The overall lamblike look of this breed is very peculiar and always for calls attention. Although this is considered a rare breed their furry appearance in contrast with their very alert and inquisitive personality has been attracting people that want to have this dog for years.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: England
Used for: Hunting,Fighting,Companion
Average Life Span: 14-16 years
Color: Blue, sandy, liver or the combination of these
Coat: Thin, short, curly hair that doesn’t shed
Average Height: 15-17 inches at the shoulder
Average Weight: 17-23 pounds
Group: Terriers
History and Domestication
Bedlington Terriers origin is in the north of England, in Northumberland country. The breed’s original name was Rothbury Terrier, a district on the English border and it was renamed in 1825 after the Bedlington Mining Shire. Some believe the breed was obtained after crossing Otterhounds and Dandie Dinmont Terriers and they were originally used for retrieving, pointing and tracking in hunting expeditions due to their keen sense of smell but their use was extended after they became favorites of workers in racing competitions. They first joined other breeds in shows during those years as well. In 1886 the the breed was registered in the American Kennel Club and in 1877 the first National Bedlington Terrier Club was founded. Their popularity spiked in the 1940’s and they became famous chic after the Rockeffeller’s were seeing pretty much everywhere with their terriers. Rock Ridge Night Rocket owned by William Rockeffeller even won the Westminster in 1948. Actor Boris Karloff also loved the breed and had different Bedlington Terriers during his Hollywood career.
Standard Physical Characteristics
Bedlington Terriers have a long narrow head with a muzzle with no stop. The small and oval shaped eyes have a very soft expression. The ears have a triangular shape and rounded ends with a little hairball. The arched back and belly give an impression on a very fit dog. The front legs are straight and shorter than the back legs. The tail is low and in combination of the strong agile legs makes them excellent swimmers. These dogs don’t shed during the year and are ideal for people with allergies. They don’t bark too much but when they do, they almost sound like hounds.
Care, Grooming and Health
5% of this dog breed has inherited liver disease scientifically called Copper Storage Disease. They also suffer from hereditary kidney problems, PRA, thyroid and eye problems. Checking your dog regularly can make a big difference. This breed needs constant grooming to keep their cute appearance.
Living Conditions
Bedlington Terriers will do okay in an apartment or without a yard but enough exercise needs to be provided like daily long walks because they are very active indoors. Even if they have a yard they can’t be outdoors the whole day and it also need to be fenced because they are very fast chasers. They like to dig holes, run and play but they also love to be couch potatoes after they get enough of outdoors.
Temperament
Bedlington Terriers are very intelligent and with that comes relatively easy training that makes them perform even better if they think everything was their idea. Positive reinforcement can do the trick as well. Forcing them to do something will not help. It will only bring their stubborn behavior patterns. They love being the center of attention that’s why they do really good in shows. They are excellent with children but can be hostile with other pets specially male dogs. They need to socialize since they are little and it will be essential for their future personality. Take the dog to public places like dog parks or beaches will also do. They love children and are enthusiastic and playful but like every other dog they always need to be supervised.
