Sealyham Terrier

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Sealyham Terriers can suffer from allergies, though they are rarely serious. There are several genetic eye diseases that parents should be tested for prior to breeding, such as primary lens luxation. They may also be affected by chondrodystrophy (with or without chondrodysplasia) and coagulation factor VII deficiency. The breed can suffer from deafness, so hearing exams are recommended. Genetic testing can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Personality and Behavior

Despite their initial purpose as tenacious hunters, Sealyham Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are intelligent, courageous, and generally have a calm demeanor. However, their terrier lineage means they can be somewhat independent and occasionally stubborn. Early socialization and positive reinforcement-based training are recommended. Sealyhams are often good with children and can do well with other dogs if they are properly socialized. Their hunting instincts may lead them to chase smaller animals, so care should be taken around small pets.

Terrier Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Terriers were bred to hunt pests like rats, foxes, and badgers. Terriers are tenacious and fearless with high energy levels, strong prey drive, and feisty temperaments which all help in their hunting abilities. Terriers were used as mighty hunters in both urban and rural settings. Terriers have natural hunting instincts and protective tendencies.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Jack Russell Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Yorkshire Terrier.

Fun Facts

Sealyham Terriers have been owned by a variety of famous personalities, including Humphrey Bogart, Cary Grant, and Agatha Christie.

In the past, the breed was sometimes referred to as the "Cowboy's Companion" due to their popularity in America.

They have a keen sense of smell and were once used in South Africa to sniff out a beetle that was destroying crops.

References

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/sealyham-terrier/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/sealyham-terrier https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/SEALYHAM-TERRIER-74.html
https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_sealyham_terrier
https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/50/