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This rare breed of dog is currently listed on the KC's list of vulnerable native breeds as registrations of pups are consistently less than 300 per year, with a meagre 48 being registered being registered in 2008.
Named for the country estate of the man, ( Captain John Edwardes), who developed the breed, Sealyham Terriers originated in Wales and are thought to have been developed through crosses with the now-extinct small white Cheshire Terrier. West Highland Whites, Fox Terriers and Corgis are all thought to have contributed to the development of this breed. The Captain did not keep records of this breeding lineage but his aim was to produce a distinct, white haired Terrier which he could see easily in the field while hunting. By 108 a club dedicated to this dog was opened and 3 years later the UK KC recognised the breed. Over the years, Sealyham Terriers have been used to hunt otters, badgers, foxes, vermin and stoats. They were bred to be a very tough dog, and to do this, breeders used to cull the weaker pups and just keep the stronger ones for breeding purposes to establish a well defined set of physical and behavioural traits. In the 1930's this dog soared in popularity in the US amongst the elite of Hollywood, and features in a number of films at the time, including the Hitchcock thriller 'the Birds'. A number of British Royalty were also fans of this breed, most notably Princess Margaret.
At one time Sealies, as they are sometimes called, were one of the most popular Terrier breeds. Today, however, they're uncommon and are considered by Great Britain's Kennel Club to be one of that country's most endangered native breeds.
Average height to withers: Males and females both up to 10 inches.
Average weight: 8kg for females, with males slightly more at up to 9.5kg.
Sealyham Terriers aren't big dogs, but they have long, broad and powerful heads coupled with well-muscled bodies. Their eyes are dark, deep set and sparkle with intelligence. The ears are folded level with the top of the head and the forward edge lies close to the cheek. The white coat is dense, wiry on top, with a downy undercoat providing a warm and quite weather resistant layer. Markings on the face can be in a variety of colours including lemon, black, brown, blue, and badger, which is a mix of brown and black. As quite low slung dogs with long hair, they are typically found with a line of mud around their midriffs where the hair can trail along the ground - unless groomed and cut.
The Sealyham's nature and temperament enchants people. While it is less active than the most Terrier's, this breed has the adopted name of the 'couch potato of terriers'. At the same time though, this breed has a wonderful sense of adventure and fun and is always ready to play! Because of its hunting heritage, it typically gets along well with other dogs in the home, as well as people, although it can be reserved toward strangers until it knows and trusts them.
Although they are intelligent and very charming, Sealies can sometimes exhibit the stubbornness that most Terriers are well known for. To maintain your position as leader of the pack, you must display a firm and consistent hand and the ability not to laugh at their comic antics as you scold them! As a pet and companion, you won't be disappointed though. They are real people pleasers and like to be around children and this little dog adapts well to modern lifestyles and is comfortable in both city and country. Inquisitive, self assured, loyal and happy, this dog always delights.
Overall the Sealyham is a robust dog, which suffers from few conditions or diseases. In good health, it can live up to 15 years of age, sometime longer. It can be prone to an eye condition called 'lens luxation'. This is caused by a weakening in the fibres which hold the lens of the eye in place, causing it to slip out. It can cause permanent optic nerve damage if left untreated.
While this dog isn't all about exercise, it does need at least one walk a day to keep it in good health, given its lounge lizard tendencies. It also enjoys its food, so the owner needs to keep a close eye on its weight! In term of keeping the white coat gleaming, the Sealyham does require extensive grooming and may benefit from a professional touch to help you along. Bathe only when necessary and excessively dirty, otherwise sponge any detritus away where possible.
