Bedlington Terrier

Calmer and less boisterous than many other terriers, the Bedlington Terrier is known as a dog with a good nature and mild manners. This is an agile and energetic dog, which carries itself with grace and style. These dogs love to play and run around, which means that you need to ensure that there is a safe and secure area for your Bedlington Terrier to get some exercise and outdoor activity. These dogs also love to explore and have a curious streak. The Bedlington Terrier is an intelligent dog, and is affectionate and alerts, which makes him a good watchdog.

The Bedlington Terrier will get on well with older, considerate children and with children that he has been raised with from an early age. Depending on the individual dog's personality, the attitude of the Bedlington Terrier around strangers can vary from curious to timid or reserved. These dogs tend to get on quite well with other pets, although they may give chase to smaller animals that make a run for it. These dogs can have quite a stubborn streak that can sometimes make training difficult, and they area also barkers and diggers. This breed is best suited to more experienced dog owners.

Bedlington Terrier Appearance

The Bedlington Terrier weighs in at around 17-23 pounds, and the height of these dogs ranges from around 15-18 inches. The thick coat has a combination of soft and coarse hair, and this is curly and crisp in texture. The coloring of the coat can be sandy, liver, or blue, and this can be with tan trimming. Although the coat can be clipped and trimmed on a regular basis, some owners like to keep the coat shaggier. This dog has a very strong lamblike appearance.

Bedlington Terrier Grooming

The curly coat of the Bedlington Terrier will need to be brushed and combed on a weekly basis, and every couple of months should be trimmed to stop it from getting too shaggy or out of control. You should make sure that you also check and clean the dog's ears on a regular basis to reduce the chances of ear infections. The Bedlington Terrier is not a shedder and this makes the breed well suited for allergy sufferers.

Bedlington Terrier Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The Bedlington Terrier has a lifespan of around 12-16 years. Amongst the health problems and disorders linked to this breed are allergies, luxating patella, cataracts, detached retinas, and copper toxicosis. Parents should have OFA and CERF certificates, and testing to show that they are negative for CT.

Bedlington Terrier History

The Bedlington Terrier originated in Bedlington in England, from where he gets his name. Originally bred as a hunting and fighting dog, this breed has been known by a number of other names. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1886.