Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you considering getting a Bedlington Terrier as a pet? If so, you’re in for a treat! These adorable dogs are known for their unique appearance, sweet personalities, and fun-loving nature. Originally bred for hunting and racing, Bedlington Terriers have become popular pets due to their affectionate and loyal nature. They are also highly adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, making them a great choice for families, singles, and seniors alike. In this article, we’ll explore what makes the Bedlington Terrier such a great pet and what you should consider before bringing one home.

Breed Category: Terrier
Country of Origin: England
Average Size:41-46 cm
Average Weight:8-10 kg
Average Life Span: 12-16 years
Grooming Requirements: High
Exercise Requirements:Moderate

History and Origin

The Bedlington Terrier is a small breed of dog that originated in the town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England. The breed was originally developed for hunting vermin, such as rats and rabbits, and was also used for fighting in the pits. The Bedlington Terrier is known for its distinctive appearance, with a lamb-like coat and a long, narrow head.

The exact origins of the Bedlington Terrier are unclear, but it is believed to be a cross between several different breeds, including the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Otterhound, and the Whippet. The breed was first recognized by the Kennel Club in 1877, and has since become a popular companion dog.

In the early days of the breed, Bedlington Terriers were used for a variety of tasks, including hunting, fighting, and even racing. They were also used as watchdogs, and were known for their fierce loyalty and protective nature. Over time, the breed became more popular as a companion dog, and was bred for its friendly and affectionate temperament.

Despite its small size, the Bedlington Terrier is a tough and resilient breed, with a strong prey drive and a high energy level. They are known for their agility and speed, and are often used in dog sports such as agility and flyball. They are also highly trainable, and are often used as therapy dogs and service dogs.

Today, the Bedlington Terrier is a popular breed around the world, known for its unique appearance and friendly personality. They are often used as family pets, and are known for their love of children and other animals. While they may have a reputation for being stubborn and independent, with proper training and socialization, they can make wonderful companions for people of all ages.

In conclusion, the Bedlington Terrier is a fascinating breed with a rich history and a unique appearance. From its origins as a hunting and fighting dog to its current role as a beloved family pet, the Bedlington Terrier has come a long way over the years. Whether you are looking for a loyal companion or a talented athlete, the Bedlington Terrier is a breed that is sure to capture your heart.

Size and Breed Category

The Bedlington Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that typically weighs between 7 and 10 kilograms. They stand at a height of around 38 to 43 centimeters at the shoulder and have a distinctive pear-shaped head with a narrow muzzle and small, floppy ears. Their coat is thick and curly, with a woolly texture that is often described as feeling like lamb’s wool. The breed comes in a range of colors, including blue, liver, and sandy.

Bedlington Terriers are classified as a terrier breed, but they are not as high-energy or feisty as some of their counterparts. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, and they make excellent family pets. They are intelligent and easy to train, and they enjoy spending time with their owners. Despite their small size, they are also known for their bravery and will not hesitate to protect their family if they feel threatened. Overall, the Bedlington Terrier is a charming and lovable breed that is well-suited to life as a companion animal.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Bedlington Terrier is soft and woolly, with a distinctive texture that sets it apart from other breeds. The fur is typically around 5-6cm in length, and is curly in appearance. The fur is also hypoallergenic, making it a popular choice for those with allergies. The colour of the fur can vary, but is typically a light blue-grey or liver colour. Some Bedlington Terriers may also have white markings on their chest and feet. The fur requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, and should be trimmed every few months to maintain its shape and texture.

The Bedlington Terrier’s fur is often described as having a lamb-like appearance, due to its soft and curly texture. The fur is also quite thick, providing insulation and protection from the elements. The colour of the fur can also vary depending on the individual dog, with some Bedlington Terriers having a darker or lighter shade of blue-grey or liver. The fur on the head and ears is typically shorter and smoother than the rest of the body, giving the dog a distinctive look. Overall, the fur of the Bedlington Terrier is one of its most defining features, and requires regular care and attention to keep it looking its best.

Termperament and Trainability

Bedlington Terriers are known for their lively and affectionate temperament. They are highly sociable dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals. They are also known for their playful nature and love to engage in activities that involve running and jumping. Bedlington Terriers are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn new things. They are also known for their independent streak, which can make them a bit stubborn at times. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be well-behaved and obedient pets.

When it comes to trainability, Bedlington Terriers are generally easy to train. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners, which makes them receptive to training. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, treats, and playtime. However, they can be sensitive dogs that do not respond well to harsh or punitive training methods. It is important to establish a consistent and structured training routine with Bedlington Terriers to ensure that they learn the desired behaviors. With patience and persistence, Bedlington Terriers can be trained to perform a variety of tasks and tricks.

Known Health Conditions

Bedlington Terriers are prone to a number of health conditions, including copper toxicosis, which is a genetic disorder that affects the liver. This condition can lead to liver failure and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Symptoms of copper toxicosis include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Bedlington Terriers should be screened for this condition regularly, and treatment may involve a special diet and medication to manage the copper levels in the liver.

Another health condition that Bedlington Terriers are prone to is renal dysplasia, which is a congenital disorder that affects the kidneys. This condition can lead to kidney failure and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Symptoms of renal dysplasia include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy. Bedlington Terriers should be screened for this condition regularly, and treatment may involve a special diet and medication to manage the symptoms.

Openness to Strangers

Bedlington Terriers have a reputation for being friendly and sociable with strangers. They are known to be curious and inquisitive, often approaching new people with a wagging tail and a friendly demeanor. This openness to strangers is a trait that makes them popular as family pets and companions. Bedlington Terriers are also known for their intelligence and adaptability, which makes them easy to train and socialize. They are often used as therapy dogs and are known to be excellent with children and other pets.

Despite their friendly nature, Bedlington Terriers can be protective of their owners and their territory. They are known to be alert and watchful, and will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger. However, they are not aggressive and will usually only bark to warn off intruders. Bedlington Terriers are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, and will often follow them around the house or curl up on their laps for a cuddle. Overall, Bedlington Terriers are a charming and sociable breed that make excellent family pets.

Playfulness Level

The Bedlington Terrier is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their lively and mischievous nature, making them a popular choice for families with children. These dogs love to play and are always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war. They have a great sense of humor and are known to make their owners laugh with their silly antics. The Bedlington Terrier’s playful nature makes them a great companion for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and are looking for a dog that can keep up with them.

Despite their small size, the Bedlington Terrier is a highly athletic breed that loves to run and play. They are known for their agility and speed, making them a popular choice for dog sports such as agility and flyball. These dogs have a natural instinct to chase and catch, which makes them great at playing fetch and other games that involve running and jumping. The Bedlington Terrier’s playful nature is one of their most endearing qualities, and they are sure to bring joy and laughter to any household that welcomes them.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

The Bedlington Terrier is a lively and affectionate dog that can make a great pet for children. With their energetic and playful nature, they are always up for a game or a run around the garden. They are also known for their loyalty and love for their owners, making them a great companion for children who want a furry friend to cuddle up with. Additionally, Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and easy to train, which can make them a good choice for families with children who want to get involved in training their pet.

Exercise Needs

Bedlington Terriers require a moderate amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As an active breed, they enjoy daily walks and playtime in a secure, fenced area. A minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day is recommended, but they will happily engage in more vigorous activities such as running, hiking, and swimming. It is important to note that Bedlington Terriers have a high prey drive and should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from chasing after small animals. Additionally, they thrive on mental stimulation and benefit from interactive toys and training sessions.

Regular exercise is essential for the overall well-being of Bedlington Terriers. Without adequate physical activity, they may become bored and develop destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging. However, it is important to avoid over-exercising them, as they are prone to joint problems such as patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Owners should monitor their dog’s activity level and adjust accordingly. In addition to daily exercise, Bedlington Terriers should have access to a comfortable and safe living space, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they remain healthy and happy.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Bedlington Terriers have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets in the household. They are known to get along well with cats and other dogs, as long as they are socialized properly from a young age. It is important to supervise interactions between pets to ensure that they are getting along well. Bedlington Terriers may have a strong prey drive, so it is important to introduce them to smaller pets, such as rabbits or guinea pigs, with caution. Overall, Bedlington Terriers can make great companions for other pets in the household.

Housing Requirements

Bedlington Terriers require a living space that is comfortable and spacious enough for them to move around freely. They are active dogs that require regular exercise, so it is important that their living space allows for this. A garden or outdoor space is ideal for Bedlington Terriers to run around and play in. However, if living in an apartment or smaller living space, regular walks and playtime outside is necessary to keep them healthy and happy. Bedlington Terriers also require a comfortable and warm sleeping area, as they are sensitive to cold temperatures. A soft bed or blanket in a warm area of the house is ideal for them to rest and relax in.

Bedlington Terriers also require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and wellbeing. Their diet should consist of high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. It is important to monitor their food intake and ensure they are not overeating, as they can be prone to weight gain. Fresh water should also be available to them at all times. Regular visits to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations are also necessary to keep them healthy and prevent any potential health issues.

Summary

Bedlington Terriers make great pets for active families who are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. They are known for their playful and energetic personalities, and their love for outdoor activities such as running and playing fetch. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them a great choice for families who are willing to invest time and effort into their pet’s training and socialization. Additionally, Bedlington Terriers are known for their low-shedding coats, which makes them a great choice for families with allergies. Overall, Bedlington Terriers are a great choice for families who are looking for an active and intelligent pet that will provide them with years of love and companionship.

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