Bedlington Terrier breed Information
Bedlington Terrier: The Ultimate Breed Guide 2020
Do you want to buy or adopt a Bedlington Terrier dog? Do you want to know everything about this breed? If yes, then you just landed in the right place. To facilitate you, we have come up with a comprehensive guide that explains the characteristics, history, average size, personality, and general health of Bedlington Terrier dog.
Let’s begin our ride:
Characteristics Of Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed
Bedlington Terrier dogs are fun-loving, sociable, and affectionate with their owners. They stand out by their distinctive lamb-like coat. This irresistible cuddly companion has the heart of a lion. They are tenacious when chasing down prey and are an excellent watchdog.
All Bedlington Terrier dogs are different just as all humans are different. We have listed below Bedlington Terrier dog breed characteristics and is meant to be a general guideline for Bedlington Terrier’s characteristics. Let’s have a look at them:
1. Adaptability
Bedlington Terriers are easy-going and adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner. They have an average of 4 out of 5 stars adaptability level.
This good adaptability rating is brought about by the fact that:
- Bedlington Terriers are suitable for apartment living because of its small size. They remain calm and easy-going when indoors. As they are well suited to apartment living, they score 4 out of 5 stars.
- When it comes to first-time parents, a Bedlington Terrier scores 4 out of 5 stars. This shows they are suitable for novice owners.
- It has an average emotional level and is okay to changed routines. This breed has a moderate sensitivity level of 3 out of 5 stars.
- Bedlington Terriers share a bond with their owners but have a moderate tolerance for being alone. They score 3 out of 5 stars for being suited to be alone.
- Bedlington Terrier prefers average to cold weather conditions. This breed has a 4 out of 5 stars tolerance to cold weather and adapt well to cold weather conditions.
- Bedlington Terriers moderately tolerate hot weather and are not that vulnerable to overheating. This breed has a 3 out of 5 stars tolerance to hot weather and is a moderate lover of warm weather.
2. All-Around Friendliness
Bedlington Terrier is a playful and friendly dog breed. It has the ability to form solid-bonds and prove to be excellent companions. They have 5 out of 5 stars all around friendliness, and so you can count on its love and loyalty.
The reasons for their excellent all-around friendliness are:
- Bedlington Terriers shower the whole family with affection and hence hold 5 stars out of 5.
- Bedlington Terriers are gentle with children and possess 4 out of 5 stars for being kid-friendly. This breed is a good choice if you have children at home.
- Bedlington Terriers are dog-friendly dogs holding 4 out of 5 stars rating. If you like to join dog meetups, the Bedlington Terrier can be a great choice.
- Bedlington Terriers are stranger-friendly dogs and possess 5 out of 5 stars for being less aggressive to strangers. You don't need to be worried about it troubling your guests.
3. Health And Grooming Needs
Bedlington Terrier is a healthy breed but sometimes, it comes across certain health issues. It has a lot of grooming requirements to stay in good condition and require grooming on a daily basis. They are rated at 3 stars out 5 for being healthy dogs and ones with moderately high grooming needs.
Below are the reasons for this:
- If you are a neatnik and cannot tolerate dog hair on your couch, then this breed is for you. Bedlington Terrier sheds a negligible amount and holds 5 out of 5 stars for the amount of shedding.
- Bedlington Terriers are not droop-prone dogs and holds a rating of 1 out of 5 stars. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, then this breed is great for you.
- Bedlington Terriers are tough to groom holding 5 out of 5 stars. They require regular grooming to stay healthy and clean.
- Bedlington Terrier is a healthy breed and possesses 4 out of 5 stars when it comes to its health.
- It has a moderate potential to gain weight with 3 out of 5 stars.
- Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized dog and holds 3 out of 5 stars.
4. Trainability
Bedlington Terriers are quite easy to train. They find out the association between commands and follow instructions without putting in much effort. They have good training experience of 4 out of 5 stars.
Let's have a look at the factors for good trainability score:
- For ease of training, Bedlington Terriers hold 3 out of 5 stars. They do learn quickly but sometimes it is necessary for the trainer to be a bit stern.
- Bedlington Terriers are smart dogs and have high intelligence and concentration level. They score 5 out of 5 stars in intelligence level.
- Bedlington Terriers have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, or play-bite people. They have a 4 out of 5 stars potential for mouthiness.
- Bedlington Terriers have a high impulse to chase and catch something and have a 5-star inborn desire to hunt prey. You need to teach them how to associate well with pets in your house.
- Bedlington Terriers are moderate when it comes to barking and have 3 out of 5 stars barking potential.
- They have a strong desire for escaping the house and exploring the world. They have 4 out of 5 stars for wanderlust potential.
5. Physical Needs
The Bedlington Terrier is a high energy dog and has high physical needs of 4 out of 5 stars.
Below are the reasons:
- Bedlington Terriers have a high energy level rated at 4 out of 5 stars. They become bored and mischievous without physical activities.
- They are not vigorous dogs and possess 2 out of 5 stars intensity levels.
- Bedlington Terriers require some time for exercise and rated at 4 out of 5 stars exercise needs.
- Bedlington Terriers are highly playful and have a playfulness potential of 5 out of 5 stars.
After having a look at the breed characteristics, Bedlington Terriers sounds like a great choice to buy or adopt.
Vital Stats About Bedlington Terrier Dogs
Other Fun Facts About Bedlington Terriers
Let’s have a look at some fun facts about Bedlington Terriers:
- If you think small or medium-sized dog breeds don’t need exercise, then you might think again. Bedlington Terriers are high energy dogs and you have to help them burn that energy by playing with them or taking them on walks every day.
- It has a striking resemblance to a lamb. They are very unique looking dogs with their lamb-like coat as a distinguishing feature.
- Known for the beautiful coat, Bedlington Terriers don’t shed often. They can be an ideal indoor companion.
- They are terriers, so they love to dig. You can give them a digging area so they don’t try to escape the house or cause much trouble. Remember, regular exercise can reduce digging habits as exhausted dogs don’t dig.
- Bedlington Terriers gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their owners. They have great affection for family and are still ready to defend and protect them. They enjoy quality time with the whole family.
- Bedlington Terriers are great swimmers and are not bothered for being in the water. Make sure to dry them properly afterward.
- They have a tendency to bark continuously, like the firing of a gun. Sometimes, this becomes tough for neighbors.
- Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and moderately easy to train. They don't respond to harsh training methods.
- Bedlington Terriers are considered hypoallergenic breeds and are perfect for allergy sufferers. This gives another reason for making them an ideal indoor dog.
- They are not only bright with their own parents, but they also greet your guests happy and respond better to strangers.
History/Origin Of Bedlington Terrier Dogs
This Bedlington Terrier is a small dog breed named after the mining town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England in the early 19th century. They were originally known as the Rothbury Terrier but eventually were named Bedlington. The breed also acquired the nickname “Gypsy Dog” because it was used by the wandering Romanies as a poaching partner. Joseph Ainsley of Bedlington owned the first Bedlington Terrier dog.
Bedlington is considered as an extraordinary class of purebred terrier and is considered “smartest and quickest of our terriers.” this breed was a fearless fighter and was used as a vermin hunter. They proved to be perfect for catching rabbits, rats, badger, fox, polecat, and since they were good swimmers, they could easily work an otter. Bedlington Terriers always showed superior stamina, vigor, courage, loyalty, and determination as compared to other terriers.
Over time, the Bedlington Terriers were welcomed into homes of the elite, who valued them as well-behaved dogs. They have evolved as a loving, playful, adaptable, and obedient companion. The most unique and distinguishing feature of Bedlingtons is its appearance. It resembles a lamb because of its soft hair, size, and overall looks.
The Bedlington Terrier gained much popularity as a show dog in the late 19th century. Refinement and consistency in the breed began with the formation of England’s “National Bedlington Terrier Club” in 1877. Nine years later, the American Kennel Club (AKC) registered its first Bedlington Terrier in 1886. Today the Bedlington ranks 128th among the 155 breeds and varieties recognized by the AKC.
In Australia, this breed appears to have died out until 1964. After that, three Bedlingtons were imported into Victoria by Mrs. Olive Smalley. Shelagh O’Brien followed with another pair from a different bloodline. This laid the foundation for a small band of enthusiasts for Bedlington Terriers to follow in Australia.
Bedlington Terriers cannot be registered with the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) until the parents have been DNA tested for a hereditary disease called copper toxicosis. The Bedlington is one of 27 breeds of terriers in Australia but is still quite uncommon. Only 70 Bedligntons are currently registered with the Australian National Kennel Council.
What Is The Average Size Of A Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terrier is a graceful, lithe, energetic, and well-balanced small-sized dog. They have a distinctive lamb looking coat, arched back, tasseled ears, and a slender head. Let’s have a look at the average height and weight of Bedlington terrier dogs.
Average Height of Bedlington Terriers:
- Males: 41 – 43 cm
- Females: 38 – 41 cm
Average weight of Bedlington Terriers:
- Males: 8 - 10 kg
- Females: 8 - 10 kg
If you are planning to buy or adopt a Bedlington Terrier, the good news is that it can easily adjust to both big and small houses and apartments.
Personality Of Bedlington Terriers
Bedlington Terrier dog breed is playful, gentle, and affectionate. They make a great family companion and bond quickly with strangers. If properly trained at a young age, it goes well with other dogs and pets as well.
This brave and high energy dog is often known as a little powerhouse. Bedlington Terriers are excellent diggers and may escape the house when chasing down something. They need the attention of their owners. If neglected, they tend to bark, dig, or chase. Behavioral issues may stem if they do not get exercise and mental stimulation
Major Health Concerns Of Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed
Bedlington Terrier is an overall healthy dog breed and has an average rating of 4 stars out 5 for being a healthy dog. Despite these stats, Bedlington Terriers may develop some health issues.
If you own or are planning to buy a Bedlington Terrier, you need to be aware of its health concerns. The common health issues seen in this breed are Copper Toxicosis, Patellar Luxation, Distichiasis, Renal Cortical Hypoplasia, and Retinal Dysplasia. Let’s have a look into these health problems:
1. Copper Toxicosis
This is a genetic disease and is caused by the failure of the liver to expel dietary copper, leading to a buildup in the body resulting in illness and death. This hereditary disease is specific to Bedlington Terriers. The symptoms of this disease start showing at about 2-4 years of age.
Copper Toxicosis is an autosomal recessive trait and affected dogs must inherit a gene from both parents to be symptomatic. If they inherit a gene from only one parent, they will be just a carrier. About 25% of Bedlington Terriers are affected, while another 50% are carriers. Fortunately, a simple DNA test is available for copper toxicosis, so you can find out at any time whether your Bedlington Terrier has the disease, carries the disease, or is completely clear of it.
2. Patellar Luxation
This disease usually occurs in small breeds and refers to a condition where the kneecap can move in and out of position. This is a dislocation of the kneecap and is sometimes called “slipped stifles”. Patellar Luxation can be mild with little or no symptoms or severe with intense pain.
For diagnosis, vets can palpate the knee joint and manually manipulate it in and out of place. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgery. If surgery is required then X-rays and CAT scans are also helpful.
3. Distichiasis
This condition occurs when an additional row of eyelashes or distichia grows on the oil gland in the Bedlington terrier's eye. This distichia protrudes along the edge of the eyelid. This causes irritation and your dog may start rubbing his eyes. Distichiasis is treated surgically by freezing the excess eyelashes with liquid nitrogen and then removing them. This surgery is done under general anesthesia.
4. Renal Cortical Hypoplasia
This is a kidney disease where the cortex of one or both of the kidneys develops abnormally. This condition of your Bedlington terrier leads to kidney failure. Symptoms of kidney failure are increased thirst that results in an increase in urination. There is no specific cure for this condition. You just need to manage it and try to prevent additional damage to the kidneys.
5. Retinal Dysplasia
This is an eye disease in which the Bedlington terrier is born with a developmental malformation of the retina. Most cases are mild and there is no detectable loss in vision. At the age of 3-4 months, this can be determined in Bedlington terrier puppies. This condition does not affect the Bedlington terrier dog's ability to function as a companion. Dogs that are affected by this disease should not be bred.
How To Take Care Of Bedlington Terrier Dogs
Bedlington Terriers are small dogs and they are perfectly suitable for apartment living. Although they are highly adaptable, they need some regular physical activities. They are capable of running in high speed and enjoy digging. You need to give them a safe place to play.
Bedlington terriers need exercise to stay fit and healthy. You can meet their exercise requirements by:
- Taking them for a walk
- Play fetch
- Giving them a safe area to dig
- Taking them for hiking
- Taking them for jogging
This is an intelligent breed and relatively easy to train. They can fairly understand your commands and learn by positive reinforcement techniques. You can praise them or give treats as a reward. Negative reinforcement and harsh words will make them stubborn.
Ideal Diet For Bedlington Terrier Dogs
Your Bedlington Terrier’s diet should be healthy and include all nutrients. If your dog is on commercial dog food, it must be safe, affordable, and made with high-quality ingredients. The ideal diet for your Bedlington Terrier will also depend on their age, weight, health, physical activity level, and budget.
Feeding guide for Bedlington Terriers is given below:
The amount of food that Bedlington Terrier should eat varies with age and gender. As it is an active breed, so you should make sure you are giving your Bedlington Terrier enough to eat. Be sure to feed your dog about 1 to 1.5 cups (depending on the brand of dog food) of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. Most commercial dog food products also provide detailed feeding guides on the food's packaging.
Best Dog Food For Bedlington Terrier
Consider feeding your Bedlington Terrier adult dogs and puppies with the following dog food.
Best Bedlington Terrier Adult Dog Foods
All major dog food brands formulate products to meet the nutritional standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Never feed your Bedlington Terrier any dog food that does not meet these minimum standards. The three best Bedlington Terrier adult dog food are:
- Original Dry Dog Food
- Stella & Chewy's Chewy's Chicken Dinner Patties Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food
- American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best Dog Food For Bedlington Terrier Puppies
Bedlington terrier puppies should be given enough proteins to meet their growing needs. The primary difference between puppy food and adult food is the amount of protein in the food. Never feed Bedlington terrier puppies an adult dog food on a regular basis as it can cause permanent damage. Always ensure that the AAFCO statement on the dog food packaging clearly states that the food is formulated for growth or all life stages. The three best Bedlington Terrier puppy dog food are:
- Puppy Dry Dog Food
- Primal Chicken Formula Nuggets Grain-Free Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food
- American Journey Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Puppy Dry Dog Food
Coat Color And Grooming Needs For Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers have five recognized coat colors as follows:
- Liver
- Blue & Tan
- Sandy
- Liver & tan
- Sandy & Tan
Bedlington Terrier requires regular grooming to keep them tidy and healthy. In addition, the dog should be thoroughly combed every two to three days. If you don’t comb them regularly, their coat will quickly become matted. The coat is described as thick and needs regular trimming. If you prefer to groom your Bedlington at home, you must get the tools and accessories for grooming.
These dogs don’t have high shedding potential and are perfect indoor companions.
It is also a good breed for those allergic to dog hair, such as asthmatics. Bedlington’s hair is crisp and has a distinct tendency to curl, particularly on the head and face.
Tools used to groom Bedlington Terrier
When it comes to finding tools that can be used for grooming your Bedlington Terriers, here is a list that can help:
- Robust comb
- Slicker brush
- Grooming scissors for tidying up the coat
- Dog Nail clippers
- Dog toothbrush
- Set of dog clippers
How Do Bedlington Terriers Relate With Children And Other Pets
This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and incredibly affectionate and gentle around them. Their high energy levels and playful nature make them great playmates.
Bedlington Terrier is friendly with other dogs and pets. If you have other pets in your house or if you like to join dog meetups, the Bedlington Terrier can be a great choice.
Australian Based Breed Organizations For Bedlington Terrier
If you are in Australia and would want to adopt a Bedlington Terrier dog breed, get in touch with any of the following breed organizations.
- Piperdene Bedlingdon Terrier Kennels, Australia
- Wurroit Bedlington Terrier Kennel, Australia
- Fioralainn Kennel, Australia
- Ausbed Bedlington Terriers, Australia
Rescue Groups For Bedlington Terrier In Australia
Below are some of the rescue groups around Australia that you can contact.
- Be The Change Animal Shelter Pet Rescue, Animal Shelters in Adelaide, SA
- Hollys Rescue - Dog Rehoming & Adoption- Maitland, SA: Hollys Rescue
- Leema Rescue - DOG RESCUE IN HAMLEY BRIDGE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
- SA Dog Rescue DOG RESCUE & ADOPTION - SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Conclusion
Do you want a loving, affectionate, and loyal companion? Go ahead and buy or adopt a Bedlington Terrier dog. They are high energy dogs and would love to play and spend time with you. These brave and active little dogs still have very strong hunting instincts so they need plenty of opportunities to run and play.
They can make great family pets in the right household and if you have the time for a beautiful Bedlington Terrier they will definitely be your best pal!
Bedlington Terrier Photo Gallery
