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Welsh Terrier vs Poodle

Discover the differences between Welsh Terrier and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.

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Welsh Terrier
Wales

Welsh Terrier

Terrier Group
Medium

Energetic, bold, and affectionate, this breed thrives on adventure and companionship. Always eager to play, they bring fun and spirit to any home.

Poodle
Germany/France

Poodle

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Medium

Male:

9–10 kg

Coat:

Wiry, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

8–9 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Medium

Male:

20–32 kg

Coat:

Curly, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–27 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Welsh Terrier

Friendliness
4/5

Enjoys company of people and other dogs

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, eager to solve problems

Energy Level
5/5

Highly active, needs regular daily exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves interactive games and activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to new situations and environments

Poodle

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with family and guests

Intelligence
5/5

Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive playtime

Adaptability
5/5

Easily adjusts to new environments and routines

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Welsh Terrier

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
60–75 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Lens luxation, allergies

Poodle

Grooming:
High grooming needs (at least weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Welsh Terrier

First-time Owner
3/5

Moderately suitable

Independent nature may challenge first-time owners without prior dog experience

Apartment Living
3/5

Possible fit

Adapts to apartments if exercised but may bark when bored

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Excellent companion

High energy matches well with active individuals or families

Kids
4/5

Good with supervision

Generally good with children but needs supervision and training

Multiple Pets
3/5

Needs early socialization

Can be territorial with other pets without proper socialization

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

Dislikes being alone and may develop destructive behaviors if left long hours

Poodle

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.

Apartment Living
4/5

Highly suitable

Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Gets along well

Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Welsh Terrier

  • Alert and effective watchdog instincts
  • Consistently playful and energetic demeanor
  • Generally good with older children
  • Adaptable to city or rural living
  • Low shedding, wiry hypoallergenic coat

Poodle

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
  • Strong bond with family members
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Excellent performance in canine sports

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Welsh Terrier

  • Strong prey drive may chase small animals
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • Needs daily vigorous exercise and mental stimulation
  • May become vocal or bark frequently
  • Prone to digging if bored or unsupervised

Poodle

  • Requires regular professional grooming
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
  • Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health issues

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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