Old English Terrier Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering adding a furry companion to your family and wondering if an Old English Terrier might be the right breed for you? These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature. With their distinctive shaggy coat and playful personality, Old English Terriers make great pets for families looking for a fun-loving and energetic companion. But before you bring home an Old English Terrier, it’s important to understand their unique needs and personality traits to ensure that they are a good fit for your lifestyle.

Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: England
Average Size:35-40 cm
Average Weight:14-18 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Old English Terrier, also known as the Black and Tan Terrier, is a breed of dog that originated in England. The breed was developed in the 18th century for the purpose of ratting and fox hunting. The Old English Terrier is a small, agile dog with a muscular build and a short, smooth coat. They are known for their tenacity and courage, making them excellent hunters and companions.

The exact origins of the Old English Terrier are unclear, but it is believed that the breed was developed from a variety of terrier breeds, including the Manchester Terrier, the Fox Terrier, and the Bull Terrier. The breed was popular among working-class people in England, who used them for hunting and ratting. The Old English Terrier was also used in dog fighting, which was a popular pastime in England at the time.

In the mid-19th century, the Old English Terrier was crossed with the Whippet to create a faster and more agile dog for ratting. This new breed was known as the Manchester Terrier, and it quickly became more popular than the Old English Terrier. The Old English Terrier almost became extinct, but a few dedicated breeders kept the breed alive.

In the early 20th century, the Old English Terrier was recognized as a distinct breed by the Kennel Club in England. The breed was given the name Black and Tan Terrier, which reflected its distinctive coat color. The breed was also recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904, but it was later merged with the Manchester Terrier. Today, the Old English Terrier is a rare breed, and it is not recognized by most kennel clubs.

Despite its rarity, the Old English Terrier remains a beloved breed among those who appreciate its history and unique characteristics. The breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and courage, and it makes an excellent companion for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. While the Old English Terrier may not be as well-known as some other terrier breeds, it has a rich history and a devoted following that ensures its continued existence.

Size and Breed Category

The Old English Terrier is a medium-sized breed that typically weighs between 14-18 kg and stands at a height of 35-45 cm at the shoulder. They have a muscular build with a broad chest and strong legs, making them well-suited for their original purpose as a working dog. Their coat is short and wiry, and can come in a variety of colours including black, brown, and brindle. Despite their name, the Old English Terrier is not actually an ancient breed, but rather a relatively new one that was developed in the 1970s by crossing several different terrier breeds.

The Old English Terrier falls into the terrier breed category, which is known for their tenacity, energy, and intelligence. They were originally bred for hunting and vermin control, and as such, they have a strong prey drive and a tendency to be independent thinkers. They are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, and make excellent family pets for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to train and socialise them properly. Due to their high energy levels, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Old English Terrier is typically short and dense, providing a smooth and sleek appearance. The fur is often black or dark brown in colour, with some dogs having white markings on their chest and feet. The fur is also known to be weather-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The texture of the fur is coarse and wiry, providing a protective layer against the elements. The Old English Terrier’s fur requires minimal grooming, with occasional brushing to remove any loose hair.

The Old English Terrier’s fur can also come in a variety of other colours, including shades of grey, blue, and fawn. Some dogs may have a combination of colours, such as black and tan or brindle. The fur can also have a glossy sheen, adding to the dog’s overall appearance. The Old English Terrier’s fur is an important aspect of the breed’s history, as it was originally bred for its ability to hunt and protect livestock. Today, the breed is known for its loyalty and affectionate nature, making it a popular choice for families.

Termperament and Trainability

Old English Terriers are known for their lively and energetic temperament. They are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. These dogs are very playful and love to interact with their owners, making them great companions for families with children. However, their high energy levels can sometimes make them a bit too boisterous for very young children or elderly individuals. Old English Terriers are also known for their strong prey drive, which means they may not be suitable for homes with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits.

When it comes to trainability, Old English Terriers are generally quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new things and are eager to please their owners. However, they can sometimes be a bit stubborn and independent, which means they may require a bit of patience and persistence when it comes to training. Old English Terriers are also known for their strong protective instincts, which means they may need to be socialized early on to prevent them from becoming overly protective or aggressive towards strangers. Overall, with the right training and socialization, Old English Terriers can make wonderful and loyal companions for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly care for them.

Known Health Conditions

Old English Terriers are prone to a number of health conditions, including hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This condition can cause pain and discomfort, and in severe cases, it can lead to arthritis. Another common health issue in Old English Terriers is patellar luxation, which is a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. This can cause lameness and pain, and in severe cases, it may require surgery to correct. Additionally, Old English Terriers are prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss. These allergies can be caused by a variety of factors, including food, pollen, and dust mites.

Old English Terriers are also at risk for a number of eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens in the eye, which can cause vision loss. Glaucoma is a condition where the pressure in the eye increases, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness. Progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative condition that affects the retina, which can cause vision loss and eventually blindness. In addition to these eye conditions, Old English Terriers are also prone to ear infections, which can be caused by a buildup of wax or bacteria in the ear canal. These infections can cause pain, itching, and discharge from the ear.

Openness to Strangers

The Old English Terrier is a breed that is known for its friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is always eager to meet new people and make new friends. This trait makes them an excellent choice for families who enjoy having guests over or for those who live in busy neighbourhoods. The Old English Terrier is not only friendly towards humans but also towards other animals. They are known to get along well with other dogs and cats, making them a great addition to multi-pet households.

In addition to their friendly nature, the Old English Terrier is also a very curious breed. They love to explore their surroundings and are always eager to learn new things. This trait makes them an excellent choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or camping. The Old English Terrier is also a very intelligent breed, which makes them easy to train. They are quick learners and are always eager to please their owners. This trait makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners who may not have a lot of experience with training dogs.

Playfulness Level

The Old English Terrier is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. Whether it’s playing fetch, chasing after a ball, or simply running around in circles, these dogs are always up for a good time. They are also very social animals and enjoy spending time with their owners and other dogs. This makes them a great choice for families with children or other pets. Overall, the Old English Terrier is a fun-loving and playful breed that is sure to bring joy and laughter to any household.

Despite their small size, the Old English Terrier is a highly active and energetic breed. They require plenty of exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. This means that they are not well-suited to apartment living and are better suited to homes with large yards or access to open spaces. However, with the right amount of exercise and stimulation, these dogs can make great companions for people of all ages. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a great choice for people who enjoy teaching their dogs new tricks and commands. Overall, the Old English Terrier is a playful and active breed that requires plenty of attention and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Old English Terriers have a friendly and affectionate nature, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are highly energetic and love to play, which can help keep children active and engaged. Their intelligence and trainability also make them a good choice for families with children who want to teach their pet new tricks. Additionally, their short, wiry coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance pet for busy families.

Exercise Needs

Old English Terriers require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As an active breed, they need at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, which can be achieved through a combination of walks, runs, and playtime. It is important to note that their exercise needs may vary depending on their age, health, and individual temperament. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer to determine the appropriate exercise routine for your Old English Terrier.

In addition to physical exercise, Old English Terriers also benefit from mental stimulation. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new tricks and participating in interactive games. Providing them with puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses can help keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom. It is also important to socialize them with other dogs and people to prevent behavioral issues such as aggression and anxiety. Overall, Old English Terriers thrive in an active and stimulating environment that meets their exercise and mental needs.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Old English Terriers have been known to coexist peacefully with other animals in the household. They are generally friendly and sociable, and with proper socialization and training, they can learn to get along with other pets such as cats and rabbits. However, as with any breed, individual temperament and personality can vary, and it is important to introduce them to other animals slowly and carefully to ensure a positive outcome.

Housing Requirements

Old English Terriers require a living space that is spacious enough for them to move around freely. They are an active breed that needs plenty of exercise, so a house with a garden or access to a park is ideal. The garden should be securely fenced to prevent the dog from escaping, as they have a tendency to chase after small animals. The house should have enough space for the dog to have its own bed and toys, as well as a designated area for feeding. It is important to note that Old English Terriers are prone to separation anxiety, so it is recommended that they are not left alone for long periods of time.

Old English Terriers require a balanced diet that is appropriate for their size and activity level. They should be fed twice a day, with the amount of food depending on their age, weight, and activity level. It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity. They also require regular grooming, including brushing their coat and trimming their nails. Old English Terriers are prone to certain health issues, such as allergies and skin problems, so it is important to keep up with their veterinary check-ups and vaccinations.

Summary

Old English Terriers make great pets for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They are energetic and require regular exercise, but are also loyal and affectionate companions. With proper training and socialization, they can get along well with children and other pets. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them easy to train, and their small size makes them suitable for living in smaller homes or apartments. Overall, Old English Terriers can make wonderful pets for those who are willing to provide them with the attention and exercise they need.

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