

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Size

Small

Life span

14 Years

Weight

9 Kg

Group

Terrier Dogs

Sealyham Terrier Overview

The Sealyham terrier is a medium-sized terrier with short legs and has a longer-than-tall profile with a strong, flexible body which is an excellent fit in tight areas. The Sealyham terrier has a slightly domed skull which is wide between the ears, square jaw and a black nose. The eyes are dark and round with a set of ears that are carried at the side of the cheek, medium-sized with slightly rounded tip. The teeth are level and form a regular scissor bite with long canines. The neck is long, thick and muscular, well set on an equally muscular shoulder that provides ample support to carry the long head. It has short front legs and deep, muscular thighs powerful enough to support the long and broad chested body. The tail is commonly docked to medium length to compliment the breed’s profile and is normally carried erect. The Sealyham terrier sports a long, hard and wiry topcoat with a weather-resistant undercoat that comes in colours of pure white or white with lemon, brown, blue or badger pied markings on the head and ears.

 

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Sealyham Terrier Characteristics

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Size InformationExercise Needs
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Size InformationChild Friendly
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Size InformationShedding
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Size InformationGrooming Needs
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Size InformationBarking
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Size InformationTrainability
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History & Origin

The Sealyham Terrier originated from Wales and was probably brought here during the 15th century by the ancestors of Captain John Edwardes who is credited for developing the breed. However, the official origin of the breed was in the middle of the 19th century (between 1850 and 1891) and was developed by crossing Basset hounds, bull terriers, the fox terrier, the West Highland white terrier, and the Dandie Dinmont terrier. The name of the Sealyham Terrier is derived from Sealyham, Pembrokeshire the estate of Captain John Edwardes, who developed the breed noted for its prowess in quarrying small game. It was reported that Edwardes hired the services of tenant farmers to raise the Sealyham puppies for them to train. By the age of 11 months, those who have raised a Sealyham that was able to face a fox or badger will receive extra fees. In 1903, the breed was shown to the public for the first time. In 1909, the first Sealyham Terrier's club was formed and the breed was officially recognised in 1910. Today, the Sealyham Terrier is found mainly in England and South Africa and still possesses its natural ability to hunt vermins.

Sealyham Terrier Temperament

The Sealyham Terrier is typically more composed than most terrier breeds but it can still be very energetic and active. This breed loves to investigate and walk around, chasing anything that catches its interest. It also has a profound tendency to bark excessively and dig especially if left alone in the yard. It has an independent character and can be quite stubborn and strong-minded, though it is a loyal and devoted breed that loves its human family. Typically, it is reserved and somewhat aloof towards strangers. Although it can be quite difficult to train, it makes a good watchdog.

Sealyham Terrier Training

Obedience is the foremost training required of the breed, as it is an independent and stubborn breed that requires constant attention. Although it is fairly easy to learn and cope with commands, it has a tendency to challenge the authority of the trainer every now and then. Firm and consistent training is required or it may become a bossy pet.

Grooming

Grooming requirement on the other hand is quite extensive which requires combing the wire coat two to three times a week to prevent matts from forming. Professional trimming or stripping should be done quarterly to maintain shape. This breed sheds little to no hair and is an excellent pet for an owner who lives in an apartment dwelling. It prefers cool climates and will do fine without a yard.

Health

The Sealyham terrier is a robust and healthy breed. Properly maintained and sickness aside, it can live between 12 to 15 years. There are no major health concerns associated with the Sealyham also minor medical concerns include retinal dysplasia and lens luxation and occasionally, deafness. It should be eye tested prior to breeding.

The Sealyham terrier will do best with a base diet of foods that are a mixture of horse meat, mutton, poultry, corn, wheat and potatoes.

Sealyham Terrier Exercise Needs

Although exercise requirement is low, the Sealyham Terrier will love daily walks or a session of play in a secured open space. When taken for a walk outside, it must always be kept on leash as this breed has a good nose for tracking and may follow an interesting scent and ignore any commands from the owner.

Children and other pets

It is proven to be aggressive with other household pets including dogs and must be socialized at a very early age with other animals to be able to get along with them without any problems. In addition, early socialization and introduction with the children in the house will get the breed to do well with them.