small Breed Dogs
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Bedlington Terriers
Average Weight: 17-23 pounds (7.71 - 10.43 kg) 
Average Height:  15.5 - 16.5  inches (39.37 – 41.91 cm)
Pronounced: BED-ling-tuhn   TEH-ree-er
Group:  Terrier
Life Span: 16 Years
Average Litter:4
Origin: England

Description

You are not alone if you think that this small breed dog resembles a sheep.  Bedlington Terriers actually can have two very different looks. When shaved down to a "Show Clip", they look quite exceptional as in the picture above, much a like a small lamb with the exception of a ball of fur at the end of each floppy ear.  With a "Puppy Clip" this small dog has a more laid back, casual appearance. The coat is woolly and although this dog is graceful, he is strong and muscular.  The head is a pear shape and the tail is very thin and long.  The coat is unique in that it is rather weather resistant and crisp to the touch.  It is a blend of hard and soft hair that has a tendency to curl.

Color

The coat lightens as with maturity.  Colors are Blue, tan, liver or sandy.  The topknot is lighter than the body coat.  Blue is actually a very dilute, faded black, often appearing to be a gray but when out in the sunlight you will see that hint of a bluish tint. 

Personality

Bedington Terriers are known to be more sensitive than other types of Terriers and much more quieter, due most likely, to their Whippet ancestry.  However, once encouraged, he is full of spirit, lively and playful.  Known for great speed and endurance, he excels in agility and obedience.  A very loyal companion and wonderful family pet, this small breed dog gets along excellent with people of all ages, whether in small group or large.   Loving to play , while at the same time being very graceful, he is also an great watchdog as he is often on alert for strangers and will let you know if he senses something he feels you should be aware of.

Origin & History

The Rothbury or Northumberland Fox Terrier can from the north of England where it was kept to control vermin (called ratters).  Beginning in the late 1700's, it became popular with coal miners who then cross bred the Rothbury to the Whippet, which created the Bedlington that we know of today.  The crossing produced one of the gamest terriers, capable of swimming down an otter or hunting down a rabbit.  The Dandie Dinmont is also believed to be closely connected with this breed.

Health

There are some health issues that this dog is prone to:
  • Copper Toxosis - This is the most significant hereditary problem.  IT is an inherited defect in the metabolism of copper and is known to cause chronic hepatitis which then can lead to slowly progressive liver disease.
  • Retinal dysplasia - This is inherited abnormal development of the eye's retina. It can cause vision problems such as blind spots. In many cases, so small that the dog does not even notice.  In severe cases, if  it fully detaches, it would cause blindness.
  • Luxating patella - This is a dislocation or "slipping" of the kneecap.
  • Copper Storage Disease - A liver disease which affects approximately 4% of the breed
Exercise

 This is a very active breed who enjoys lots of exercise and playtime.  A good 20-30 minute daily walk is suggested and any play time that an owner feels up to is usually greatly appreciated.  This dog loves to be able to run fast and then jump and should be allowed to safely do this if at all possible.  Apartment living is acceptable as long as those walks can be given.

Grooming

The intensity of grooming the coat will depend on whether the owner wants to have the show clip,  in which the coat is shaved down quite close to accentuate the body and a tassel is left at the bottom of each ear.  If left to grow, it does still require professional grooming, as it will look rather matted.  A pet owner can clip short areas at home such as the ears, checks, throat and belly.  Professional full body grooming should be done every 6 - 8 weeks.  Grooming tools often used will be:
  • A soft slicker brush
  • A comb, with fine to medium teeth
  • nail trimmers - if trimming at home
  • Qwik Stop (or other styptic powder) for nails accidently trimmed too short
  • After Shave - to reduce irritation and scratching on shaved skin
  • Cotton swabs and ear cleaning solution
  • Ear powder (for gripping/plucking hair from inside ears)
  • Hemostats - for pulling hair in the ears that are deeper than the fingers can reach
Shedding is very minimal due to the texture of the fur.

Care & Training

Grooming, of course, should be kept up to maintain a nice, clean look and for hygiene reasons. Ear care, including the removal of long hairs inside the ears will be needed to avoid infections. Very obedient, an owner should be sure to follow proper training techniques, as this dog will do very well when trained appropriately.  An owner should have the time and ability to offer daily walks of at least 30 minutes and if possible, free running play time 1 -2 times per week. 

If you are thinking about getting a puppy, you may wish to read some important information about purchasing a puppy. Just click here.

If you already own a Bedlington Terrier or other Terrier, you may wish to click here for more detailed are information




                    
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