Breed of the Month: Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier dates all the way back to 1782 and originated in Bedlington, Northern England. Bedlington Terriers were originally bred for hunting vermin and rodents and nowadays are used for hunting, sport and companionship. It is very common for people to take a second look when passing a Bedlington because they so closely resemble a lamb. In fact, they are said to have the “head of a lamb and the heart of a lion.” You will immediately fall in love when you meet this graceful and loving breed. Like most terriers, the Bedlington has a lot of energy. Their energy needs can be met by going on a walk, jog, hike or game of fetch.

Bedlingtons love to swim and are even said to swim so well and fast that they rival the Newfoundland. Bedlingtons are very fast and have a high endurance – it isn’t surprising to hear that they have some Whippet in their family tree. Because they have been bred to chase small animals outdoors, it is best to have a fenced in yard and walk them on a leash to avoid them running loose. Bedlingtons can be very stubborn so it is recommended to get them socialized and into training at an early age.

If you are looking for a unique, active breed that is always down for some fun but also happy to curl up on the couch and relax, then the Bedlington Terrier may be the right breed for you!

Weight:

• Male: 18-24 lbs.
• Female: 17-23 lbs.

Height:

• Male: 16-17 in.
• Female: 15-16 in.

Features:

• Breed Group: Terrier
• Medium breed dog
• Narrow head
• Kind, friendly eyes, brown or black in colour
• Black or brown nose
• Naturally floppy ears
• Deep chest
• Curly, soft coat
• Coat colours and patterns include Liver, blue and sandy. Solid or bicoloured. All are dark at birth and lighten with age.

Expectations:

• Exercise requirements: Moderate – requires daily exercise 20-40 mins.
• Lifespan: 14-16 years
• Affection Level: High
• Energy Level: High
• Drool Level: Low
• Bark Level: Moderate/high
• Grooming needs: High
• Shedding Level: Low
• Intelligence: High
• Child-Friendly: High
• Cat/ Dog-Friendly: High

Common Health Problems:

• Liver disease called copper storage hepatopathy
• Eye problems such as retinal dysplasia, distichiasis, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

Written By: Kylie – Client Care Representative