The Sealyham Terrier: A Friendy, Fearless Dog Breed

Published March 10, 2021
Sealyham Terrier

The Sealyham terrier is also called the "Sealy" and was once one of the United Kingdom's most popular terrier breeds. This uncommon breed is now the UK's most endangered native breed. The Sealy is a loyal and devoted companion dog but wary of strangers.

Sealyham Terrier Breed Overview

The Sealyham is known for his high-prey drive, so a home with many small pets may not be a good fit. This breed is happy in the company of others but also fine if left alone at home. The Sealy originated in Wales and hunted badgers, otters, and foxes.

Origin and History

In the late nineteenth century, Captain John Edwardes developed the Sealyham terrier breed on his estate in Wales. His goal was to create a dog brave and agile enough to hunt badgers, otters, and foxes. He crossed multiple breeds of terrier-type dogs, including the Dandie Dinmonts, Fox terriers, and West Highland white terriers.

Sealyham Terrier puppy

Temperament

The territorial nature makes the Sealy a good watchdog, but an innate stubbornness means that persistence in training is important. The Sealy is a proud, sturdy little breed, and he adapts well to city and country living.

Appearance

This dog is a canine of "extraordinary substance," and his coat is weather-resisting, comprised of a soft, dense undercoat and hard, wiry topcoat.

  • Coat colors: This breed's coat is all white with tan or badger markings on his head and ears.
  • Height: The Sealy is between 10 and 12 inches tall.
  • Weight: This terrier weighs between 18 and 24 pounds.

Grooming

The show clip is adorable! If pet parents want to keep up the show clip, regular grooming sessions are required. The double coat needs to be regularly combed and brushed with appropriate grooming tools.

Health Conditions

The breed is hardy with only one medical issue breeders screen for called the lens luxation, and there are DNA tests. Always ask a breeder if there are any health issues you need to be aware of before bringing a puppy home.

Exercise

The Sealyham terrier may participate in dog sports, including agility, earth dog, and rally. He also needs a daily walk to sniff new scents in the neighborhood. This terrier is an active breed and suitable for pet parents planning to get outdoors!

Sealyham Terrier Dog, Adult standing on Grass

Best Diet for Small Breeds

There are many diets specially formulated for smaller breeds. Watching your small breed's weight to make sure he does not become obese is extremely important.

Caring for Your Senior Sealy

The terrier's lifespan is 14 years! This dog is known to be active even as he ages, and it is important to visit the vet at least twice a year. The Sealy is a long-lived-breed and may experience achy joints, so a vet may prescribe a supplement or pain medication to address arthritis.

About the Terrier Group

The American Sealyham Terrier Club is an excellent resource for pet lovers. If a pet parent is looking for puppies, the breeders on this website may help answer questions. This breed was first imported to the U.S. in 1911 and debuted at a California show the same year. This little terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911 and is a proud member of the terrier group.

The Sealy Breed Hunted Badgers and Otters

This dog is outgoing and sturdy. He is a perfect candidate for pet parents with active lifestyles. The Sealyham terrier may battle with a badger, otter, or even a fox, so he also has a high prey-drive! A home without small pets is a better fit for this feisty terrier. This pet is ideal for any animal lover living in a city or rural setting.

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The Sealyham Terrier: A Friendy, Fearless Dog Breed