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The Sealyham Terrier is a relatively new breed that has experienced dramatic highs and lows during its short history. These little dogs, AKC recognized in 1911, are smart, strong working dogs and also make loving companions. Here are some things about the this member of the Terrier Group that you may not have known.

1. The Breed Was Developed in Wales

John Tucker-Edwardes of Pembrokeshire, Wales, is credited with developing the Sealyham Terrier. Tucker-Edwardes lived on an estate called Sealyham, and named the breed after his estate. Though he did not keep breeding records, experts believe he used the Wire Fox Terrier, the West Highland White Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and the now extinct English White Terrier to create this new breed.

Sealyham Terrier at the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin.
David Woo ©American Kennel Club

2. They Were Bred to Hunt Small Game

John Tucker-Edwardes was an avid sportsman, and his main goal in creating the Sealyham was to design a breed perfect for badger digging and otter hunting. Today, some sportsmen still use Sealyhams to hunt small game, such as pheasants and rabbits. Sealyhams are also very good at controlling pests like rats.

 

3. Their White Coats Ensure They Stand Out

Tucker-Edwardes valued a white coat because it ensured his dogs would stand out against the gray and brown colors of the terrain where they hunted. White is still the only color in the Sealyham breed standard, though lemon, tan or badger colored markings on the head and ears are allowed.

Sealyham Terrier sitting in the grass.
©Dixi_ - stock.adobe.com

4. They Were Popular With Past Hollywood Stars

The Sealyham reached peak popularity between World War I and World War II. Famous owners of Sealyhams include Elizabeth Taylor, Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart, Cary Grant, and Alfred Hitchcock. Sealyhams were also popular with British Royalty in the mid-20th century. Both Queen Elizabeth II’s mother and sister, Princess Margaret, had Sealyhams.

5. Two Sealyhams Appeared in “The Birds”

Alfred Hitchcock’s two Sealyhams actually have a short cameo in his movie, “The Birds.” In one of the opening scenes of the film, the two terriers exit a pet shop with their owner.

 

6. They Are Champion Show Dogs

2007 AKC National Champion
Lisa Croft-Elliott ©AKC

Even though the Sealyham is considered a rare breed, it has four Best in Show titles from the Westminster Kennel Club, and a Best in Show title at Crufts, the international show dog championships. The Sealyham Terrier also won Best in Show at the 2023 AKC National Dog Show in Philadelphia.

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