Sealyham Terrier

The Sealyham Terrier packs as much spunk and substance in a little terrier body as you're ever likely to find, while still being a graceful and friendly dog. Sealyhams like to be around people, and have a charming sense of humor. They are able performers in obedience training, often putting their own "spin" on tricks.

Sealyhams are quiet and relaxed in the house, though they do need daily walks and romps. Sealyhams also are reliable watch dogs. Their bark is surprisingly deep for such a small dog. Originally from Wales, Sealyhams were bred to go after foxes, badgers, and otters. Sealyham was the name of the estate of Captain John Edwardes, the man most responsible for the breed as we know it today.

Sealyhams have beautiful white coats that sometimes have lemon, tan, or badger markings on the head and ears. The outer coat is hard, while the undercoat is soft and dense. Eyes are dark; nose is black.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Powerful and determined, keen and alert.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--101/2 inches at withers. Weight--males, 23 to 24 pounds; females slightly less.

Fun Facts

Though they can be independent, Sealyham Terriers are known for their sense of humor. One Sealyham, Chum, was such a little ham that she liked acting out character parts for her family and their visitors. Chum could pretend to be deathly ill, writing a letter, laughing at a joke, saying her prayers, and even flirting with the family cat by putting her "arm" around the cat's "waist." As the finale to her act, Chum would sit up and clap her paws together enthusiastically.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc