Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers are distinctive small to medium-sized dogs with a unique sheep-like appearance and a lively, fun-loving, affectionate personality. Originally bred to catch small game, they are adaptable companions that form strong bonds with their family. They thrive in homes with active owners who provide plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation.
| Recommended for | Active families and individuals |
| Breed Classification | Terrier group |
| Other names | Rothbury Terrier , Rodbery Terrier, Rothbury's Lamb |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Temperament | Intelligent, Affectionate, Good-tempered, Spirited |
| Intelligence | High |
| Tendency to bark | Moderate, but can be vocal if bored or not properly stimulated |
| Maintenance Level | Moderate grooming needs, moderate food costs |
| Health Risk | This breed has an around average probability of having health issues in its lifetime, hence it is one of the more affordable breeds to insure. |
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Breed history of Bedlington Terriers
The origins of the Bedlington Terrier trace back to the mining towns of Northumberland, England. Originally called the Rothbury Terrier, the breed was developed in the early 1800s to help miners and hunters control vermin and hunt rabbits. The Bedlington’s speed, stamina, and determined nature made it a valuable companion in these demanding, working-class environments.
Its likely ancestry includes a mix of Whippet, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and Otterhound, which contributed to its agility and unique hunting skills.
The breed was shaped by the harsh conditions of northern England, where Bedlington Terriers thrived in the tough, industrial landscapes. Their distinctive lamb-like appearance, with soft, curly fur, set them apart from other terriers.
Over time, they became known not only for their functionality but also for their charming and elegant looks, making them desirable companions as well as working dogs. By the mid-19th century, Bedlington Terriers gained popularity as dog shows and among the upper class, who admired their distinctive appearance and lively demeanour.
As hunting declined in the 20th century, the Bedlington Terrier’s role shifted, and it became more commonly seen as a family pet and show dog. Organisations such as the Bedlington Terrier Club of America and the National Bedlington Terrier Association in the UK played a key role in preserving the breed’s unique qualities.
Physical description of Bedlington Terriers
The Bedlington Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog with a distinctive lamb-like appearance. With a slim, deep-set head topped by its signature topknot of smooth fur, the Bedlington has an alert expression that is enhanced by its almond-shaped eyes and triangular ears. The graceful, curved back and sleek and muscular frame impart an elegant yet athletic look. Bedlingtons are sturdy and agile, bred for both speed and endurance, reflecting their working dog heritage.
One of the breed’s standout features is its unique curly coat, which combines smooth and rough textures. This coat is usually kept in a short style and requires regular grooming to maintain its distinctive feature. Though commonly seen in white, Bedlington Terriers come in various colours, including blue, liver, and sandy, often with darker markings. Their coat not only provides protection from the elements but also feels soft to the touch, adding to the breed’s distinctiveness.
| Weight range | 7 – 10 kg |
| Height range | Male: 41–44 cm; Female: 38–42 cm |
| Colours | Blue & tan, liver, liver & tan, sandy, sandy & tan, blue |
| Coat length | Medium |
Bedlington Terrier personality and temperament
Bedlington Terriers are known for their spirited, loving, and intelligent nature. Originally bred for hunting pests, they retain a strong sense of persistence and energy while also being affectionate and gentle companions. Their fun-loving personality makes them a great fit for families, often displaying a playful and cheerful attitude, almost like a clown. Bedlington Terriers are lively and enjoy staying active, but they are just as happy to relax and enjoy quiet moments with their owners, showing a balance of energy and calmness.
Bedlington Terriers are loyal and form strong bonds with their family. They love interacting with others and enjoy being part of family activities, whether it’s playing outdoors, going for walks, or snuggling indoors. Their gentle and loving nature makes them excellent with children, as they are calm and patient. While they have a streak of independence that allows them to entertain themselves, they still prefer to be close to their loved ones, making them a true companion breed.
In addition to their affectionate nature, Bedlington Terriers exhibit classic terrier traits of bravery and curiosity. They are diligent and alert, making them effective watchdogs. While they are not aggressive, they may be initially cautious of strangers, and their natural protectiveness means they will quickly alert their family to anything unusual. Early socialisation is important to help them adjust well to new people and environments.
Overall, Bedlington Terriers are versatile dogs that can adapt to various living situations, whether in urban apartments or rural homes, as long as they receive regular exercise and care. Their affectionate and energetic personality, combined with their protective instincts, makes them a wonderful companion for both families and individuals.
Bedlington Terriers with kids and other pets
Bedlington Terriers are loving and mild-mannered dogs, making them ideal companions for families with children. Their fun and energetic nature suits homes with lots of activity, and they are known for forming strong bonds with kids in the household. Despite their lively personality, Bedlington Terriers are also tolerant and empathetic, allowing them to engage positively with younger family members. However, like all breeds, supervision is important to ensure safe play, especially with young children who may not know how to handle smaller dogs properly.
Bedlington Terriers tend to be friendly with other pets, especially when socialised from a young age. While their natural terrier instincts might make them cautious around unfamiliar animals at first, consistent training helps them live harmoniously with other dogs and cats. Given their history as hunting dogs, they may have a strong urge to chase smaller animals, so gradual introductions and supervision are necessary to ensure peaceful interactions.
Bedlington Terrier training and exercise
Bedlington Terriers are lively and intelligent dogs that require regular physical activity and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-balanced. They enjoy a range of activities, from daily walks to interactive play sessions, which help keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Although Bedlington Terriers are generally not destructive, they can become bored without enough stimulation. Puzzle toys and problem-solving games are excellent for engaging their minds and preventing unwanted behaviours. These dogs thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and opportunities to expend their energy.
Training a Bedlington Terrier requires patience and consistency due to their occasional stubbornness, a trait linked to their independent nature. Early socialisation and training are essential for developing proper manners and confidence, especially around other animals and in unfamiliar environments.
They respond well to positive reinforcement, and setting clear boundaries helps them understand their role within the household. With the right guidance, Bedlington Terriers can excel in obedience training and even dog sports, showing that they are not only great companions but also eager learners.
| Energy level | High |
| Exercise requirements | Moderate |
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Bedlington Terrier feeding and nutrition
Maintaining the health and energy of a Bedlington Terrier requires proper nutrition. Providing a well-balanced diet that meets their energy needs is key to supporting their active lifestyle and keeping their coat shiny and healthy. High-quality dog food, specifically tailored for small to medium-sized breeds, should contain the right balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates for each stage of their life. Consulting with a veterinarian to develop a feeding plan ensures your Bedlington Terrier receives the proper nutrients based on their age, size, and activity level.
As Bedlington Terriers age, their dietary needs will change. Puppies require a protein-rich diet to support growth and development, while adult dogs benefit from a balanced diet to maintain their energy levels and muscle tone. For senior dogs, a lower-calorie diet may be necessary to prevent weight gain, along with supplements to promote joint health. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for tracking their nutritional needs and ensuring their health is on the right track.
Bedlington Terrier care and grooming
Regular grooming is essential for maintaining the Bedlington Terrier’s unique curly coat and keeping their skin and coat in good condition. While they are known for minimal shedding, Bedlington Terriers benefit from regular grooming, typically requiring brushing two to three times a week to prevent knots and tangles. Trimming the hair around the paws and ears can help keep them looking tidy, but avoid shaving their coat to preserve its natural protective qualities.
Consistent grooming helps manage both the soft and coarse textures of their coat, keeping it neat and healthy. Professional grooming every few months is recommended to maintain the breed’s distinctive lamb-like appearance and make the coat easier to manage.
Bathing should be done as needed but not too frequently to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important parts of the grooming routine to ensure the overall health of your Bedlington Terrier.
Health issues for Bedlington Terriers
- Hip Dysplasia affects the development of the hip joint in Bedlington Terriers, leading to joint instability and arthritis. Like in Maremma Sheepdogs, this condition is hereditary, with symptoms including limping, discomfort, and mobility issues. While genetics play a significant role, factors like rapid growth, excess weight, and inadequate exercise can worsen the condition. Regular check-ups and a balanced exercise routine are important for maintaining joint health.
- Epiphyseal Dysplasia causes pain, swelling, and mobility challenges in Bedlington Terriers due to abnormal bone development. Similar to Elbow Dysplasia in other breeds, this disorder is inherited and presents with symptoms such as limping and restricted motion. While genetic factors are significant, over-exercising and rapid growth in puppies can increase the risk.
- Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a common issue in Bedlington Terriers, resulting from kidney damage or impaired function. Like Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in Maremma Sheepdogs, CRF causes symptoms such as excessive thirst, urination, weight loss, and vomiting. Genetics contribute to the condition, but regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet are key to early detection and prevention.
- Patellar Luxation causes discomfort in Bedlington Terriers by affecting the movement of their kneecap. This condition, similar to Hypothyroidism in other breeds, can be influenced by genetics and exacerbated by environmental factors like obesity or strain on the joints. Monitoring knee movement and addressing any signs of patellar luxation early is crucial to preventing long-term damage.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a genetic condition in Bedlington Terriers that causes gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness. Like in Maremma Sheepdogs, PRA is inherited through autosomal recessive genes, with symptoms including night blindness and dilated pupils.
Routine veterinary check-ups, genetic testing, and a healthy diet are essential for managing these health concerns and ensuring the well-being of Bedlington Terriers. For more information on pet insurance coverage for these and other conditions, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement from Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance.
Not all conditions are covered by Pet Insurance. For details of Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance cover, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement.
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MORE INFORMATION
The National Bedlington Terrier Club: https://nationalbedlingtonterrierclub.co.uk/
Bedlington Terrier Club of America: https://www.bedlingtonamerica.com/
