Bedlington Terrier
dog Breed Profile
The Bedlington terrier is unmistakable for its striking resemblance to a lamb.
In this article
Dolicocephalic (long face), floppy ears (naturally)
Size
Weight
17-23 lbs.
17-23 lbs.
Height
15 in.
(at withers)
16 in.
Coat
Length
Medium
Color
Blue with or without tan, sandy with or without tan, liver with or without tan
Care
Exercise
20-40 minutes/day
Energy level
Average
Longevity
12-14 yrs
Needs
Moderate
Traits
High
Low
Drooling
Low
Digging
High
Grooming Needs
High
Social Needs
Moderate
Club recognition
AKC Class.
Terrier
UKC Class.
Terrier
Prevalence
Rare
Considered a hypoallergenic breed, the Bedlington is considered an acceptable pet for the typical allergy sufferer.
The Bedlington terrier is unmistakable for its striking resemblance to a lamb.
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The Bedlington is blithe, playful and generally loyal to its owners, friendly to strangers and loving to children. Courageous, energetic and headstrong, the dog is a fierce fighter that rarely backs down from a challenge. Despite its friendly appearance, the Bedlington can be unwelcoming toward cats and other household pets, unless adapted to them at an early age. Bedlingtons like to bark, dig and chase.
Active dogs, Bedlington terriers are swift runners that need ample exercise. Without sufficient recreation opportunities, the Bedlington is prone to boredom and mischievous behavior. The are suitable indoor dogs, even for apartment dwellers, as long as adequate exercise is provided. The Bedlington sheds little to no hair and requires specialized clipping every six weeks. The novice owner can learn how to clip the coat at home. Considered a hypoallergenic breed, the Bedlington is considered an acceptable pet for the typical allergy sufferer.
The Bedlington terrier emerged in the parish of Bedlington in Northumberland, England in the early 19th century. Originally known as the Rothbury Terrier, after the namesake district on the English coast, the breed was prized by gypsy nail makers as a hunter of foxes, hares, badgers and rats. In about 1825, a Rothbury dog was mated to a Bedlington bitch to produce the Bedlington terrier. The otter hound and the Dandie Dinmont terrier are also thought to have contributed their genes to the breed.
As a vermin hunter, the plucky Bedlington terrier was a fearless combatant. The dog was also used by the hunters as retrievers. Over time, the terriers were welcomed into homes of the elite, who valued them as well-behaved, first-class companions.
The present-day Bedlington, which was inducted by the American Kennel Club in 1967, is larger in stature than its earlier counterparts.
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