Bedlington Terrier Traits: Myth or Reality? Separating Fact from Fiction!
Bedlington Terrier Temperament The Bedlington Terrier has an energetic, mischievous, and intelligent temperament. They are affectionate and loyal to their family.
II. History of the Bedlington Terrier The Bedlington Terrier originated in the mining town of Bedlington, Northumberland in Northeast England in the 18th century. They were bred to hunt vermin and race other dogs. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886.
Physical Characteristics of the Bedlington Terrier
| Physical Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Head | Narrow, but deep and rounded. Covered with a profuse silky topknot. |
| Eyes | Almond shaped and small. Dark or blue in color. |
| Ears | Folded and triangular shaped. |
| Body | Lithe, supple, and muscular. |
| Legs | Long and slender. |
| Feet | Hare-shaped. |
| Tail | Tapering with a slight curve. |
Grooming Requirements for the Bedlington Terrier
| Grooming Need | Description |
|---|---|
| Brushing | Requires weekly brushing and combing. |
| Bathing | Bathe every 1-2 months. |
| Nail Trimming | Trim nails monthly. |
| Ear Cleaning | Clean ears weekly. |
| Teeth Brushing | Brush teeth weekly. |
| Hair Clipping | Clip and shape coat every 6-8 weeks. |
Health Problems of the Bedlington Terrier
| Health Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| Copper Toxicosis | Excess copper accumulation in liver. Can be fatal if untreated. |
| Eye Problems | Prone to cataracts and retinal dysplasia. |
| Patellar Luxation | Dislocated kneecap. Causes lameness. |
Training a Bedlington Terrier
The intelligent Bedlington Terrier needs consistent, positive reinforcement training from a young age. Crate training assists with housebreaking. Socialization is critical to minimize shy or nervous behavior.
| Training Tips |
|---|
| Respond well to reward based training |
| Eager to please |
| Need early socialization |
| Crate training recommended |
Exercise Needs of the Bedlington Terrier
The energetic Bedlington Terrier needs 45-60 minutes of daily exercise. They enjoy brisk walks, hikes, playing fetch, and running alongside a bicycle.
| Exercise Needs |
|---|
| 45-60 minutes per day |
| Enjoys walking, running, hiking |
| Needs mental stimulation |
| Playful, active breed |
Diet for the Bedlington Terrier
A high-quality commercial diet formulated for active or working dogs is recommended. Divide 2-2.5 cups of food into two meals.
| Nutrition Tips |
|---|
| 2-2.5 cups high-quality commercial food daily |
| Divide into two meals |
| Active, working dog formula |
| Avoid overfeeding |
Where to Buy a Bedlington Terrier USA
Purchase a Bedlington Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder. Expect to pay $1,000-$1,500. Use the AKC Marketplace or breed club to find breeders.
| Getting a Bedlington |
|---|
| Cost: $1,000-$1,500 |
| AKC Marketplace |
| Breed clubs |
| Health tests on sire & dam |
Cost of Owning a Bedlington Terrier USA
The average annual cost of owning a Bedlington Terrier is $1,000-$1,500 including food, supplies, vet care, grooming, training, and licenses. Health testing of parents may increase initial cost.
| Ownership Costs |
|---|
| Annual average cost: $1,000-$1,500 |
| Food, supplies: $400-$600 |
| Vet care, insurance: $400-$600 |
| Grooming: $200-$400 |
| Training, licenses: $50-$200 |
Pros of Owning a Bedlington Terrier
- Energetic, playful, and athletic
- Affectionate and loyal
- Minimal shedding
- Does well in apartments if exercised
- Minimal barking
- Good watchdog abilities
Cons of Owning a Bedlington Terrier
- Requires frequent grooming
- Prone to several health issues
- Can be destructive if bored
- Prey drive makes cohabitation with small pets difficult
- Independent nature may challenge training
- High exercise needs
Bedlington Terrier Lifespan
The average lifespan of the Bedlington Terrier is 12-14 years. Providing proper nutrition, exercise, vet care, and avoiding obesity can help maximize lifespan.
Bedlington Terrier Personality
The Bedlington Terrier has an energetic, intelligent, mischievous, and loyal personality. They form strong bonds with their family. They can be reserved with strangers. Proper socialization is important.
Bedlington Terrier Size
The Bedlington Terrier is a small to medium sized terrier. Males stand 16-18 inches tall and females 15-17 inches tall. They weigh 17-23 pounds.
| Size |
|---|
| Height: Males 16-18 in, Females 15-17 in |
| Weight: 17-23 lb |
Bedlington Terrier Color
Common Bedlington Terrier colors are blue, blue and tan, liver, liver and tan, and sandy. The coat can also be red, sandy, or chestnut brown. Puppies are born dark and lighten as they mature.
| Coat Colors |
|---|
| Blue |
| Blue & tan |
| Liver |
| Liver & tan |
| Sandy |
Bedlington Terrier Breeders USA
- Bedlington Terrier Club of America
- American Kennel Club – Marketplace
- Bedlington Terrier Club of Canada
- National Bedlington Terrier Club
- Bedlington Terrier Rescue, Adoption, and Education
Bedlington Terrier Rescue & Therapy Dogs
Bedlington Terriers excel in pet therapy work due to their affectionate nature. Contact breed specific rescues to adopt. Perform health and temperament checks before adopting.
| Rescue & Therapy |
|---|
| Excellent therapy dogs |
| Several breed specific rescues |
| Screen for health & temperament |
Bedlington Terrier Clubs USA
- Bedlington Terrier Club of America
- Colonial Bedlington Terrier Club
- Santa Clara Valley Bedlington Terrier Club
- Lone Star Bedlington Terrier Club
- Midwest Bedlington Terrier Club
- Eastern Bedlington Terrier Club
- Pacific Northwest Bedlington Terrier Club
- Rocky Mountain Bedlington Terrier Club
- Mid-Atlantic Bedlington Terrier Club
The Bedlington Terrier is an energetic small terrier that bonds closely with their family. They require frequent grooming and exercise. Health issues like copper toxicosis should be screened for. When properly exercised and socialized, they make lively, affectionate companions. Reputable breeders can provide healthy pups that meet breed standards.
FAQS
Are Bedlington Terriers good family dogs?
Yes, Bedlington Terriers are very affectionate and loyal to their families. They form close bonds and do well with children if properly socialized.
Do Bedlington Terriers shed?
Bedlington Terriers are light shedders though their coat requires frequent brushing and trimming. They are a good choice for those with allergies.
How much exercise does a Bedlington Terrier need?
Bedlington Terriers are energetic dogs that need 45-60 minutes of exercise daily including walks, running, playtime, and opportunities to run off-leash in a safe area.
What health problems are common in Bedlington Terriers?
Bedlington Terriers can suffer from copper toxicosis, eye problems like cataracts, patellar luxation, and heart disorders. Reputable breeders screen for these issues.
What is the best way to train a Bedlington Terrier?
Positive reinforcement training works best for the intelligent but sometimes stubborn Bedlington. Early socialization and obedience training are highly recommended starting from puppyhood
