A Welsh Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed which has a very distinctive wire-textured coat; it appears like that of an Airedale Terrier. The dog has a compact, sturdy body with a tan head, legs and belly; there is a black or grizzle jacket as well. Most often, the tail of the dog is docked and this provides the dog with an overall square look; the dog is as long as it is tall. Since the dog is long-legged, it has a typical terrier gait, which looks almost effortless. The personality of a Welsh Terrier is one of great courage and spirit, the dog strives to please the owner and is capable of great patience. The dog has a very distinguished "Welsh Terrier Expression," which can best be described as confident and alert.

The Welsh Terrier has extra hair at the muzzle, which is half the length of the distance between the nose and back of the head. Both the muzzle and nose of the dog have a squared off appearance. The Welsh Terrier nose is black, as are the lips. The teeth must meet in a perfect scissor bite, though some judges will not penalize a level bite. The neck is medium-sized and thick, slightly arched without excess skin around the throat. The Welsh Terrier breed has a leveled top-line, a moderately wide chest and a short, strong loin. The tail is docked and carried high on the back of the rump.

Males of the breed stand between 15 and 15 ½ inches and female are a bit smaller; the average weight for the breed is around 20 lbs.; however, it depends upon the dog's height and body structure. All Welsh Terriers must have the appearance of a strong and sturdy build, and a rectangular head and small almond shaped dark brown eyes. The eyes of a Welsh Terrier should be spaced at a relative distance apart and the ears are small and folded in a V-shape. The ears have a tendency to shifting forward and upward when the dog is on alert, the dog has flat cheeks which do not bulge or pooch out.

The rear end of the dog is straight, with long, sloping shoulders that are laid back. The dog has straight legs which are very muscular and the paws are catlike, rounded and small. Welsh Terriers have black thick under pads on their feet with strong toe nails; dewclaws should be removed. The back part of the dog is also strong and muscular, with second thighs which are well developed. The coat of the dog is thick, hard and wiry, with a soft undercoat which is shorter in length. There are extra tufts of hair on the dog's legs, quarters and muzzle, which is also thick, wiry and dense.

If your family is searching for a smaller dog that has giant tenacity, a Welsh Terrier is exactly that. The breed makes an excellent choice of pet for families looking for an affectionate and outgoing companion. A Welsh Terrier gets along well in most situations and is an ideal companion, providing years of enjoyment and loyalty.