The Welsh Terrier is the kind of dog that will always keep its owner on their toes. These pups are full of energy and absolutely love to play. A more active owner is more suitable for this type of dog, as they will need to run often to feel their best. Activities such as hiking, swimming, jogging, and just about any other sporty activity are sure to make your Welshie as happy as can be. These dogs also get along great with other dogs, so taking them to the dog park is a perfect way to let them burn off their energy.
While their exact history is not entirely certain, the Welsh Terrier is believed to be one of the first Terriers to have existed. These medium-sized dogs, weighing up to 20 pounds, were bred to hunt small animals such as badgers, foxes, and otters. The Welshie was extremely skilled at what they did and proved to be invaluable assets for their hunter counterparts. A unique aspect of the Welsh Terrier is that they were bred to hunt independently, and this attitude is deeply rooted in their DNA. They are free-thinkers and prefer doing things as they please without being told what to do.
Today, the Welsh Terrier serves primarily as a companion dog but can also be seen as a search and rescue and therapy dog. Their ability to be therapy dogs comes from their super affectionate personality. They love being around people and will become extremely close with all of their family members. They have happy, lively attitudes that make them a pleasure to be around. The Welshie will also make a great watchdog for the house; you can be sure that they will alert you long before anyone makes it to your front door.
Despite being among the most intelligent dogs, the Welshie is difficult to train. They do not like being told what to do and enjoy being independent. They are not the typical people-pleasing dog and will need a dedicated and patient owner to be trained properly. Even if your Welshie is well-trained and receives plenty of exercise, they will still get rowdy in the house from time to time. They have such upbeat personalities that there is no stopping them from bouncing off the walls every so often. Let’s just say that this pup is not ideal for the type of owner that does not allow their dog to lay a paw on the couch!