Andrea Arden 
Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terrier: The Lamb-Like Companion
Graceful Terriers in Sheep's Clothing
Bedlington Terriers, named for the English mining shire where they were first bred, are genial housemates, alert watchdogs, versatile athletes, and irresistibly cuddly companions. With their distinctive lamb-like appearance, these dogs combine elegance with terrier tenacity.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Bedlington Terrier—from their fascinating history as vermin hunters to their modern role as affectionate family members and their specific care requirements.
Keep reading to discover if this unique and charming breed is the right match for your family and lifestyle!
Basic Information
The Bedlington Terrier is a small, graceful dog known for its distinctive lamb-like appearance, arched back, and curly coat. Despite their gentle appearance, they possess the heart and courage of a true terrier.
| Other Names | Rothbury Terrier, Gypsy Dog |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Terrier (AKC) |
| Origin | England |
| Height | Males: 16-17.5 inches; Females: 15-16.5 inches |
| Weight | 17-23 pounds (7.7-10.4 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
| Coat | Curly, crisp texture, distinctive topknot, nonshedding |
| Color | Blue, liver, sandy, or any of these with tan points |
| Temperament | Affectionate, playful, intelligent, courageous |
| Energy Level | Medium to High - requires regular daily exercise |
| Good With | Families with older children; owners with some dog experience |
Did You Know?
The first Bedlington Terrier was named Piper and was said to still be hunting at the grand age of 14, despite being nearly blind and toothless. Piper is also known for saving a child from a pig, keeping the animal at bay until help arrived.
History and Origin
The Bedlington Terrier has a rich history that traces back to the mining town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England, where they were developed as versatile working dogs.
Early Development
Originally known as the Rothbury or Rodbury Terrier, the breed was first developed in the 18th century by miners in the Rothbury area of Northumberland. These dogs were bred from a combination of local terriers with outcrosses to Whippets and Dandie Dinmont Terriers.
Despite their gentle, lamb-like appearance, Bedlingtons were tough working dogs known as effective vermin killers, poacher's sidekicks, and fighters. They were particularly valued for their ability to hunt rats, badgers, and other vermin in the mines and countryside.
Breed Recognition
The breed was first shown at a dog show in 1870 in Bedlington. The Bedlington Terrier Club was established in 1875. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1886. The name "Bedlington Terrier" was officially applied to the breed in 1825, though some dogs have pedigrees that can be traced back to 1782.
Modern Development
The Bedlington Terrier's journey to becoming a recognized breed involved several key developments:
- 1700s: Developed in Northumberland, England as a working terrier
- 1825: First dog officially called a Bedlington Terrier (Young Piper)
- 1870: First appearance in dog shows
- 1875: Bedlington Terrier Club established
- 1886: Recognized by the American Kennel Club
- Modern Era: Developed as a companion dog while maintaining working abilities
Today, responsible breeders focus on producing dogs with stable temperaments suitable for family life while maintaining the breed's distinctive appearance and versatile nature.
Appearance & Physical Traits
The Bedlington Terrier presents a unique, lamb-like appearance that conceals a muscular, athletic body built for speed and endurance.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Graceful, muscular but agile, with a distinctive arched back
- Head: Narrow, deep and rounded, pear-shaped with a distinctive topknot
- Eyes: Almond-shaped, small, and bright
- Ears: Triangular, hanging flat against cheeks with whimsical tips
- Tail: Set low, tapering, carried curved slightly above body
Coat and Colors
- Texture: Unique combination of hard and soft hairs, crisp but not wiry
- Colors: Blue, liver, or sandy, each of which may have tan points
- Coat Changes: Puppies are born darker and lighten with age due to the greying gene
- Topknot: Lighter in color than the body, a distinctive breed feature
Size and Proportion
Bedlington Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs with a unique build:
- Height: Males 41-44 cm (16-17.5 in), Females 38-42 cm (15-16.5 in)
- Weight: 17-23 pounds (7.7-10.4 kg)
- Build: Muscular yet graceful, longer than tall, with a light springy gait
- Overall Impression: Resembles a lamb but moves with grace and agility
Temperament & Personality
The Bedlington Terrier possesses a charming temperament that combines affection, intelligence, and terrier spirit in a unique package.
Affectionate & Loyal
Bedlingtons form strong bonds with their families and are known for their devotion. They are gentle and loving with their owners, making them excellent companions.
Intelligent & Inquisitive
Highly intelligent with a curious nature, Bedlingtons are quick learners and problem solvers. They enjoy mental challenges and can be quite inventive in their play.
Courageous & Alert
Despite their gentle appearance, Bedlingtons have proverbial courage and make excellent watchdogs. They are alert to their surroundings and will bark to alert their family.
Playful & Energetic
Bedlingtons maintain a playful, youthful exuberance throughout their lives. They enjoy interactive games and have a good sense of humor that endears them to their families.
Important Temperament Considerations
Bedlington Terriers can be reactive and may not get along with unknown dogs, despite being affectionate with their family. Early and ongoing socialization is crucial. They have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals. While generally good with familiar children, they can be sensitive to rough handling and are better suited for families with older, sensible children who understand how to interact gently with dogs.
Temperament Traits
Exercise & Activity Needs
As an athletic breed with terrier energy, the Bedlington Terrier requires regular daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Daily Walks
45-60 Minutes
At least one hour of exercise daily, preferably split into several walks. Bedlingtons enjoy varied routes and environments to explore with their curious nature.
They have a light, springy gait and enjoy brisk walks.
Vigorous Exercise
20-30 Minutes
Running, playing fetch, or participating in dog sports. Their Whippet ancestry gives them surprising speed and endurance for their size.
Excellent swimmers with speed comparable to water dogs.
Mental Stimulation
Daily
Training sessions, puzzle toys, and canine sports to challenge their intelligent minds. They excel at agility, earthdog trials, and other activities.
A mentally understimulated Bedlington may develop behavioral issues.
Weekly Exercise Schedule
- Daily: 45-60 minutes of walking + 20-30 minutes of vigorous activity
- 4-5 times per week: Off-leash running in secure areas
- Weekly: Structured training sessions or participation in canine sports like agility
- Ongoing: Access to puzzle toys and interactive games
Exercise Considerations
Bedlington Terriers have moderate to high energy levels and need consistent daily exercise. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they may develop behavioral issues such as excessive barking, digging, or chewing. Due to their strong prey drive, they should be exercised in secure areas. Their curly coat makes them prone to overheating in hot weather, so avoid vigorous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
Diet & Food
Proper nutrition is essential for supporting the Bedlington Terrier's active lifestyle and preventing breed-specific health issues.
Puppy Diet
0-12 Months
High-quality puppy food formulated for small to medium breeds, fed 3-4 times daily. Small-breed foods with appropriate kibble size encourage chewing and improve digestion.
Puppies need frequent meals to support their fast metabolism.
Adult Diet
1-7 Years
High-quality adult dog food with controlled copper levels, fed twice daily. Amount varies based on activity level but typically 1.5 cups daily split into two meals.
Adults need a balanced diet to maintain energy for their active lifestyle.
Senior Diet
7+ Years
Senior formula with joint support, controlled calories, and continued copper management. Monitor weight closely as seniors are prone to weight gain.
Seniors may benefit from smaller, more frequent meals.
Nutritional Requirements
- Protein: Moderate to high from quality sources for muscle maintenance
- Copper Control: Food with controlled copper levels to prevent toxicosis
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Controlled Portions: Avoid overfeeding as they can be prone to weight gain
- Small Kibble: Appropriate for their smaller mouths
Feeding Considerations
Bedlington Terriers are prone to copper storage disease, a serious genetic condition where copper accumulates in the liver. It's crucial to feed a diet with controlled copper levels and avoid copper-rich foods. Using a wide, shallow food bowl can prevent their distinctive topknot from becoming tangled or dirty during meals. Always provide fresh water and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating.
Health & Care
Bedlington Terriers are generally healthy with a lifespan of 12-16 years, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions.
Common Health Concerns
| Health Condition | Description | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Storage Disease | Hereditary condition where copper accumulates in the liver | DNA testing, controlled copper diet, medication in severe cases |
| Retinal Dysplasia | Eye condition where retina doesn't develop properly | Genetic testing, regular eye exams, no treatment available |
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap dislocation common in small breeds | Weight management, joint supplements, surgery if severe |
| Renal Dysplasia | Kidney abnormality present from birth | Genetic testing, management of symptoms |
| Ear Infections | Prone to ear inflammation and infections | Regular ear cleaning, keeping ears dry |
| Skin Allergies | Prone to skin allergy atopy and paw pad issues | Identify triggers, veterinary management, proper grooming |
Grooming Requirements
The Bedlington Terrier's unique curly coat requires regular, specialized grooming to maintain its appearance and health:
At-Home Care
Weekly/Daily
Brush for 5 minutes daily and comb through at least once a week to prevent matting. Regular brushing distributes natural oils and removes dead hair.
Their nonshedding coat requires consistent maintenance.
Professional Grooming
Every 6-8 Weeks
Regular clipping every two months to maintain the breed's distinctive shape. This can be done by a professional groomer or learned from a breeder.
Show clipping is time-consuming and requires expertise.
Preventive Care
- Regular Veterinary Visits: Annual check-ups, more frequently for seniors
- Copper Testing: DNA testing for copper storage disease
- Eye Screening: Regular eye exams for hereditary conditions
- Dental Care: Regular brushing and professional cleanings
- Ear Care: Weekly cleaning to prevent infections
Training & Behavior
Training a Bedlington Terrier requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their intelligent but sometimes independent nature.
Training Approach
- Positive Reinforcement: Use reward-based training with treats, praise, and play
- Short Sessions: Keep training brief and engaging to maintain their attention
- Early Start: Begin training and socialization from puppyhood
- Consistency: Use the same commands and expectations consistently
- Make it Fun: Incorporate games and variety to keep them engaged
Socialization Needs
Early and ongoing socialization is crucial for Bedlington Terriers:
- Puppy Classes: Enroll in puppy kindergarten for early socialization
- Various Environments: Expose to different people, places, and situations
- Other Dogs: Carefully supervised introductions to other dogs
- Small Animals: Caution around small pets due to strong prey drive
Training Tips
Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and can be surprisingly trainable, especially in dog sports like agility where they excel. However, they have an independent streak and can get bored easily, so keeping training sessions short, varied, and rewarding is key. Their sensitivity means they respond best to positive methods rather than harsh corrections. A good recall is essential as their strong prey drive may lead them to chase small animals. They need a calm, sensible, and affectionate trainer to balance out their spicy yet sensitive nature.
Common Behavioral Issues
- Barking: Can be vocal and will bark to alert or when bored
- Digging: Natural terrier instinct to dig, especially if understimulated
- Prey Drive: Strong instinct to chase small animals
- Dog Reactivity: May be unfriendly with unknown dogs
- Separation Anxiety: Can develop if left alone too much due to strong family attachment
Living Environment
Bedlington Terriers are adaptable dogs that can thrive in various living situations when their exercise and companionship needs are met.
Ideal Home Setup
- Space: Can adapt to apartment living with sufficient daily exercise
- Yard: Secure, fenced yard is recommended for play and safe off-leash time
- Climate: Tolerate various climates but need protection from extreme heat
- Indoor Access: Should live indoors as part of the family, not kept outdoors
Family Compatibility
- Children: Good with sensible children but sensitive to rough handling; better with older children
- Other Pets: May coexist with other pets if raised together; caution with small animals due to prey drive
- Seniors: Suitable for active seniors who can meet their exercise needs
- First-time Owners: Better suited for owners with some dog experience, particularly with terriers
Important Considerations
Bedlington Terriers form strong bonds with their families and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They should not be left alone for more than four hours and ideally should have someone around most of the time. Their high intelligence means they need both physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors. Their unique grooming requirements represent a significant time and financial commitment that potential owners should consider.
Best Living Situation
The ideal home for a Bedlington Terrier is with an active family or individual who:
- Has some experience with dogs, particularly terriers
- Can provide daily exercise and mental stimulation
- Has time for consistent training and socialization
- Values a loyal, affectionate companion
- Is committed to regular grooming maintenance
Role & Purpose
Throughout history, Bedlington Terriers have served in various roles, transitioning from working dogs to beloved companions while maintaining their versatile abilities.
Historical Roles
- Vermin Hunter: Used to hunt rats, badgers, and other vermin in mines and countryside
- Poacher's Dog: Employed by Romani people and poachers for hunting game
- Racing Dog: Competed in dog racing and coursing before Whippets became more popular
- Fighting Dog: Unfortunately used in dog fighting due to their courage
Modern Roles
- Family Companion: Affectionate and loyal family pet
- Performance Sports: Excel in agility, obedience, and other dog sports
- Show Dog: Successful in conformation shows with distinctive appearance
- Therapy Work: Can be trained as therapy dogs with proper temperament
- Watchdog: Effective alert dog despite gentle appearance
Historical Significance
Bedlington Terriers were originally known as "Gypsy Dogs" as they were used by Romanies for poaching. They were also called Rothbury Terriers after the Lord of Rothbury who took a particular liking to the dogs. The breed motto "the head of a lamb and the heart of a lion" perfectly captures their unique combination of gentle appearance and courageous spirit. In 1948, a Bedlington Terrier named Rock Ridge Night Rocket won best in show at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Breed Strengths
- Versatility: Adaptable to various roles and activities
- Intelligence: Quick learners capable of complex tasks
- Loyalty: Deeply devoted to their families
- Courage: Brave despite gentle appearance
- Athleticism: Surprising speed and endurance for their size
Cost & Availability
Bedlington Terriers are a relatively rare breed with specific considerations regarding cost and availability.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500 - $3,000 | From reputable breeders; show quality at higher end |
| Adoption Fee | $200 - $500 | From breed-specific rescues or shelters |
| Initial Supplies | $300 - $500 | Crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, grooming tools |
| Initial Vet Care | $200 - $400 | Exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter |
| Training Classes | $100 - $300 | Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience |
Annual Costs
- Food: $400 - $600 for high-quality dog food
- Veterinary Care: $400 - $700 for routine care, vaccines, preventatives
- Grooming: $600 - $1,000 for professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
- Preventive Medications: $200 - $400 for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Training/Activities: $200 - $500 for ongoing classes or dog sports
- Miscellaneous: $200 - $400 for toys, treats, replacements
Availability
- Breeders: Limited number of reputable breeders; research carefully
- Rescues: Available through breed-specific rescues occasionally
- Popularity: Considered a relatively rare breed
- Geographic Variation: More common in some regions than others
- Waiting Period: Often need to wait for a puppy from a good breeder
Financial Considerations
Beyond routine expenses, potential Bedlington owners should budget for regular professional grooming, which represents a significant ongoing cost. The initial investment in a well-bred puppy from health-tested parents can help reduce the risk of expensive health issues later in life, particularly copper storage disease. Their intelligence and energy level mean they benefit from ongoing training and activities, which represents an additional ongoing expense. Pet insurance is recommended to help manage potential breed-specific health costs.
Similar Breeds
If you're interested in the Bedlington Terrier but want to explore similar breeds, consider these alternatives:
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
Another hypoallergenic terrier with a soft coat and friendly disposition. Larger than Bedlingtons but similar in energy level and intelligence.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Close relative with similar origins. Distinctive appearance with a "topknot" and long body. More reserved than Bedlingtons but equally determined.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Another soft-coated terrier with similar versatility and intelligence. Larger and more strong-willed than Bedlingtons but shares their loyalty and spirit.
Whippet
Shares ancestry with Bedlingtons and similar graceful build. Much lower grooming needs but similar affectionate nature with family.
Breed Comparison
| Breed | Similarities to Bedlington | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Soft-Coated Wheaten | Hypoallergenic coat, friendly, energetic | Larger size, different coat texture, more exuberant |
| Dandie Dinmont | Similar origins, distinctive topknot, determined | More reserved, different body shape, less energetic |
| Kerry Blue | Soft coat, versatile, intelligent, loyal | Larger, more strong-willed, different coloration |
| Whippet | Shared ancestry, graceful, affectionate with family | Different appearance, much lower grooming needs, quieter |
Frequently Asked Questions
When properly socialized, Bedlington Terriers can be excellent family dogs for households with older, sensible children. They are affectionate, loyal, and form strong bonds with their families. However, they can be sensitive to rough handling and may not tolerate the unpredictable behavior of very young children. Their terrier nature means they can be reactive when provoked, so all interactions with children should be supervised. They're better suited for families with some dog experience who understand terrier temperament.
Yes, Bedlington Terriers are considered a hypoallergenic breed. They have a nonshedding coat that produces minimal dander, which is the primary trigger for most pet allergies. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, as allergies can also be triggered by proteins in a dog's saliva and urine. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat and minimize allergens. People with severe allergies should spend time with the breed before committing to ensure they don't have a reaction.
Bedlington Terriers can be vocal dogs and are known to bark to alert their owners to visitors or anything unusual. They have a distinctive hound-like bark that has been compared to a machine gun. With proper training and adequate mental and physical stimulation, excessive barking can be managed. However, they will always be alert watchdogs who vocalize when they perceive something out of the ordinary. Early training to establish barking boundaries is recommended.
Bedlington Terriers need at least one hour of exercise daily, ideally more. This should include walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. They excel at activities that involve running, jumping, and retrieval, such as agility. Their Whippet ancestry gives them surprising speed and endurance. Without adequate exercise, they can become bored and develop behavioral problems. They also need regular mental challenges to keep their intelligent minds occupied.
Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and can be surprisingly trainable, especially in dog sports where they excel. However, they have an independent terrier streak and can get bored with repetition. They respond best to positive, reward-based training methods and consistent, patient handling. Their sensitivity means they don't respond well to harsh corrections. Early socialization and training are essential, and they need a trainer who can balance firmness with affection.
The most significant health concern in Bedlington Terriers is copper storage disease, a genetic condition where copper accumulates in the liver and can lead to liver failure. Other common issues include patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), various eye conditions like retinal dysplasia, ear infections, and skin problems. Responsible breeders test for these conditions, and potential owners should ask for health clearances. With proper care and regular veterinary check-ups, Bedlingtons are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-16 years.
Yes, Bedlington Terriers can adapt well to apartment living if their exercise needs are met. They are small to medium-sized dogs and don't require a large living space. However, they are active indoors and need daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation. Apartment dwellers must be committed to providing regular walks, trips to dog parks, and indoor play sessions. Their moderate energy level and generally quiet nature (when properly exercised) make them suitable for smaller living spaces.
The average lifespan of a Bedlington Terrier is 12-16 years. With proper care, some individuals may live even longer. Factors that influence lifespan include genetics, diet, exercise, preventive veterinary care, and management of breed-specific health issues like copper storage disease. Responsible breeding practices that screen for genetic conditions can contribute to longer, healthier lives for these dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help extend your Bedlington's lifespan.
Bottom Line: Is a Bedlington Terrier Right for You?
The Bedlington Terrier is a remarkable breed that combines the appearance of a lamb with the heart of a lion. These graceful, intelligent dogs offer unwavering devotion to their families, impressive athletic ability, and a unique charm that turns heads wherever they go. However, they're not the right choice for everyone. Their significant grooming requirements, exercise needs, and potential health issues demand an owner who's prepared for the commitment. If you're someone with some dog experience who has time for daily exercise, regular grooming, and the patience to train a sensitive yet spirited terrier, the Bedlington might be your perfect companion. This historic breed rewards dedicated owners with years of loyalty, entertainment, and the unique satisfaction of living with one of the most distinctive and charming canine companions available.
References and Further Readings
1- Canine models of copper toxicosis for understanding mammalian copper metabolism
2- A comparison of copper-loading disease in Bedlington terriers and Wilson's disease in humans
3- Prevalence of the exon 2 deletion of the COMMD1 gene in Australian Bedlington terriers
4- Bedlington Terrier Care, Grooming, and Health Information
5- Guide to Owning a Bedlington Terrier: Facts and Characteristics
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