AKC Terrier Group
History
The Sealyham Terrier was originally developed in Wales in the mid-1800s by Captain John Edwardes. Although Edwardes kept no breeding records, sources believe the Sealyham was produced from crosses between the Corgi, Dandie Dinmont, West Highland White, Wirehaired Fox Terrier, Bull Terrier, and perhaps even some hounds. The Sealyham was named after the estate of the breed’s creator. Like many other long, low terriers, the Sealyham was used to hunt den animals such as fox, badger, and otter. Captain Edwardes tested all puppies and allowed only the game, valiant pups to live, shooting the rest. His foundation stock was very tough indeed. Today’s Sealyham temperament is quite a bit mellower. The Sealyham has become mostly a companion dog, though he still makes a good ratter.
Description
The Sealyham is a strong white terrier with a long, broad head, slightly domed skull, powerful jaws, and bushy eyebrows, mustache, and beard. The topline should be level. It is short-legged, slightly longer than tall. The dark eyes are oval. The nose is black. The broad ears are folded level with the top of the head. The chest is deep and lowered well between the legs. The docked tail is carried straight up. The harsh, wiry coat comes in white, with or without lemon, tan, or badger markings on the head and ears.
Key Facts
- Height: Averages 10 1/2 in.
- Size: Small
- Weight: Averages 23 lbs.
- Availability: Very difficult to find
- Talents: Hunting, tracking, earthdog, and watchdog
Notes
Good for older owners because the breed isn’t demanding or rowdy. The coat needs regular attention. Likes to dig and bark. The bark is surprisingly loud for a small dog. Prone to deafness. Check parents and litter by making noises and trying to attract their attention. If in doubt, have the puppies BAER tested. Some bloodlines are prone to skin and back problems, and glaucoma. Does not do well in very hot conditions.
Personality
Loyal, loving, and independent. Spirited, cheerful, and fun-loving. Brave and bold. Not as rowdy as some of the other terrier breeds. Can be quite willful. Needs firm training. Can be very combative with other dogs.
Behavior
- Children: Best with older, considerate children
- Friendliness: Reserved with strangers
- Trainability: Slightly difficult to train
- Independence: Fairly independent
- Dominance: High
- Other Pets: Generally good with other pets
- Combativeness: Very dog-aggressive
- Noise: Likes to bark
- Indoors: Relatively active indoors
- Owner: Good for novice owners
Care
- Grooming: Regular grooming needed
- Trimming and Stripping: Professional trimming or stripping needed
- Coat: Medium-long coat
- Shedding: Very light
- Docking: The tail is customarily docked
- Exercise: Moderate exercise needed
- Jogging: A poor jogging companion
- Apartments: Good for apartment living
- Outdoor Space: Does all right without a yard
- Climate: Does well in all climates
- Longevity: Long (15 or more years)
Useful Links
AKC® Sealyham Terrier Breed Standard
http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SealyhamTerrier.pdf
Sealyham Terrier Breed Club
Search for a Breeder
akc.org/classified/search/landing_breed.cfm
Rescue Organizations
akc.org/dog-breeds/rescue-network/contacts/
