Appearance

The Welsh Terrier is often described as a miniature Airedale Terrier with a compact body and a wiry coat. The long head is rectangular and sports a beard, mustache and bushy eyebrows. The square muzzle is strong and the teeth may meet in a level or scissors bite. The eyes are small, almond-shaped and darkly colored. The topline is level and the neck is moderately long and thick. The feat are round, like those of a cat. The coat comes in black and tan only, though the black may actually be grizzle. The tail is customarily docked and carried upright.

Size and Weight

Male Welsh Terriers should stand from 15-15.5 inches at the shoulder, ideally. Females are slightly smaller. The average weight for the breed is 20 pounds, but the weight should always be in proportion to the height of the dog.

Coat and Color

The Welsh Terrier wears a waterproof double coat made up of a soft undercoat and a hard and wiry topcoat. The breed comes in one color pattern only, tan and black. The jacket is either grizzle or black, moving up onto the neck, down onto the tail and into the upper thighs. The legs, quarters, and head are tan.

Grooming Needs

Though the Welsh Terrier sheds only lightly, regular grooming is still required. The coat should be brushed three times per week, and stripped several times per year. Stripping can be done by hand or with a stripping knife. Bathe the Welsh Terrier as needed.

Check the ears on a weekly basis for signs of infection, irritation, or wax build up. Cleanse regularly with a veterinarian-approved cleanser and cotton ball. Brush the teeth at least once per week to prevent tartar buildup and fight gum disease. Additionally, nails should be trimmed once per month if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally.