Black and Tan Terrier — Breed Guide | OC Pets Health Library

Overview

The Black and Tan Terrier was a broad breed or type of terrier that was one of the earliest terrier breeds. Although it is now extinct, it is believed to be the ancestor of all modern Fell Terrier breeds and the Welsh Terrier, a breed recognised by The Kennel Club.

History

History: Working Fell Terriers (non-Kennel Club working terriers from the rocky Lakeland Fells region of the UK) have always been quite variable, but have always been coloured terriers (tan, black or black and tan), as opposed to the white-coated "foxing terriers" preferred in the south of England.

From the coloured rough-coated Fell Terriers of Cumberland, Westmorland and the Scottish Borders were developed several Kennel Club breeds, including the Lakeland Terrier, the Welsh Terrier, and the Border Terrier.

Every pet is one of a kind. This guide covers what's typical for the breed, but your own dog or cat will have their own personality, quirks and needs — think of it as a friendly starting point, not the final word. Whenever you'd like advice tailored to your companion, the team at OC Pets is always happy to help.

Sources (reused under open licences, with thanks): Wikipedia — “Black and Tan Terrier” (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikidata (CC0) · image (CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons) · Compiled by OC Pets Veterinary Clinic, updated 15-06-2026.