Known for their distinctive appearance, Bedlington Terriers are a unique breed of Terrier. They typically weigh between 17 to 23 pounds and stand at an average height of 15.5 to 16.5 inches. With their elegant features, slender build, and thin head, these Terriers have a special charm. Their coat, arched back, and tasseled ears add to their distinct look. Despite their appearance, Bedlington Terriers have a kind expression on their faces and are neither timid nor anxious. They are known to be lovely, entertaining, and devoted members of the family.
Bedlington Terriers possess the typical energy of a Terrier and the agility of a small coursing Hound. They are highly active and have great endurance. These dogs are responsive to training and generally get along well with children and other dogs, as long as they are closely supervised. While they are generally considered a healthy breed, some Bedlington Terriers may experience copper toxicosis. Their non-shedding coat requires regular grooming with clippers to maintain its shape.
Below, we look at Bedlington Terrier dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Bedlington Terrier, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Bedlington Terriers!
| Dog Breed | Bedlington Terrier |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 17-23 lbs (average) |
| Height | 15-17″ (average) |
| Location | England |
| Ancestry | Terrier |
| Date of Origin | 1800s |
| Group | Hunting Vermin |
| Life Expectancy | 14-16 years |
| Price | $1800 – $2000 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Bedlington Terrier is believed to have originated from breeds like the Dandie Dinmont and the Otterhound, but its exact origin is unclear. In the late 1700s, a type of Terrier known as the Rothbury Terrier or Northumberland Fox Terrier was developed for hunting in the north of England. Joseph Ainsley, a resident of Bedlington, bred two Rothbury Terriers in 1825, resulting in the creation of the Bedlington Terrier. Although there are suggestions that breeds like the Whippet were occasionally crossed with the Bedlington Terrier, there are no available records to confirm this.
The Bedlington Terrier was highly skilled in hunting various game such as rabbits, otters, foxes, badgers, and rats. Its agility and hunting abilities caught the attention of local squires, who started keeping their own Bedlington Terriers. Eventually, the breed gained popularity and began to be shown in the late 19th century, finding its place in wealthy households. The Bedlington Terrier’s popularity transcended social boundaries, and by the mid-1800s, they were participating in dog shows. The National Bedlington Terrier Club was formed in England in 1877, and the American Kennel Club registered its first Bedlington Terrier, Ananias, in 1886.
🐕 Bedlington Terrier Appearance
The Bedlington Terrier breed has a distinct shape and is somewhat longer than it is tall. The feet of the Bedlington Terrier are long and have thick pads that feel smooth. They appear to be lean and strong, and their rear legs are longer than their front legs. This spirited dog has a slender, rounded head that is usually tied in a topknot. The breed’s triangular ears are slender with rounded ends and have tiny, almond-shaped eyes. The ears have a velvet-like touch and are coated in fine hair that grows into a little tassel at the end. Bedlington Terriers have lengthy jaws with sharp teeth that meet in a level or scissors bite, as well as a snout with clearly defined nostrils. The Bedlington Terrier has a long neck and a high-set head. Low-set and ending in a point, the tail is low-set.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Blue, Sable, Brown |
⚡ Fun Fact: Bedlington Terrier dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers are often believed to be calm house dogs and are thought to be sociable and loyal. Dogs of this breed often don’t start fights, but they also aren’t scared of other dogs. This vivacious Terrier is prone to chasing small animals when outside, but when properly socialized with indoor pets, they get along with them. They normally enjoy spending time with kids and are often sociable to strangers when they are loved and treated as a member of the family.
🤝 Are Bedlington Terriers Friendly or Aggressive?
Bedlington Terrier dogs are known for getting along well with other pets, making them a suitable choice for families with multiple animals. They are also friendly towards strangers, making them approachable and sociable dogs. Bedlington Terriers are particularly good with children, making them a great breed for families with kids. They have an average level of friendliness towards cats and are generally dog-friendly, which makes them a good fit for households with other dogs or for those interested in participating in dog meetups. Additionally, Bedlington Terriers are often recommended for elderly individuals, as they can provide companionship and are generally well-suited for a more relaxed lifestyle.
This breed is known for being:
- Playful
- Energetic
- Intelligent
- Affectionate
- Reliable
- Loyal
- Devoted
🐩 Bedlington Terrier Care & Maintenance
The Bedlington Terrier has little to no shedding, making it a suitable choice for allergy sufferers. Clipping is necessary almost every month and a half, thus grooming is considerable. This breed of dog requires twice-weekly combing and frequent cleaning of the ears’ inside to prevent infection. The Bedlington Terrier’s coat can get dull if cleaned too regularly, but its skin won’t dry out with frequent bathing. This energetic dog needs daily exercise because it helps him release some of his pent-up energy. This might involve taking a lengthy stroll or letting the dog run free inside a fence. This inquisitive dog may cause trouble if not given enough exercise.
Bedlington Terrier dogs have a very low shedding level, meaning they do not lose much hair. This is great news for those who are concerned about their furniture or car getting covered in dog hair. If you have a Bedlington Terrier puppy, you can relax knowing that you won’t have to constantly clean up after them. These dogs are an ideal choice for people who cannot tolerate dog hair.
In addition to their minimal shedding, Bedlington Terriers also have specific bathing needs. It is recommended to give them a bath every 3-4 weeks. This regular bathing routine helps to keep their coat clean and healthy. By following this bathing schedule, you can ensure that your Bedlington Terrier looks and feels great.
Overall, if you are looking for a dog that sheds very little and requires bathing every few weeks, a Bedlington Terrier could be the perfect choice for you. Their low shedding nature and specific bathing needs make them a great option for individuals who want a clean and low-maintenance pet.
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.5 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or roughly $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Bedlington Terrier dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 6 miles per week, which equates to about 45 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Bedlington Terrier dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Bedlington Terrier Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed can be:
- Renal Cortical Hypoplasia
- Copper Toxicosis
While minor concerns include:
- Distichiasis
- Retinal Dysplasia
🤧 Important: Is Bedlington Terrier hypoallergenic? Yes.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Bedlington Terrier.
⚡ Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Bedlington Terrier a great choice for families with young children?
The Bedlington Terrier’s gentle nature and loyalty make it a great choice for families with young children. They are known to be friendly and get along well with children, making them a suitable companion for kids.
Is the Bedlington Terrier breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Bedlington Terrier breed is considered suitable for apartment living. They are generally quiet house dogs and do not require a large amount of space to be happy. However, they still need regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
How much exercise does a Bedlington Terrier require compared to other breeds?
Bedlington Terriers require a moderate amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. They have great endurance and are very active, but they do not need excessive amounts of exercise. Regular walks and playtime should be sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Is the Bedlington Terrier breed known for being good with other pets?
Bedlington Terriers are generally good with other pets when they are appropriately socialized. They can get along well with indoor pets, including cats, if introduced properly. However, their natural hunting instincts may lead them to chase small animals when outside.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bedlington Terrier?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bedlington Terrier include the Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds also have non-shedding coats and require regular grooming to maintain their appearance.
What are the common health issues that Bedlington Terriers are prone to?
Bedlington Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but they are prone to a condition called copper toxicosis. This is a genetic disorder that affects their liver’s ability to metabolize copper, leading to copper buildup and potential liver damage. Regular veterinary check-ups and a proper diet can help manage this condition.
Are Bedlington Terriers known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Bedlington Terriers are known to be intelligent and responsive, making them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. They have a desire to please their owners and generally respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
Are Bedlington Terriers more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Bedlington Terriers, like any breed, can experience separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. However, they are not known to be particularly prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds. Proper training and gradually increasing alone time can help prevent or manage separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Bedlington Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, there are other dog breeds similar to the Bedlington Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies. These include the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Portuguese Water Dog, all of which have non-shedding coats that produce less dander, making them hypoallergenic.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Bedlington Terrier are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Small-sized dogs similar to the Bedlington Terrier, such as the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, are best for individuals or families with limited space. These breeds do well in apartments or smaller living spaces.
Is the Bedlington Terrier breed known to be good with children with special needs?
Bedlington Terriers can be good with children with special needs, as they are generally gentle and patient. However, as with any dog, it is important to supervise interactions between the dog and the child to ensure safety and proper behavior.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Bedlington Terrier?
The grooming needs of Bedlington Terriers are higher compared to some other breeds. They have a non-shedding single coat that requires regular brushing, clipping, and scissoring to maintain its appearance. Professional grooming may be necessary to keep their coat in good condition.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Bedlington Terrier dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
