Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier originated in Northumberland, England and was originally bred to hunt vermin and fight in pit sports. Today, they make a loyal and affectionate companion dog.

Bedlington Terrier Breed overview

The Bedlington Terrier is a small, graceful dog with a distinctive lamb-like appearance. They are known for their curly, wooly coat which can be blue, liver, sandy or cream in color. They have a gentle and playful disposition, making them great family pets. However, they have a high prey drive and may not get along well with other small animals, including cats.

Height:
15-16 inches
Weight:
17-23 lbs
Life expectancy:
14-16 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Bedlington Terrier

Training

Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods work well with this breed, as they can be sensitive to harsh discipline. However, they can have a stubborn streak and may require patience and persistence during training.

Health

Bedlington Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, including copper toxicosis, patellar luxation, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help keep your Bedlington Terrier healthy and happy.

Grooming

Due to their unique curly coat, Bedlington Terriers require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. This includes regular haircuts and brushing to prevent matting and tangles. They should also have their ears cleaned regularly and their teeth brushed often to prevent dental issues.

Exercise

Bedlington Terriers are an active breed and require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy playing and running outdoors, but can also adapt well to apartment living as long as they get enough exercise.

Nutrition

Bedlington Terriers require a balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels. High-quality dog food, rich in protein and healthy fats, can provide them with the energy they need. It is important to feed them in appropriate portions and to provide them with plenty of clean water.

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Bedlington Terrier Traits & Characteristics

Bedlington Terriers are small to medium sized dogs, standing around 16-17 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 17-23 pounds. They have a distinctive arched topline, with a long narrow head and round eyes. Their ears are triangular in shape and fold over at the tips. Their legs are slim and straight, and their feet are small and arched. The breed's coat is unique, with a mixture of both soft and harsh hair giving it a crisp, curly look. Bedlington Terriers require regular grooming, including frequent haircuts to maintain their distinctive wooly appearance.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Bedlington Terriers are highly affectionate dogs that enjoy being around their owners and receiving plenty of love and attention. They are gentle and loving by nature, making them a great option for families with children of all ages.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Bedlington Terriers are patient and playful with children, though they can have a tendency to become overly excited during playtime. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, making them a good match for active families.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Bedlington Terriers tend to be reserved around other dogs, and may need to be socialized from an early age to prevent aggression or timidity. With proper training, they can learn to coexist with other pets in the home.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Bedlington Terriers can be wary of strangers and may require socialization training to prevent shyness or aggression. Properly socialized, they can be friendly and curious with new people.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Bedlington Terriers are playful and energetic dogs that enjoy games and physical activity. They benefit from plenty of exercise and have a tendency to become bored or destructive when left alone for long periods of time.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Bedlington Terriers are moderately alert and perceptive, making them a good choice for owners seeking a dog to alert them to incoming visitors or potential threats.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Bedlington Terriers are adaptable dogs that can live comfortably in a variety of environments, including small apartments and larger homes with yards. They are well-suited for owners with an active lifestyle.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Bedlington Terriers are considered moderate shedders, but their curly coat can require regular trimming and grooming to look its best. They may be a better choice for families with mild allergies to pet dander.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Bedlington Terriers require frequent grooming to prevent their curly coat from becoming matted or tangled. Regular haircuts and brushing sessions can help to maintain their unique appearance and ensure their skin and coat remain healthy.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Bedlington Terriers are not known for excessive drooling or slobbering, and tend to keep their mouths closed when not eating or playing.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Bedlington Terriers are medium-sized dogs, weighing between 17 and 23 pounds and standing between 15 and 17 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a distinctive shape and curly coat that sets them apart from other breeds.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Bedlington Terriers are energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and emotional health. They enjoy games and outdoor activities, and are well-suited for owners with an active lifestyle.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Bedlington Terriers require regular exercise and physical activity to maintain their health and well-being. They benefit from daily walks and games of fetch, as well as more structured activities such as agility training or obedience classes.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Bedlington Terriers are not typically used as working dogs, although their high energy levels and intelligence can make them suitable for some jobs such as therapy dogs or search and rescue dogs.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Bedlington Terriers were originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and rodents, and can still exhibit a strong prey drive. Owners should monitor their dogs closely when around small animals or during outdoor activities.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Bedlington Terriers have a high level of physical and mental energy, and require regular exercise and stimulation to maintain their health and happiness. They can become restless and bored if left alone for extended periods of time.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Bedlington Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain conditions such as copper toxicosis, eye problems, and kidney disease. Owners should be aware of potential health risks and monitor their dogs for signs of illness.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Bedlington Terriers have a moderate tendency to gain weight if not provided with sufficient exercise and a healthy diet. Owners should monitor their dogs' weight and provide regular exercise and portion control.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Bedlington Terriers have a moderate tolerance for colder temperatures and may require extra protection or warmth during winter months. Their shape and size can make them prone to catching drafts or experiencing chills.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Bedlington Terriers have a moderate tolerance for warmer temperatures and may require extra cooling or hydration during hot weather. They can become prone to overheating if left in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Bedlington Terriers can live comfortably in apartments or smaller homes, provided they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. They can be prone to destructive behavior if left alone for extended periods of time.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Bedlington Terriers are prone to wanderlust and may try to escape from their surroundings if they become bored or restless. They require sufficient exercise and training to prevent this behavior.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Bedlington Terriers can be sensitive dogs and may require gentle, positive reinforcement training methods to prevent anxiety or timidity. Harsh training methods can cause stress and emotional distress.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Bedlington Terriers can experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time, and may become destructive or vocal in their distress. They benefit from plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, as well as gradual training to adapt to being alone.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Bedlington Terriers tend to bark when they hear unfamiliar or loud noises, but are not excessive barkers by nature. They can learn to control their vocalizations with proper training.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They benefit from training sessions and interactive games that challenge their minds.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Bedlington Terriers are relatively easy to train and have a friendly, gentle demeanor that makes them a good choice for novice owners. They are generally patient and forgiving during training sessions.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods. They benefit from early socialization and obedience training.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Bedlington Terriers are highly affectionate dogs that enjoy being around their owners and receiving plenty of love and attention. They are gentle and loving by nature, making them a great option for families with children of all ages.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Bedlington Terriers are patient and playful with children, though they can have a tendency to become overly excited during playtime. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, making them a good match for active families.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Bedlington Terriers tend to be reserved around other dogs, and may need to be socialized from an early age to prevent aggression or timidity. With proper training, they can learn to coexist with other pets in the home.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Bedlington Terriers can be wary of strangers and may require socialization training to prevent shyness or aggression. Properly socialized, they can be friendly and curious with new people.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Bedlington Terriers are playful and energetic dogs that enjoy games and physical activity. They benefit from plenty of exercise and have a tendency to become bored or destructive when left alone for long periods of time.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Bedlington Terriers are moderately alert and perceptive, making them a good choice for owners seeking a dog to alert them to incoming visitors or potential threats.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Bedlington Terriers are adaptable dogs that can live comfortably in a variety of environments, including small apartments and larger homes with yards. They are well-suited for owners with an active lifestyle.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Bedlington Terriers are considered moderate shedders, but their curly coat can require regular trimming and grooming to look its best. They may be a better choice for families with mild allergies to pet dander.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Bedlington Terriers require frequent grooming to prevent their curly coat from becoming matted or tangled. Regular haircuts and brushing sessions can help to maintain their unique appearance and ensure their skin and coat remain healthy.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Bedlington Terriers are not known for excessive drooling or slobbering, and tend to keep their mouths closed when not eating or playing.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Bedlington Terriers are medium-sized dogs, weighing between 17 and 23 pounds and standing between 15 and 17 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a distinctive shape and curly coat that sets them apart from other breeds.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Bedlington Terriers are energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and emotional health. They enjoy games and outdoor activities, and are well-suited for owners with an active lifestyle.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Bedlington Terriers require regular exercise and physical activity to maintain their health and well-being. They benefit from daily walks and games of fetch, as well as more structured activities such as agility training or obedience classes.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Bedlington Terriers are not typically used as working dogs, although their high energy levels and intelligence can make them suitable for some jobs such as therapy dogs or search and rescue dogs.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Bedlington Terriers were originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and rodents, and can still exhibit a strong prey drive. Owners should monitor their dogs closely when around small animals or during outdoor activities.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Bedlington Terriers have a high level of physical and mental energy, and require regular exercise and stimulation to maintain their health and happiness. They can become restless and bored if left alone for extended periods of time.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Bedlington Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain conditions such as copper toxicosis, eye problems, and kidney disease. Owners should be aware of potential health risks and monitor their dogs for signs of illness.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Bedlington Terriers have a moderate tendency to gain weight if not provided with sufficient exercise and a healthy diet. Owners should monitor their dogs' weight and provide regular exercise and portion control.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Bedlington Terriers have a moderate tolerance for colder temperatures and may require extra protection or warmth during winter months. Their shape and size can make them prone to catching drafts or experiencing chills.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Bedlington Terriers have a moderate tolerance for warmer temperatures and may require extra cooling or hydration during hot weather. They can become prone to overheating if left in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Bedlington Terriers can live comfortably in apartments or smaller homes, provided they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. They can be prone to destructive behavior if left alone for extended periods of time.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Bedlington Terriers are prone to wanderlust and may try to escape from their surroundings if they become bored or restless. They require sufficient exercise and training to prevent this behavior.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Bedlington Terriers can be sensitive dogs and may require gentle, positive reinforcement training methods to prevent anxiety or timidity. Harsh training methods can cause stress and emotional distress.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Bedlington Terriers can experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time, and may become destructive or vocal in their distress. They benefit from plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, as well as gradual training to adapt to being alone.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Bedlington Terriers tend to bark when they hear unfamiliar or loud noises, but are not excessive barkers by nature. They can learn to control their vocalizations with proper training.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They benefit from training sessions and interactive games that challenge their minds.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Bedlington Terriers are relatively easy to train and have a friendly, gentle demeanor that makes them a good choice for novice owners. They are generally patient and forgiving during training sessions.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods. They benefit from early socialization and obedience training.

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History of the Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier was originally bred for their hunting and fighting abilities. They were used to hunt small game such as rabbits, rats, and even badgers. They were also used in dog fighting, where their agility and tenacity made them fierce competitors. In the 18th century, the breed was developed into a more refined and elegant companion dog by upper-class families in England. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

Bedlington Terrier Puppies

Bedlington Terrier puppies are lively and playful, with a curious and adventurous spirit. They should be socialized from an early age to prevent shyness or aggression. As with all puppies, they need plenty of exercise and playtime to stimulate their growing bodies and minds.