| Breed
Group:
Terrier |
| Weight:
17-23 lbs |
| Height:
male 16.5, female: 15.5 inches |
| Color(s):
blue,
sandy, and liver, each with or without tan points. Bedlington pups are
born dark, and lighten to adult color by about one year of age. |
| Coat:
The
Bedlington Terrier is a very distinctive breed. The coat is an
interesting and unusual mixture of both soft and hard hair. The body
coat is curly, crisp, and lint-like in texture. There is a fringe of
silky hair on the tips of the ears. This thick double coat breed comes
in blue, sandy, or liver. They are non-shedding. |
| Overview:
Originating
in England during the 18th century, this breed was used by gypsies as a
vermin hunter and small game retriever. They are often affectionately
referred to as the "gypsy dog". The Bedlington Terrier is often
described as a dog with the heart of a lion and the head of a lamb due
to their unique appearance and assertive demeanor. |
| Character:
This
well-balanced breed is mild and gentle, never shy or nervous. They have
immense energy, courage, and endurance. The Bedlington Terrier is full
of confidence, is spirited, and quite muscular. They have strong
sporting instincts and also make an intelligent and amiable companion. |
| Temperament:
Bedlington
Terriers have an affectionate personality. They are cheerful, playful,
lively, and loyal. This breed is deeply devoted to their family, and
loving with considerate and well-behaved children. They will get along
with cats and other animals they have been raised with, but will not
tolerate dominating or threatening behavior. Despite their gentle
appearance it is important to remember that the Bedlington Terrier is a
terrier breed. If they are challenged they are ferocious and terrifying
fighters. They are fairly friendly with strangers. They make excellent
watchdogs as they are extremely protective of their family and will
alert them to danger and visitors. |
| Care:
This
is a high maintenance breed. They require professional specialized
clipping every six weeks. They must be brushed and combed on a daily
basis. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. The
Bedlington Terrier is prone to a serious inherited liver problem known
as Copper Storage Disease. They also have a tendency for such health
issues as thyroid problems, cataracts, and kidney disease. |
| Training:
The
Bedlington Terrier can be independent, skittish, and quite difficult to
train. They benefit from early socialization, particularly with cats
and other pets. Intensive obedience training is crucial as this breed
has a tendency to be destructive and bark excessively. They will not
respond to harsh or heavy-handed training. The Bedlington Terrier
thrives on human companionship and is trained best with firm, loving
and consistent guidance. They excel in agility, obedience, and flyball. |
| Activity:
Bedlington
Terriers are an exceedingly active breed that requires a great deal of
exercise and stimulation. They are fairly active indoors and benefit
from family play sessions. They are excellent walking companions
provided they are securely leashed. They enjoy outdoor play provided
the yard is securely fenced and they are supervised. This breed is
highly prone to digging. The Bedlington Terrier will do okay in an
apartment if they are given sufficient exercise. |
