Bedlington Terrier Breed

The Bedlington Terrier Breed is an affectionate and playful dog that makes for a great companion. Find more information like this in this profile of the Bedlington Terrier.

Bedlington Terrier Breed
General Description: Bedlington Terriers have a pear-shaped head, arched back, and curly coat that many people say resembles that of a sheep. Their sloped heads have no pronounced stop and their small eyes are deep set. They have pointy tails and straight front legs. The thick double coat of the Bedlington Terrier is a mixture of harsh and soft hairs. It comes in blue, liver, or sand colors. Tan markings over the chest, rear, and legs may or may not be present.

Character: As a result of selective breeding, the Bedlington Terrier is much more suited for companionship than it originally was. Affectionate, playful, and cheerful, the Bedlington Terrier is friendly with children and social with most strangers. They are a loyal breed with a lively temperament and headstrong, independent attitude. Although they usually get along with other dogs, the Bedlington Terrier may have a propensity to dominate. They should be properly socialized from an early age if they are living with other pets or animals. They are a barking breed and love to dig and chase things.

Size: 15 – 17 inches

Weight: 18 – 23 pounds

General Health: The Bedlington Terrier is susceptible to contracting a serious inherited liver problem that is referred to as Copper Storage Disease. The breed is also prone to hereditary kidney disease, thyroid problems, and PRA. Eye problems like cataracts and retinal disease are also a concern. Bedlington Terriers are an exceptionally long-lived breed and they typically live for more than 17 years. They average 3 to 6 puppies per litter.

History: Originally called the Rothbury Terrier after the district of Rothbury on the English border, gypsy nail makers held the breed in high esteem because of its ability to hunt various animals like rabbits, foxes, and badgers. In the 1820s, the Rothbury dog was mated with a Bedlington. This produced the contemporary Bedlington Terrier. Many sources believe the Otterhound and Dandie Dinmont Terrier are possible providers of the Bedlington Terrier. Some breeders cross the Bedlington Terrier with Whippets and/or Greyhounds to produce a dog that is called a Lurcher. Bedlington Terriers were deemed a separate breed in 1977.

Maintenance: The Bedlington Terrier sheds minimally but requires specialized clipping on a regular basis. Owners can learn to clip the coat of this breed themselves. Every six weeks, the Bedlington Terrier’s coat should be trimmed close to the head and body to accentuate the shape of the dog’s body. A tassel is usually left on the ears of this breed, and the hair on the legs is usually left longer. Bedlington Terriers should be brushed regularly and their ears should be kept clean. This breed shouldn’t be bathed too often. Bedlington Terriers are considered a good choice of pet for those that suffer from allergies.

Ideal Environment: Bedlington Terriers can live happily in a small household or apartment if they are given sufficient daily exercise. Without proper exercise, Bedlington Terriers will become bored and/or mischievous. This breed is comparatively active indoors.

Please visit GreatDogSite.com for more Bedlington Terrier information.


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