Quick Stats for Bedlington Terriers
- Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 16 – 17 inches (41 – 43 cm) ; bitches: 15 – 16 inches (38 – 41 cm)
- Weight: 18 – 23 pounds (8 – 10 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
- AKC Group: Terrier Group – AKC recognized in 1886
- Shedding: sheds little to no hair
- Living Conditions: okay in apartment; fairly active indoors; okay without a yard
Personality of Bedlington Terriers
These dogs are easygoing and friendly members of the Terrier Group. Some would argue that they are the friendliest dogs among terriers. For terriers, they are unusually friendly, even towards strangers. However, that does not mean that they are not great watchdogs.
Because of their mild and gentle temperament, they make great family companions and are perfect around children. They are always looking to play, and make quiet house pets.
They can get along with other other dogs and cats as long as they are properly socialized from they are young.
History of Bedlington Terriers
The exact origin of the Bedlington Terrier is a bit sketchy. We do know that they have been around England since the 1800s.
The breed is believed to have originated in the English town of Bedlington around 1825 and is the offspring of Rothbury Terrier crosses. It is believed that sometime later, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Whippet were used to refine the breed. However, this seems to be a largely unsubstantiated claim. No matter what breeds were use to create this unusual Terrier breed, the results are unforgettable.
The Bedlington Terrier is skilled at hunting rats, fox, badgers, and even otters.
These dogs entered the show ring around the late 1800s. Today, they are still very popular in and out of the show ring.
The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1886.
Bedlington Terriers Care and Grooming
These dogs require plenty of daily exercise. Running and games that involve a lot of physical activity are great for providing them with the necessary exercise.
Their grooming requirements includes a good brushing at least twice weekly, using the proper dog grooming brush. Their coats should be trimmed monthly to keep it looking nice and neat.
The Bedlington’s thick double coat is a mixture of soft and hard hair which sheds little. This can make them a good choice for people suffering from allergies.
Health Problems of Bedlington Terriers
The average life expectancy of the Bedlington Terrier is about twelve to fourteen years.
Major health concerns for this breed are:
- copper toxicosis
Minor health issues include:
- distichiasis
- renal cortical hypoplasia
- retinal dysplasia
These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:
- patellar luxation
Veterinarians recommend having Bedlington Terriers tested specifically for eye problems. They also recommend a liver biopsy, and DNA for copper toxicosis.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
Best,
Omar Reyes
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
Very informative post, nice!
Thank you Candy
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Omar