Mary Allen
Introduction: The English White Terrier
The English White Terrier, also known as the Old English Terrier or the White English Terrier, was a breed of dog that was popular in the 19th century. It was a small to medium-sized dog that was bred for vermin control, but also served as a companion animal. Unfortunately, the breed is now extinct, but it had a significant impact on the development of other terrier breeds.
Early Development of the English White Terrier
The English White Terrier is believed to have originated in the 18th century in England, where it was developed through selective breeding of several terrier breeds, including the Manchester Terrier, the Fox Terrier, and the Bull Terrier. Breeders were looking for a dog with a white coat that was small, agile, and fearless, which would make it a good ratter. The breed was also bred for its temperament, as it was intended to be a companion animal as well.
Influential Breeds in the Development of the English White Terrier
The Manchester Terrier, which was a popular breed at the time, was likely the most influential in the development of the English White Terrier. The Manchester Terrier was a small, black and tan terrier that was used for ratting. Breeders crossed the Manchester Terrier with the White English Terrier to create the English White Terrier, which had a white coat and a similar build to the Manchester Terrier. Other breeds that likely played a role in the development of the English White Terrier include the Fox Terrier, the Bull Terrier, and the Whippet.
The Role of Ratting in the English White Terrier’s Development
Ratting was a popular pastime in England in the 19th century, and the English White Terrier was specifically bred for this purpose. The breed was small and agile, which made it well-suited for catching rats and other vermin. Breeders focused on creating a dog that was fearless and determined, as well as one that had a strong prey drive. As a result, the English White Terrier became a popular breed for ratting competitions and was highly valued for its ability to control vermin.
Popularity of the English White Terrier in the Victorian Era
The English White Terrier became very popular in the Victorian era, both as a companion animal and as a working dog. It was highly valued for its loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature, as well as its ability to catch vermin. The breed was also popular among the upper class, who were drawn to its elegant appearance and gentle disposition.
Decline of the English White Terrier in the Early 20th Century
Despite its popularity, the English White Terrier began to decline in the early 20th century. One reason for this was the rise of other terrier breeds, such as the Jack Russell Terrier and the West Highland White Terrier, which were better suited for specific tasks. Additionally, the breed suffered from health problems, including deafness and skin issues, which made it less desirable to breeders.
Possible Reasons for the English White Terrier’s Extinction
The English White Terrier became extinct in the early 20th century, and there are several theories as to why this happened. One theory is that the breed was overbred and suffered from genetic defects, which led to health problems and a decline in popularity. Another theory is that the breed was simply no longer in demand, as other terrier breeds were better suited to specific tasks.
White Terrier Breeds that May Have Descended from the English White Terrier
Several white terrier breeds may have descended from the English White Terrier, including the West Highland White Terrier, the Sealyham Terrier, and the American Eskimo Dog. These breeds share many of the same characteristics as the English White Terrier, including a white coat and a small to medium-sized build.
Efforts to Revive the English White Terrier Breed
There have been several efforts to revive the English White Terrier breed, but none have been successful. Breeders have attempted to recreate the breed using other terrier breeds, but these dogs have not been recognized as true English White Terriers. Some breeders have also attempted to revive the breed using DNA testing and selective breeding, but these efforts have not been successful either.
Characteristics of the English White Terrier
The English White Terrier was a small to medium-sized dog that stood between 10 and 15 inches tall and weighed between 12 and 20 pounds. It had a white, short-haired coat that was smooth and glossy. The breed was known for its loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature, as well as its ability to catch vermin.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the English White Terrier
Although the English White Terrier is now extinct, it had a significant impact on the development of other terrier breeds. Its influence can be seen in breeds like the West Highland White Terrier and the Sealyham Terrier, which share many of the same characteristics as the English White Terrier. Despite its short lifespan, the English White Terrier will always be remembered for its loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature.
References and Further Reading
- "A Brief History of the English White Terrier." English White Terrier Club. https://www.englishwhiteterrierclub.co.uk/history
- "English White Terrier." The Kennel Club. https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/e/white-english-terrier/
- "The English White Terrier." American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/white-english-terrier/
- "The History of White Terriers." White Terrier Club of America. https://www.whiteterrierclubofamerica.org/history-of-white-terriers/