Background
The Sealyham Terrier was developed between 1850 and 1891 at Sealyham House near Wolfscastle in the Welsh county of Pembrokeshire by Captain John Edwardes to be used for pest control.
The Sealyham gained popularity in the early 1900s in the United Kingdom and the United States, particularly as a show dog. He also became a fashionable dog in the Hollywood film industry. Celebrities like Humphrey Bogart, Bette Davies, Elizabeth Taylor, and Agatha Christie were all fans of the breed. He even had his “big break” in Hitchcock’s The Birds.
The Sealyham Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911.
Sizing up
- Weight: 20 to 24 lbs.
- Height: 10 to 12 inches
- Coat: Long, wiry double coat
- Color: White outer coat with markings on the face including lemon, black, blue, brown, and badger, which is a mix of brown and black
- Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
What’s the Sealyham Terrier like?
The Sealyham Terrier has been called a couch potato of the Terrier world, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to stimulate your Sealyham with activity. He may be relaxed but he still loves to hunt and will protect your garden and home from rabbits, moles, and mice. He’ll even take on larger dogs, so watch him carefully. He is a very curious little dog so you may catch him wandering off.
The Sealy is a very independent breed that is devoted to family. You should begin training classes immediately. Keep the training sessions short so he doesn’t get bored and praise him when he does well.
Grooming the Sealyham Terrier’s double coat is very simple and only requires a regular brushing with a wire comb to prevent matting. However, since the breed stands so low to the ground his long coat can dirty easily.
Health
The Sealyham Terrier is generally a healthy breed but watch for any of the following:
- Canine degenerative myelopathy (CDM)
- Lens luxation
Takeaway points
- The Sealyham Terrier loves to hunt and follow his nose.
- The Sealyham Terrier is well suited as a city dog or a country dog.
- The Sealyham Terrier is suitable for any home, even homes with small children.
- The Sealyham Terrier should be trained in short sessions.
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.