Overview
The Sealyham Terrier was created on a Pembrokeshire estate in the nineteenth century to work with otter hounds, and it has since dwindled to one of Britain's rarest native breeds. It is low-set, strongly built and mostly white, with a long head, heavy eyebrows and a fine beard. Owners describe it as funny, affectionate and far calmer indoors than most terriers.
On a walk the Sealyham mixes a terrier's curiosity with a sense of humour. It is less frantic than a Jack Russell and less prickly than a Scottie, but the instincts are all there: it will dig, chase and argue if given the chance.
Exercise and walking needs
Forty-five minutes to an hour a day is plenty for most adults. The Sealyham enjoys a varied route with hedgerows and long grass far more than distance, and it is happy to go home and sleep after a good sniff about.
Watch the weight. This is a breed that gains easily, and the heavy front end puts extra load on short legs. A lean Sealyham moves much better than a chunky one.
On the walk
- Recall: Moderate. Many Sealyhams come back well in quiet places and ignore you entirely when a scent or a small animal appears. Use a long line while you learn the dog.
- Pulling: Not a strong puller but a determined one when it has a target. A harness suits the shape better than a collar.
- Other dogs: Generally sociable and playful with a bit of terrier swagger. Some are bossy with larger dogs and need a quiet word before it escalates.
- Grooming: The coat traps burrs, mud and wet grass. A quick brush of the legs and beard at the door keeps owners happy.
Tips for professional walkers
- Vary the route. A Sealyham gets more from a new hedgerow than from a longer version of the same walk.
- Keep an eye on the beard after drinking from puddles and ditches; it holds water and smells for hours.
- Carry a towel and a few treats. Food is a strong motivator for this breed and helps with recall.
What to ask the owner
- How is the dog with small animals and cats, and has it ever gone to ground after something?
- Is the dog on a weight programme, and how many treats are allowed on a walk?
- Any eye or skin conditions you should know about, and is there a preferred harness?