Sealyham Terrier

Sealyham Terriers wariness and loud barking make seals excellent watchdogs. Possessing an adaptable nature, seals are suited to both urban and suburban lifestyles.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The breed was named after the Sealy Ham estate on the River Seel in southwest Wales, where this robust and confident terrier was first bred. The father of the breed was an army captain named John Edwards, who retired in the mid-1800s at the age of 40 and spent the rest of his life creating the dog of his dreams.

The primary purpose of the Sealy was to support a flock of captain’s hounds. Otters in those days were considered pests that depleted the fish population of vast estates like Seeley Ham. Edwards raised his terrier to be strong and hardy enough to dig clawed otters out of their lairs. Edwards left no written record of his breeding, and modern authorities disagree on the exact pedigree of the original dog species. The captain succeeded in creating a fearless and dynamic hunter who was also a delightful fireside companion. The years between the world wars were the heyday of the breed in America.

The breed today is slightly larger and friendlier than the feisty terriers first bred by Captain Edwards. Their friendliness finds good use as therapy dogs in nursing homes and children’s hospitals.

Appearance

Sealyham Terriers are among the strongest animals we consider small dogs. An adult male reaches 25-30 cm, while a female gets a height of 20-25 cm. An adult male dog weighs about ten pounds, and an adult female weighs eight pounds. The Sealyham Terrier is muscular and low built. The coat, built for bad weather, is predominantly white, and the long, broad head is adorned with lush facial vegetation.

Character

Sealyham Terriers wariness and loud barking make seals excellent watchdogs. Possessing an adaptable nature, seals are suited to both urban and suburban lifestyles.

Care

The long hair of the Sealyham Terrier should be brushed twice a week. But the owner should also have the pet trimmed once every few months. It is a procedure of plucking the dead hairs.

Otherwise, the dog will start to grow tangles. It would help if you bathed the dog as needed. But the beard should be rinsed every time after meals. It will keep bacteria from growing in it.

Training

Two walks a day is enough for the Sealyham Terrier. This dog is suitable for people who have a lot of work. But it would help if you did not forget about training. After all, simple rules will make life easier for the owner. The dog should know the basic commands. By the way, it is easily trainable.

Common Diseases

The Sealyham Terrier is prone to some diseases, namely:

• congenital deafness;
• obesity;
• allergic reactions and intolerances.

Nutrition

Dry dog food is best for a Sealyham Terrier. Owners participating in dog shows should avoid dye products, as it tends to stain beards and can also stain urine, which can cause hair to turn yellowish. Some dogs are prone to obesity, so you need to watch your dog’s calorie intake and weight level. The dog owner should check with the veterinarian about which foods are safe for dogs and which are not. A Sealyham Terrier should have access to fresh, potable water at all times.