Requirements
Indoor
Welsh Terriers can be rowdy indoors, but with plenty of exercise and an acceptance of the fact that they will likely use your furniture as a springboard, Welshies make loving indoor companions. They may adapt to apartment living, but access to the outdoors and an area to run off energy is necessary. They are terriers, so barking is to be expected.
Outdoor
Time outdoors is a top priority for the Welsh Terrier, but they shouldn't be expected to live outdoors full time. Neither should they be trusted outdoors alone for any amount of time as they have a propensity to wander. They have a wiry, weather-resistant coat that can manage inclement weather, but it's not made for full-time outdoor living. As terriers, they also possess a love of digging and can excavate a lawn in no time.
Exercise
Outdoor exercise—30 minutes to an hour per day—is necessary to keep the Welsh Terrier happy and healthy. They can get some of their exercise through indoor play, but outdoor romps are necessary to prevent unruly behavior inside.
Endurance
Welsh Terriers were built for work, and their high endurance has stuck with them throughout centuries. They've got the stamina to play all day, and then some.
Activity distance rating
- Running Miles: Welsh Terriers are often able to manage runs of three to five miles, if well-conditioned.
- Hiking Miles: An adult Welsh Terrier may be able to hike up to eight miles, but they have a high prey drive and may wander, so leashes are recommended.
Food
The general recommendation for how much high-quality dry dog food to feed an average weight Welsh Terrier is ¾ to 1 cup per day, split between two meals.
While terriers tend to display food guarding behaviors, these behaviors are not more prominent in the Welsh Terrier than in other breeds. Regardless, children should never be allowed to touch or remove food while any dog is eating.
Alone Time
Welsh Terriers require plenty of exercise and play throughout the day. With at least an hour of exercise, and plenty of attention during the day, they can be left alone for five to eight hours during the day. They are people-oriented, energetic dogs—hiring a dog walker will help give them a break to burn some energy during the day. Crate training can help prevent destructive behaviors while unsupervised.