60-70 lbs
21-23"
Wales
The Welsh Hound was bred specifically to hunt fox in their native Wales; they are rarely kept just as pets. However, as fox hunting has become illegal in many parts of the world, the Welsh Hound is left without a specific job. They are an active, smart and fun breed that does require a strong leader to keep them in line. Bred to hunt in packs, the Welsh Hound is a very social dog and does require daily interactions with other dogs. When they are bored, they can easily become destructive and cause their owners a headache. Still considered a rare breed, the Welsh Hound is gaining popularity throughout the world, especially within the United States.
The Welsh Hound is thought to have descended from ancient Celtic hounds. Many historians believe these Celtic hounds have been in Wales since sometime in the 5th century. The Celtic hounds were bred to smooth coated hounds that might have descended from the St. Hubert Hound. These smooth coated hounds were thought to have come from the Margam Abbey. The dogs produced from this cross were then bred to smooth coated English Staghounds. These English Staghounds are thought to be the trio owned by Parson Jack Russell. The resulting dogs were solely used to hunt fox in large packs. Therefore, these dogs had to have a good disposition to be able to work with a pack even during the frenzy of the hunt. The Welsh Hound was used for over 200 years solely for organized fox hunts through the British Isles. Some researchers feel the Welsh Hound did not originate from Celtic Hounds, St. Hubert Hounds and English Staghounds. Instead, they believe the Welsh Hound is a direct descendant of the now extinct Segussi breed. Since the breed has such a long history, with its beginnings not recorded anywhere in known history, it is likely that nobody will ever know their exact origins. The official studbook for the Welsh Hound was opened by the Welsh Hound Association in 1922. The breed has remained pure since 1928. Since fox hunting is now outlawed in England, the Welsh Hound had to be reclassified as a rare breed companion or pet rather than an actual working breed. The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2006.
The Welsh Hound has a typical foxhound look with strong shoulders, longer muscled legs and a sturdy trunk. Their bark is total hound and must be loud enough to carry across windy Welsh terrains while hunting. They give an overall impression of being sturdy and athletic. Their tail is set high and carried gaily but it should never curl over their back like a spitz-type breed. Their ears are long and hang down beside their cheek. The set of their ears should be medium low and close to the head. They have a broad nose that can be black or brown depending on their coat color. Their eyes are medium sized and set obliquely; the color is varying shades of brown with darker eye rims. The Welsh Hound has a dense coat that is harsh and medium long. Some Welsh Hounds have a smooth coat and this is not to be considered a serious fault. They can be found in black, red, tan, fawn or white. They can also be pied and have a mix of white and any of the previously mentioned colors.
The Welsh Hound does have a dense coat that will shed, this means they are not a hypoallergenic breed and do require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy. Their coat does require weekly brushing using a slicker brush or even a natural bristle brush. A metal comb may be needed to remove any tangles from their medium length coat. They shed seasonally, during these times be sure to brush them more often to keep hairs from collecting around the house. They do have a harsh coat that should repel dirt so they should not need to be bathed often. When bathing, be sure to use a shampoo that is for harsh coats and do not over-condition their coat, this will soften the coat too much. Being a hound with hanging ears be sure to clean their ears weekly. Dry their ears thoroughly to ensure no infection can start. Trim the hair between the pads of their feet and clip their nails as needed.
The Welsh Hound was bred to be strictly a hunting dog and not a companion. They were bred to be pack animals and do need daily interactions with other dogs. Welsh Hounds that live in one dog homes are more likely to be unhappy and become destructive or unruly. They are intelligent and gentle. Their happy nature makes them an excellent companion for children, although young children should be watched to ensure they are respecting the dog’s personal space. There is a stubborn streak in their nature that can make training interesting. The Welsh Hound learns quickly as long as the learning environment is fun and consistent. They do need a definite leader within the household or they will assume that role. They are a higher energy dog, do not expect them to be happy just sitting around the house. These dogs do not willingly become couch potatoes and will find their own entertainment if you do not provide enough stimulation for them.
The Welsh Hound is a very intelligent dog, but they are also high energy and do require a significant amount of activity each day. These dogs are social and enjoy spending time playing with other dogs, daily visits to the local dog park is a great way for them to run and play with other dogs if they do not have another dog at home. Doggy playdates also work well if you do not have a dog park close by. The Welsh Hound is not a good choice for apartment living, they are very vocal and will bark incessantly when left alone for too long. They will also become destructive if they are not given opportunity to stretch their legs.
Written by a Rough Collie lover Holly Ramsey
Published: 03/08/2018, edited: 02/24/2021
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