The silly, scruffy Sealyham Terrier is a born canine comedian. This breed is surprisingly laid back for a terrier: she's calm, easygoing, and loves to spend time with her chosen people. We know God loves a terrier (at least according to the movie Best in Show), but the Sealyham just might be Her favorite.
These dogs are beefy and buff for their size, and have lots of vim and vigor. Originally bred to hunt fox, otter, and badgers, Sealyham Terriers move like running backs — low to the ground, determined, and powerful. These days, many Sealyhams make devoted family companions and fierce competitors in earthdog trials.
Originally from Wales, this small-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 18-24 pounds and lives an average of 12-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Wales |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Small |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 144 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Fox hunting |
| Today's function | Earthdog trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 10.5 Weight: 23-24 |
| Average size of female | Height: 10.5 Weight: 18-22 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Low energy |
| Exercise needs | Low |
| Playfullness | Not very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Moderately protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderate maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A SEALYHAM TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Sealyham Terriers are brave, outgoing, and alert. They have that charming, inquisitive terrier spirit, but aren't as stroppy as some smaller terriers can be. With socialization and supervision, your playful Sealyham may get along well with children, and even other dogs and household cats.
WHAT IS SEALYHAM TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
A Sealyham Terrier is pretty butch for a small dog: she's sturdy, strong, powerful, and determined. This is a somewhat active breed who'll appreciate lots of time to chase, dig, and explore every day. If you're planning to play offleash, be sure you're in a safe, traffic-free area and you've practiced reliable recall — this dog will follow her nose just about anywhere, and isn't great about looking both ways before she crosses.
Once she's had enough exercise, Sealyhams make for a calm and well-mannered housemate. However, in terms of barking, the Sealyham resembles many of her terrier cousins — this dog likes to be vocal.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A SEALYHAM TERRIER?
Though they can be a smidge stubborn, Sealyham Terriers respond well to training. They'll appreciate both the physical challenges and the mental stimulation learning provides with positive training methods. This breed excels in agility, earthdog, rally, and obedience events. Sealyhams are also fierce competitors in the dog show ring.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO SEALYHAM TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Sealyham Terriers are seasonal shedders. Plan to comb and brush this pup a few times a week to stay on top of mats and tangles. She'll probably need monthly trimming. Sealyhams who compete in the show ring will need hand stripping.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO SEALYHAM TERRIERS HAVE?
As a breed, Sealyham Terriers are generally healthy. Some are susceptible to eye disease and deafness.
