Sealyham Terrier Fact Center

The documented history of the Sealyham starts in the 1800s, although there is some evidence that small, white, long-backed terriers existed in Wales as far back as the 1400s. The originator of the breed, Captain John Edwardes of Sealyham, descended from the family thought to have imported those early white terriers. Captain Edwardes worked from 1850 to 1891 to develop a plucky, good-looking white terrier that soon gained a reputation for its ability to face down badgers, otters, and foxes.

The Sealyham started another chapter when it entered the dog show arena in 1903. The AKC quickly recognized them by 1911, and they became one of the most competitive breeds in the show ring. They remained in demand as hunting terriers, and also found their way into homes as jaunty and smart-looking companions.

After the 1930s, the Sealyham’s popularity began to decline, however, and today it ranks only 149th out of 155 breeds in AKC registration numbers.

The Sealyham is all terrier all the time, which means he’s spunky, cocky, and full of himself. It also means he can have an attitude when it comes to other dogs, although in truth, he’s not as unwelcoming or boisterous as most terriers. He’s friendly, playful, and fairly outgoing, even with strangers, unless he senses something amiss. Sealys can be independent and even stubborn, but that’s part of their charm.

The Sealyham Terrier is longer than tall, with short legs and a level topline. He’s built to maneuver in tight quarters. His body is strong and substantial, and his head is long, broad, and powerful. His ears are folded level with the top of the head. The coat is weather-resistant, consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and a hard, wiry outer coat. The color is white, or white with lemon, tan, or badger markings.

The Sealyham was bred to think for himself, and to persist in the face of adversity when facing down tough quarry. He was not bred to check in with you for directions, so don’t expect that kind of responsiveness. This is a free-thinking, sometimes stubborn pupil when it comes to obedience. He can be trained, but only if it seems worth his while, so be ready with lots of positive rewards. He’s easily distracted, so train for short sessions and keep it fun.

The Sealy’s coarse coat needs combing two to three times a week, plus stripping (pulling dead hairs out by hand) every three months. The coat can be clipped instead of stripped. Clipping is much easier and pet owners usually prefer it, although it softens the coat. Clip the Sealy’s nails and keep his big teeth clean. Compared to most other terriers, the Sealyham is relatively low key, but he’s still an energetic, fun-loving dog that needs to have a short walk or boisterous game session every day. Take care that he doesn’t find a way under the fence and off in pursuit of something to hunt--a squirrel or rabbit across the road can be a powerful motivator for any terrier.

The Sealyham has no major health problems, but retinal dysplasia and lens luxation occur at a greater rate than in most other breeds, so ask the breeder about these issues, and request copies of eye tests.

Most breeds can’t boast a single Best in Show winner at the Westminster Kennel Club, but the Sealyham is downright greedy in its winning members. The supreme award was won in 1924 by Ch. Barberryhill Bootlegger (AKA Bootlegger), in 1927 by Ch. Pinegrade Perfection (AKA Perfection), in 1936 by Ch. St Margaret Magnificent of Claredale (AKA Magnificent), and in 1977 by Ch. Dersade Bobby’s Girl (AKA Binny). Alright already, give some other breed a chance, will ya?