Mary Allen
Introduction: What are English White Terriers?
English White Terriers, also known as the Old English Terriers and White English Terriers, were a breed of small terriers that were originally bred in England in the 18th century. They were known for their distinctive white coat, which was short, fine, and glossy. These dogs were bred for their hunting and ratting skills, and they were popular with both hunters and farmers.
Origins: Ancestors of the English White Terrier
The origins of English White Terriers can be traced back to the early 18th century, when they were developed from a variety of different terrier breeds, including the English Black and Tan Terrier, the Manchester Terrier, and the Fox Terrier. These breeds were crossed to create a small, agile dog that was well-suited for hunting and ratting. The breed was further developed in the 19th century, when breeders began to focus on creating a more refined and elegant dog that was suitable for the show ring.
Development of the English White Terrier breed
In the 19th century, English White Terriers began to gain popularity as a show dog. Breeders focused on creating a more refined and elegant dog, with a smaller head and a more graceful build. The breed was recognized by the Kennel Club in 1874, and was included in the first volume of the Kennel Club Stud Book in 1875.
Popularity in the 19th century
English White Terriers reached the height of their popularity in the 19th century, when they were widely used as both show dogs and working dogs. They were popular with hunters and farmers, who valued their ratting and hunting skills. They were also popular in the show ring, where their elegant and refined appearance made them a favorite of judges and spectators.
Use as a working dog: Ratting and hunting
English White Terriers were primarily used as working dogs, and were valued for their ratting and hunting skills. They were small and agile, and were able to navigate tight spaces to catch rats and other small rodents. They were also used for hunting small game, such as rabbits and foxes.
Decline in popularity and extinction
The popularity of English White Terriers began to decline in the early 20th century, as other breeds began to gain popularity. The breed also began to suffer from health problems, including deafness, skin allergies, and respiratory issues. By the 1930s, the breed had become extremely rare, and by the 1950s, it was considered to be extinct.
Controversy over the breed’s health
English White Terriers were known for their health problems, including deafness, skin allergies, and respiratory issues. Some breeders attempted to address these issues by crossbreeding with other breeds, but this led to controversy and criticism from breed purists.
Revival of the breed through crossbreeding
In the 1960s, a group of breed enthusiasts began to work on reviving the English White Terrier through crossbreeding with other terrier breeds, including the West Highland White Terrier, the Jack Russell Terrier, and the Sealyham Terrier. These efforts were successful, and the breed was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1972.
Modern-day English White Terrier: Characteristics and Temperament
The modern-day English White Terrier is a small, agile dog with a short, fine coat and a distinctive white color. They are energetic and intelligent, and are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. They make excellent family pets, but require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.
English White Terrier Clubs and Associations
There are a number of clubs and associations dedicated to the English White Terrier, including the English White Terrier Club of America and the English White Terrier Association in the United Kingdom. These organizations work to promote and preserve the breed, and provide resources and support to breeders and owners.
Conclusion: The legacy of the English White Terrier
Although the English White Terrier is now extinct as a distinct breed, its legacy lives on through its influence on other terrier breeds, including the West Highland White Terrier and the Jack Russell Terrier. The breed’s distinctive appearance and hunting skills have left a lasting impression on the world of dog breeding.
Further Reading: Resources for learning more about the breed
- English White Terrier Club of America: http://www.englishwhiteterrierclubofamerica.org/
- English White Terrier Association (UK): http://www.englishwhiteterrierassociation.co.uk/
- The English White Terrier: A Complete and Comprehensive Owners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your English White Terrier by Dog Care Professionals: https://www.amazon.com/English-White-Terrier-Comprehensive-Understanding-ebook/dp/B00JL5VVL2/