Overview
The Welsh Sheepdog is a medium-sized herding dog from Wales. It is bred for working ability rather than appearance, so it varies in build, colour and size.
It is collie-like, with a longer leg, broader chest and wider muzzle than the Border Collie. It is extremely active and clever, and needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation if kept as a pet.
History
Wales once had many local sheepdogs. In the 18th century drovers took five or six dogs with them to herd, guard against highwaymen and catch game on the road to market.
By the 1940s only a few types remained, and the old Black-and-Tan Sheepdog and Welsh Hillman were almost gone. Border Collie crossing diluted the native type, but recent efforts aim to maintain the Welsh Sheepdog as a distinct variety.
Appearance
Welsh Sheepdogs are of collie type, usually black and white, red and white or tricolour, and merle can occur on any of these. The coat may be short or fairly long, and the ears are pricked with tips usually folded.
In the 1940s they stood about 46 cm tall and weighed from roughly 16 kg in the leggier North Wales type to about 20 kg in the sturdier southern dogs.
Temperament
They are intelligent, energetic and independent workers. Usually loose-eyed, they do not fix stock with a hard stare like the Border Collie, and can work without close direction.
They are happiest with a job, and can suit active homes that supply plenty of exercise and mental challenge.
Care and exercise
A Welsh Sheepdog needs a lot of daily exercise and mental work, such as herding, agility, obedience or tracking. Bored dogs may become restless or destructive.
Grooming depends on coat length, but regular brushing is generally enough.
