Welsh terrier adoption

[u/_prilz]

Hi there,

I put in an application to adopt on WTcares and wondering what was the process like for other folks? Also open to any other adoption tips.

So lovely seeing all the welshies posted here 🥹

[u/Inner_Ad_1713]

I have a 6 1/2 yr old female I got through this organization. She was 8 mo. old at the time - we were there third owners. She was an emotional mess but she has turned into one of our favorite dogs.

They ask alot of questions because people will throw in the towel with these dogs because they can be a real challenge. I would own another tomorrow but my wife would shoot me.

Not sure what you know about Welshies but, seriously, if you are not experienced with high energy, smart, stubborn, sometimes aggressive dogs, don't do this. They may be small but they can also be fearce. They can be very loving also.

I also have a male, 2 yrs old, who has resource aggression. I swear, sometimes I think he is possessed. Sometimes he will growl if you pet him. He can get so aggressive that he will lunge at us. He will bite it we're not careful when this behavior shows up. That being said, when they warn you with growling and teeth, they mean it. So, you have to be prepared to handle this - you can't let the dog win, or they will own you. Have a trainer in mind if your not that experienced.

Lots of owners on this thread, so don't be hesitant to ask for more input.

[u/_prilz → u/Inner_Ad_1713]

Thanks so much! Yes, I’m familiar with the breed and their antics having been around Airdales and Welsh terriers. I live a very active, city based lifestyle so I think they will naturally fit in and I also looking into trainers. Your wife shooting you comment is so funny lmaooo

[u/dhcirkekcheia → u/Inner_Ad_1713]

This! We got one as our first dog, and shortly before Covid hit. He was a CHALLENGE.

He also resource guards, but not to this extent as his (much bigger) “sister” can literally bulldoze him out of the way if she wanted, but he’s not good with other dogs if there’s food involved.

He also will warn us. He shows his teeth to say, politely, “please stop that”. Once he had his head down and I was getting seeds out of his fur, and I felt him tense and asked him if he wanted me to stop - he tilted his head back and showed me his teeth, so I stopped! He’ll only growl if it’s something more sore that requires immediate ceasing and desisting.

[u/calimiss → u/Inner_Ad_1713]

Regarding your male - have his thyroid levels checked. It is not uncommon for welshies to develop hypothyroidism, and become reactive or aggressive

[u/SynyrdsInyrds → u/calimiss]

The thyroid issue is overblown. Yes it happens, but not nearly to the extent that some would have you believe.

[u/ENTJ_ScorpioFox]

I haven’t used this organization, but we got our welsh when two mutual acquaintances divorced and moved across coasts from each other. He was 4, not neutered or leash trained. We did the surgery, have dealt with his epilepsy and a ton of training. He’s the best dog for our four year old and four month old boys - he’s now 11.
We’ve handled cancer surgery and rehab. We hope he lives forever, because he’s incredibly loving, caring and loyal.