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Bedlington Terrier Dogs
Breed Rating (3 Reviews)
| Appearance | |
| Friendliness | |
| Hardiness | |
| Garden |
History
The Bedlington is a small breed of Terrier named after the mining town of Bedlington in North East England. They were bred to hunt vermin in mines, but soon became adept at catching rabbits, fox, badger and otters. It is said they are closely related to Whippets, Dandie Dinmont Terriers and Otterhounds. They love water and are powerful swimmers, comparable to other water dogs such as the Newfoundland. By the 1800's, they became more popular with the upper classes and were soon gracing the show ring.
Behaviour
The Bedlington is feisty, affectionate and loyal. One of the least Terrier-like of all Terriers, they do have a tenacious instinct when it comes to small furry things, but are calm and an ideal pet. They like people and are happiest when curled up on the sofa for cuddles on your lap. Described as a 'lamb dog', the breed does resemble a lamb due to its unusual coat. They are quiet house dogs who are good with strangers and usually excited when anyone comes to the door. Good with children, they are usually patient and rarely snap. However, the terrier instinct will kick in if they are unhappy about a situation. For all it's soft, quiet appearance, they will not be bullied by other dogs and will fight if they feel threatened. They are fearless and plucky and can be incredibly stubborn when they want to be, but form a close bound with their owners and like to please you (if they are in the mood for it). They need a fair amount of exercise, but can be lazy, much preferring a doze of the sofa. They aren't the easiest to train and recall can be a problem once they get a scent. They are fast runners and can bolt at the smell of a rabbit or rat. Best walked in a secure area or on lead, just to be safe or you will find yourself trying to get them out of a rabbit hole on the other side of the field.
The coat requires regular grooming or stripping to keep it in top condition. They are classed as a non shedding breed. The only real health issue is Copper Toxicosis which is more common in the breed than most others. Generally they are a hardy little dog.
Temperament
Bedlington Terriers have a companionable and loyal temperament. Don't let their size or lamb like a appearance fool you these are tough little dogs. Bred to hunt vermin such as rats or badgers but since becoming more popular as a show or companion dog they have not lost all of their hunting instincts.
Be careful with them around cats and make sure they get plenty of exercise, this breed will do best in families with older children.
Health Problems
Health problems that may affect Bedlington Terriers include copper toxicosis (a copper storage disorder which can be fatal), retinal dysplasia (folding of retinal tissue that can cause blindness) and renal cortical hypoplasia (underdeveloped kidneys that will worsen in time).
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
- Weight: 7 - 10 kg
- Height: 15 - 16.5"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Medium - Hypoallergenic
- Grooming Requirements: More than once per week
- Town or Country: Either
- Minimum Home Size: Small House
- Minimum Garden Size: Small to Medium Garden
- Breed Type: Pest Control Dog
- Size: Medium
- Energy Level: Medium
- Exercise Required: Up to 1 hour
More to love
Bedlington Terrier Pictures
Latest Reviews For Bedlington Terrier (3 of 3)
Best dogs ever - Pauline,
We have a blue bedlington girl who is the most affectionate lovable dog ever. If she sees a cat though, or smells a fox or rabbit she's a true terrier and would love to hunt it down. She can be stubborn and likes go HER way when out for a walk , she's also very inquisitive and checks out every driveway to see if there's anyone there who will make a fuss of her. Super dog!
Beddlington - Mark,
We have a 2 year old blue Beddlington called Dave they are fantastic dogs so much fun to have around he loves to play with our granchildren and very friendly to all who approches him.
friend for life - Maureen,
I have two beddlinton terriers . A liver colour and a Blue. Three years old. Just love them.