Group: Terrier
Weight: 17 – 23 pounds
Height: 15 – 17 inches
Life Expectancy: Bedlingtons often live up to 17 years
Size of Litters: Average 3 – 6 puppies
History The Bedlington Terrier gets its name from a mining village in Northumberland in the United Kingdom. The miners in the area used this dog to hunt vermin. Rather shockingly, considering the Bedlington’s gentle appearance, it was also used for dog fights in the 19th century. Today, the Bedlington Terrier is fortunate to find itself a beloved family pet. The modern day Bedlington is sweet, loyal and always ready to play.
Characteristics
The Bedlington Terrier is an adorable little dog that looks rather like a lamb. Its unique features include a pear-shaped head, arched back, pointy tail and ears that are clipped to have little poms of hair on the tips. The coat is a mixture of soft and stiff hairs and may be liver, blue or sandy.
Temperament
The Bedlington Terrier may look like a lamb, but it has the heart of a lion. A true terrier, this breed is self-confident and bold. They are very playful dogs, as well, and are loyal and loving with family members. The Bedlington Terrier does very well with children, especially those within its own family. This breed tends to be a bit more reserved around strangers, but is not considered overly shy or aggressive. Like many terriers, the Bedlington likes to bark and chase smaller animals. If your Bedlington Terrier is expected to live with other dogs or cats, exposure to them as a pup is important. True to its terrier nature, this dog can be a bit headstrong, so training and exercise are important to ensure a happy, well-adjusted companion. Overall, the Bedlington Terrier makes a good-tempered, affectionate pet.
Care
The coat of the Bedlington Terrier definitely requires regular attention. While it sheds very little, it does need frequent clipping – usually about once every six weeks. The coat is clipped close to the body and head and left slightly longer on the legs. The trademark poms on the tips of the ears add to the unique appearance of the Bedlington Terrier. Hair on the insides of the ears should be hand-plucked in order to keep them clean and prevent infection. This breed does not have sensitive skin and can tolerate frequent bathing. Brushing should be done regularly to avoid matting between haircuts. For more detailed info, take a look at the Bedlington Terrier Grooming page.
Training
Like other terriers, the Bedlington can get into mischief if not exercised properly. This is an active little dog and loves to go on long daily walks. The Bedlington Terrier loves to run, but don’t trust them in an unenclosed area. They are very fast and once involved in the hot pursuit of a chase, you would have definite trouble keeping up. Training is important with this breed on order to establish your role as leader of the household. The Bedlington is smart and will do extremely well with firm, consistent training using positive methods.