Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is regarded as being one of the more friendly members of the Terrier Group. They are more easy-going and laid back than most terriers, both in their character and personality. These dogs are unusually friendly towards strangers considering they are a terrier breed, but are still excellent watchdogs.

The temperament of the Bedlington Terrier is on the soft side, which makes them more demonstrative and companionable towards their owners. Perfect around children and always looking to play, they make a quiet house dog and are a perfect fit for any family looking for a humble terrier, yet one that will stand up for itself against an aggressive dog or intruder.

A Brief History Of The Bedlington Terrier

The exact details of the Bedlington Terrier origins are obscure, but it is known that they have been around since the 1800s and descend from a line of breeds in England. It is one of the most unusual looking members of the Terrier Group that was started by a man named Joseph Ainsley.

It was the year 1825 and Joseph, living in the town of Bedlington, had bred a couple of his own Rothbury Terriers, naming the offspring the Bedlington Terrier. It is said that the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Whippet was added to the mix soon after, but this claim is still unsubstantiated.

Whatever the true mix of breeds were used in creating the Bedlington, the results are an unforgettable appearing Terrier that is an effective hunter of rats, fox, badger, and otter. The breed made its way to the show ring around the late 1800s and is still enjoyed in households today.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan for the Bedlington Terrier is between twelve and fourteen years. The only major health concern that runs common in the breed is copper toxicosis. Minor health problems include distichiasis, renal cortical hypoplasia, and retinal dysplasia. Rarely seen is patellar luxation. Veterinarians suggest that the Bedlington Terrier get specifically tested for eye problems, liver biopsy, and DNA for copper toxicosis.

Upkeep Requirements For The Bedlington Terrier

These dogs need plenty of daily exercise in the form of running or vigorous playtime games in the yard. They love to chase small animals and enjoy a brisk walk anytime of the day. Although they enjoy the outdoors, the Bedlington Terrier is not meant to live outside. They should be inside at night (and during the day if the temperature is extreme) with comfortable bedding. Grooming requirements for this breed call for a thorough brushing twice weekly, with monthly scissoring to keep the dog’s coat neat and shapely.