Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier by David Owsiany
The Bedlington Terrier’s appearance is very similar to a lamb. Originally known as a Rothbury Terrier, its exact origin is not really known. It has been said gypsy nailmakers who settled in Rothbury were the original breeders, however, it is also believed Joseph Ainsley of Bedlington was responsible for the breeding of the first Bedlington Terrier in the 1820s.

Bedlington Terriers have a terrific talent for hunting small game and underground rodents. They are extremely quick which leads to the belief the Whippet might have been one of its ancestors. It is also thought the the Otterhound and Dandie Dinmont Terrier may have been contributors to the Bedlington breed. .

In 1870, the Bedlington Terrier entered the exhibition ring and in 1877, The Bedlington Terrier Club of England was established. Since then, the Bedlington Terrier has had its share in winning many notable exhibitions.

Height: The height for Bedlington Terrier dogs: 16-17 inches (41-43cm) and for females: 15-16 inches (38-41cm)

Weight: The weight for a Bedlington Terrier dog: 18-23 pounds (8-10kg) and for a female: 18-23 pounds (8-10kg)

Coat Type: The coat of the Bedlington Terrier is a combination of hard and soft, thick hair. Although this breed is virtually shed-proof, professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks is necessary.

Color: The Bedlington Terrier’s coat can be blue, liver or sandy. Their coat becomes paler as the dog gets older.

Temperament: The Bedlington Terrier is an intelligent, playful, loving family dog and great companion. They are also headstrong and are known to be intense fighters and very courageous. Bedlington Terriers are fast runners, barkers, diggers and they chase anything. It is not recommended to ever let them off their leash when they are not in a confined area. Bedlington Terriers are not recommended for young children. This high-energy breed needs a lot of vigorous exercise and playtime.

Health Problems: Bedlington Terriers are prone to serious eye problems, liver disease (Copper Storage Disease), thyroid problems and hereditary kidney disease. According to two UK studies, the medial age for a Bedlington Terrier is approximately 13.5 years.

Classifications:
AKC: Group 4 Terrier Group
ANKC: Group 2 Terrier
CKC: Terrier Group
FCI: Group 3; Section1 – Large & medium-sized Terriers
KC: Terrier Group
NZKC: Terrier
UKC: Terrier Group

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