Bedlington Terrier

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: England

Group: Terrier

Height: males 16-17 in., females 15-16 in.

Weight: 17-23 lbs.

Life span: 17 yrs. plus

Trainability: moderate

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: not with dominant dogs, may chase cats & small animals

What is the origin of the Bedlington Terrier?

The Bedlington Terrier comes from Northumberland in England. It was developed from Rothbury Terriers and other crosses. They look like lambs when clipped. Bedlingtons were used to catch vermin.

What does the Bedlington Terrier look like?

The Bedlington is 15-17 inches tall and weighs 17-23 lbs. The head is narrow and rounded with no stop. It has a profuse topkot. Ears are set low, hanging with rounded tips that have a tassel. Eyes are almond-shaped. The back is arched. The coat is a mix of hard and soft hair that has a tendency to curl and is medium long. Colors are blue, sandy and liver with or without tan points. COMB the coat once or twice a week. The coat needs shaping every other month as it sheds very little.

What is the temperament of the Bedlington Terrier?

In spite of their lamb-like appearance, Bedlintons can be fierce and agressive fighters with other dogs. They are demonstrative with their family, but reserved with strangers. Bedlingtons can be wilfull and should have early positive obedience training and socialization. Unles raised with other pets, it moight view them as prey. Bedlingtons love to run and are very fast. They will chase any moving object. They are playful and are good with children. Bedlingtons need a vigorous long daily walk and can be off-leash only on a secure area. As Bedlingtons can be aggressive with other dogs, it’s a good idea to keep a close watch of they are off-leash. With adequate exercise they can live in apartments,.

What is the Bedlington Terrier used for?

Bedlingtons are still used today to catch vermin. They make good watchdogs and are loyal and affectionate family members.

Possible Health Issues

Copper toxicosis (buildup of copper in the liver), renal cortical hypoplasia (part of the kidney under-developed), retinal dysplasia.