Bedlington Terrier

Breed: Bedlington Terrier | Size: Small | Average lifespan: 12+ years |Character: Gentle, intelligent, and active | Coat: Short | Origin: England.

How soft is the Bedlington Terrier? Are they as soft as a sheep? The Bedlington Terrier is as cute as a teddy bear and looks a bit like a Poodle. However, these dogs are actually very ancient hunting dogs that are known for their vivacity and their ardor.

The origins of the Bedlington Terrier

This dog breed is “so British”

These born hunters are always on the lookout for prey and would not hesitate to dig for them if necessary. They appeared around the border region between England and Scotland around two centuries ago. These dogs frequently accompanied local miners to get rid of rats from underground tunnels in the past. The Bedlington Terrier was popularized across the Channel at the end of the 19th century for their ability to hunt rabbits and foxes.

The day Sir Rothbury met Lady Bedlington

The Bedlington Terrier was first known under the name Rothbury Terrier. Found at the northeast of England, Rothbury and Bedlington are two British cities that are very close geographically. It is very likely that a cross between a Rothbury and a Bedlington took place on a hunting trip. It is from this cross that the Bedlington Terrier came, identified for the first time in 1877 and recognized officially in 1886 by the American Kennel Club. 

The Whippet Greyhound is also one of their ancestors of the Bedlington Terrier breed, which allowed them to increase their speed. They participated in many contests in the United Kingdom and regularly won prizes, they are distinguished, in particular, for their obedience and agility.

The character of the Bedlington Terrier 

Today, Bedlington Terriers have become incredibly appreciated for their gentleness and atypical physical characteristics that remind people of sheep. While these breeds are a little rowdy, they are also very loyal dogs towards their owners.

The gentleness of sheep

While they can be tender and warm at home, the Bedlington Terrier is, nevertheless, a dynamic and playful dog when they are outside. They can be very fast. At the house, these dogs are affectionate and give a lot of love to members of the family. They can be gentle if they get outside often, because they are the softest of dogs when they return home. 

It’s an intelligent and proud dog that has a lot of confidence. As they are very flexible, they easily accept change and can be accompanied on a trip without any problem.

A small dog with boundless energy

The Bedlington Terrier, with its hunting genes, is a very active dog that needs to get exercise daily. Without it, these dogs can become aggressive by destroying everything around them. While they seem very calm at first glance, this little dog is a bit stubborn. They will also not hesitate to attack other dogs, no matter their size, if they feel threatened. 

This dog proves to be very courageous and can be a great guard dog if a stranger invades their territory. They can be aggressive if necessary, without barking excessively. If the work of socialization is not done at a young age, your Bedlington Terrier can become fearful and manifest a real fear towards strangers. 

Despite their teddy-like appearance, their unpredictable character is not a good match for young children. They do not appreciate provocation and being provoked. They can become very threatening or even attack. However, with good training, they are capable dogs, and in most cases, can adapt to cohabitation with another dog and cat. 

As they were hunters in the past, it is possible for these dogs to run away. Because of this, it is preferable to live in a closed environment.

The physical characteristics of the Bedlington Terrier

General

These small dogs are extremely adorable and they have a very graceful allure. Their body reminds us of the form of the Greyhound, because of their genetic heritage linked to late crosses with the Whippet. 

Head

They have a pear-shaped head covered with a white and lush toupet. Their eyes are small, dark, and slightly sunken in. They have medium-long ears that are long and fall down. Their nostrils are a wide and their teeth are large and strong for a dog of small size. 

Body

Their refined and delicate body is muscular and flexible. The lower back is arched and the belly slightly tucked in like its Greyhound ancestors. Their tail is curved and held very elegantly. 

Coat, color, and grooming

Coat 

The breed’s coat is felted, thick and upright. It’s likely to curl, especially around the head – not unlike a sheep’s coat!

Colors

The Bedlington Terrier’s coat can be white, blue, blue and tan, liver, brown or sandy, with or without tan.

Grooming

With a soft but full coat, the Bedlington Terrier requires regular care and grooming. Although they don’t shed much, frequent brushing and professional grooming are essential. In fact, the Bedlington Terrier’s head and coat need regular trimming to maintain their natural beauty. On a daily basis, you’ll certainly need to clean their eyes with a tear solution, as they tend to run.

Did you know?

This breed is not afraid of swimming in the water, especially when they are searching for prey. These small dogs appreciate being in the water. Therefore, do not hesitate to take them swimming during the summer. This will allow them to cool down, especially because they do not take summer heat very well.