26-42 lbs
15-18"
Wales, England
As a herding dog with exceptional intelligence and energy, the Welsh Sheepdog makes for an independent and hard working companion. Responding well to a firm yet fair owner, the Welsh Sheepdog is a tireless worker best suited to a life outdoors.
Strong, incredibly active and highly alert at all times, the Welsh Sheepdog needs constant mental stimulation. If you want to keep this beautiful animal as a pet or watchdog then exercise is a must. This dog will quickly become bored if kept in the house and is at its best when allowed to partake in physically demanding and disciplined activities.
Our breed profile of the Welsh Sheepdog delves further into the breed’s history, characteristics, temperament, maintenance requirements and more. Keep reading for more information such as:
The Welsh Sheepdog is an interesting animal to study. It’s not a pedigree, but is instead described as a ‘landrace’ dog. This is the term used to describe canines with greater variation in appearance and temperament. Landrace dogs such as the Welsh Sheepdog are physically adapted to meet the needs of a specific environment, which in this case is the harsh terrain of Wales. They’re often selected for their work ethic over appearance.
While the origins of the breed are unclear, the ancient Welsh staghound kept by Welsh noblemen for hunting purposes could have formed part of the foundation stock.
In comparison, the Border Collie is a standardized breed, recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1995. This dog is often used to herd sheep instead of the Welsh Sheepdog. While Welsh Sheepdog puppies have waned in popularity due to the popularity of Border Collies with Shepherds, the Welsh Sheepdog is still very much used and bred for its original purpose.
In fact, efforts have been made in recent years to maintain the indigenous Welsh Sheepdog as a distinct variety of canine.
As a highly-skilled herder, Welsh Sheepdogs are often acquired for their ability to work independently - often far away from their owner. They respond to positive reinforcements over harsh corrections but take commands extremely well.
Calling all owners! As Welsh Sheepdogs are outside for most of the day taking on challenging tasks, pet insurance is a must. The right cover will offer financial protection if your dog becomes ill or has an ongoing health issue. Use the super-fast Wag! Compare service to check out the best pet insurance deals available.
Unlike the very distinctive history of the Cockapoo or the German Shepherd, the past of the Welsh Sheepdog is shrouded in mystery. What we do know is that Welsh law manuscripts dating back over 800 years mentioned the uniqueness of herding dogs that are thought to have preceded the modern Welsh Sheepdog. Dogs of this kind were used to guard and herd livestock which were a very valuable commodity at the time.
As farming evolved, Welsh Sheepdogs were commonly used by ‘drovers’ to walk livestock over long distances, typically from Wales to London and other markets. As ‘droving’ is a type of herding, Welsh Sheepdogs were the perfect fit for this role due to their determination, work ethic and ability to cast their eyes over their entire surroundings. Unlike Collies who have a more fixed eye, the Welsh Sheepdog’s ‘loose-eyed’ gaze kept them aware of potential threats all around them
When returning back from market with a pocketful of money, Welsh Sheepdogs would also guard their owners from highwaymen and thieves looking to snatch up the profits.
Welsh Sheepdogs remain a popular choice for farmers looking for a herding professional. And while traditional Welsh Sheepdogs have been threatened with extinction, they’re now thriving globally. American rangers, like UK and European farmers, have been amazed by their outstanding work rate and endearing qualities.
The Welsh Sheepdog is a
medium sized dog, with a well proportioned body and solid build; they tend
to have a boxy proportion with long strong legs and rounded, padded paws which enable them to travel in a diverse landscape.
These dogs have lovely, expressive faces with a long pointed muzzle and ears that are alert and
pointed, and held high.
This dog has been valued
more for what they can do, rather than their aesthetic appeal; therefore, their coat
can be either short or long, often with a dense undercoat, and they come in the
black, tan, red or blue merle colors with white accents on the body or face.
Welsh Sheepdog puppies may have blue eyes, which change to a warm brown at a more mature age .
Similar breeds to the Welsh Sheepdog include:
In need of constant stimulation and set tasks, the Welsh Sheepdog is not low maintenance to live with. But when it comes to grooming and day-to-day care, it’s pretty easy to keep this dog in good condition. With little patience for pampering, the Welsh Sheepdog can be brushed just once or twice a week to remove dead hair and prevent shedding. Longer-haired varieties might need more brushing than their shorter-haired friends.
Bathing this dog isn’t an issue either. Damp grass, showers of rain and traipsing through streams and floodwater tends to keep these dogs clean. Cleaning muddy paws might be necessary to protect your home. But if a full bath is needed, be sure to use a very mild dog shampoo to maintain the waterproofing qualities of their coat and to prevent dermatological issues and allergies.
Welsh Sheepdog puppies can be trained to sit quietly and wait patiently for their teeth to be brushed and their nails to be clipped. Teeth brushing should take place at least once a week (more if possible) and nail clipping is around every three-to four weeks.
Introducing this grooming routine to an older dog can be more difficult but it’s perfectly possible with patience and plenty of praise. If the dog knows they can go and play afterwards, they’re more likely to behave. Remember, Welsh Sheepdogs are highly intelligent. They just want to run around. Be consistent with your training for best results.
Last but not least, always check your dog’s ears and coat for ticks and parasites. You should also wipe the inner ear gently to prevent any dirt or wax from building up as this could lead to inflammation or infection. Worming may be necessary every six weeks to prevent sheep and other livestock from becoming infected.
Welsh Sheepdogs are considered to be strong, fit, agile and athletic canines who thrive in the great outdoors. But, like all dogs, they can experience health issues. Some of the most common health problems affecting the Welsh Sheepdog include:
Sadly, Hip Dysplasia is not uncommon in herding dogs such as the Welsh Sheepdog and Border Collies. It’s a genetic condition that refers to the malformation of the ball and socket of one or both hip joints. This can lead to pain, restricted movement and a loss of hip function. Because the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint, it’s subjected to painful wear and tear.
Dogs with this condition tend to have rear leg lameness and many mobility issues — such as problems with getting up and jumping.
Elbow Dysplasia is a general term for arthritis in the elbow joint and can cause front leg lameness in canines. Symptoms include limping after exercise, a decreased range in elbow motion, an unwillingness to exercise (which is out of character for the Welsh Sheepdog), an abnormal gait and feet that rotate outwards.
As the name suggests, this is more associated with Collies. However, as a herding breed, Welsh Sheepdogs can also be at risk of Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA). This condition can affect the choroid, sclera and retina of the eye. Severity differs from dog to dog.
Welsh Sheepdogs can be susceptible to Progressive Retinal Atrophy. This is a hereditary condition that can lead to blindness. PRA affects the rod cells in the retina, causing gradual deterioration of sight. A loss of night vision comes first followed by day vision degeneration. As the condition takes hold gradually, Welsh Sheepdogs have a habit of adjusting, using other senses to guide them.
With Welsh Sheepdog costs rising due to sickness, taking out pet insurance is a great way to protect your bank balance.
When it comes to owning a Welsh Sheepdog, finding the right type of foods for their needs is a must. This will depend on Welsh Sheepdog size as well as their age and activity levels. Young working dogs that are outside for most of the day, for instance, will require more energy than a retired dog who is less active or has health problems.
Welsh Sheepdogs enjoy everything from beef and chicken to lamb, turkey and duck. Again, each canine is unique so they might have preferred food brands, blends and consistencies. Sometimes, it’s a case of trial and error. Both gently cooked and shelf-stable dry dog food is suitable for Welsh Sheepdogs.
Find out how to choose the best food for your dog here.
You’ll also find a host of dog food reviews and ratings here, from our online partners, Dog Food Advisor.
Ongoing Welsh Sheepdog costs can be greatly impacted by food type and dietary needs, so this is worth keeping in mind.
Loyal, intelligent and gentle with children, the Welsh Sheepdog loves being included in a wide range of activities. As long as you’re a sporty, on-the-go family who is always walking, cycling and going on adventures, the Welsh Sheepdog will be a good fit. While built to work, the Welsh Sheepdog is affectionate and can build a close bond with humans.
Welsh Sheepdogs are at their happiest when they live an outdoorsy lifestyle with plenty of exercise. They also need toys, games and mental stimulation and are not the type to snuggle up by a fire and sleep all day. As herding animals, they’re a top choice for farmers. But this instinct never dies meaning they might even try to herd the family — particularly young children. Firm but kind training can help break this habit in the house.
As with all breeds, training is crucial to ensure your Welsh Sheepdog is the right fit for your farm, ranch or household. These dogs can quickly learn bad habits and routines, but with tasks, rules and consistency they can be the very best workers and companions.
View our full series of dog training guides here for help and advice. Again, training Welsh Sheepdog puppies early will ensure you enjoy this canine to the max.
The Welsh Sheepdog is a
working dog through and through — at their best when they have a job to
do. Pure energy courses through their veins and for this reason they're best suited to a country setting, where they can work the land or at least be taken for long
country walks.
You should be aware that the Welsh Sheepdog can be a bit strong willed and opinionated and is best with an experienced
owner who can handle them. Without direction, this breed can become wilful. Keep a lid on that energy in a fair, yet firm way.
They'll love to run beside you or your bike, walk
for hours regardless of the weather, and are very adept at gently rounding up
your children!
Their kind nature makes them ideal for a family, but again, keep
this dog busy so they can be at their best.
Being a pet owner is a huge responsibility and one that should be taken seriously. When welcoming a new dog into your home, be it a Welsh Sheepdog or another breed, be sure to find pet insurance plans using Wag! Compare and cover routine vet appointments with a wellness plan.
This will help keep your pet safe and healthy, making it easy to enjoy your furry friend for many years to come.
Written by Wag! Staff
Published: 05/17/2018, edited: 02/27/2024
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my welsh sheepdog has started having fits. What are the likely causes please?
Hi please changeamenden Wales, England after the breed. Wales is not a part of England and is a separate country to England. Many thanks Ann
