Bedlington Terrier

Ultimate Dog Wiki

At first glance, you might think the Bedlington Terrier just walked out of a fancy grooming salon, with its lamb-like coat and elegant demeanor. But don’t be fooled — beneath that soft, fluffy exterior beats the heart of a fierce and fearless terrier. Known for its speed, intelligence, and boundless energy, the Bedlington Terrier is equal parts elegant showdog and scrappy working dog.

Lifespawn

Approximately 11 to 16 years.

Weight

17 to 23 pounds (8 to 10 kg).

Height

15 to 17.5 inches (38 to 44 cm) at the shoulder.

Colours

Blue, liver, or sandy, with or without tan points.

Size

Small to medium.

Breed Group

Terrier Group

Quick Facts

  • Suitable for both novice and experienced owners;
  • Requires early socialization and basic training
  • Moderate energy; enjoys regular walks and playtime to maintain physical and mental health.
  • Small to medium-sized dog.
  • Low; minimal drooling.
  • Moderate; regular grooming and professional clipping every few months.
  • Low-shedding breed; may be suitable for some allergy sufferers.
  • Moderate; may bark to alert or during play.
  • Alert and inquisitive; can be a good watchdog.
  • Generally good with other pets if properly socialized; may chase smaller animals due to prey drive.
  • Good with children; supervision recommended during interactions.

History and Origin

Development and Early Beginnings

The Bedlington Terrier hails from Northumberland, England, and its history stretches back to the late 18th century. Originally bred to hunt and exterminate vermin, the Bedlington was particularly skilled at hunting rats, rabbits, and badgers — small game that required both speed and tenacity. Known then as Rothbury Terriers (named after the Rothbury Forest in the area), these dogs were prized by poachers and miners alike for their ability to chase down and eliminate pests with ruthless efficiency.

The Bedlington Terrier’s early days weren’t spent lounging around; these dogs were hardworking and tough, often used by miners to hunt in the coal mines, where rats were a persistent problem. They were also a favorite among poachers, who relied on the breed’s speed and agility to pursue game quietly and quickly. It wasn’t uncommon for a Bedlington to be known for its hunting prowess by day and its participation in dog racing or ratting contests by night. Despite their somewhat aristocratic appearance today, these terriers were the working-class heroes of the British countryside.

The Rise of Bedlington Terrier

By the 19th century, the breed’s popularity began to shift from working dog to show dog, particularly after Lord Rothbury adopted the breed and polished its image. Around this time, the Bedlington was officially named after the mining town of Bedlington, where it had developed a reputation as both a fearless hunter and a loyal companion. Selective breeding enhanced their sleek, lamb-like appearance while maintaining their terrier spirit.

The breed’s elegant look, paired with its undeniable work ethic, made the Bedlington a favorite in the show ring by the early 20th century. Its distinctive pear-shaped head, soft coat, and graceful movement earned the breed admiration for its beauty as well as its talents in both hunting and racing. The Bedlington Terrier was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1886, and since then, it has been a beloved fixture in both the show ring and as a family companion.

Role in Society

While the Bedlington Terrier started as a working dog bred for hunting, its role has evolved significantly over the years. Today, the Bedlington is just as likely to be found competing in dog shows as it is chasing squirrels in the backyard. Thanks to its intelligence, speed, and agility, this breed excels in agility competitions, obedience trials, and even racing events, though its days of hunting underground are mostly behind it.

The Bedlington is also a wonderful family companion, known for its affectionate nature and ability to bond closely with its humans. Despite its history as a tough hunter, the Bedlington Terrier has a gentle, playful side, making it a great choice for families with children or active households. However, don’t let the fluffy coat fool you — the Bedlington still retains the fiery spirit of a true terrier and won’t hesitate to chase after anything it deems worth pursuing.

Recognition by Kennel Clubs

The Bedlington Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as early as 1886 and has since earned a place in the Terrier Group. Its unique appearance and impressive history make it a standout in the breed ring, and it’s a regular competitor in dog shows worldwide.

Internationally, the breed is also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), where it is classified as a high-energy, working terrier. While the Bedlington might be less common than some other terriers, it’s beloved by those who appreciate both its elegant appearance and its working dog roots.



Physical Characteristics

The Bedlington Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed known for its graceful appearance and lamb-like coat. Though delicate in appearance, Bedlington Terriers are surprisingly muscular and agile, reflecting their origins as working dogs for hunting and vermin control:

  • Males and females typically stand between 15 to 17.5 inches (38–44 cm) at the shoulder.
  • They weigh between 17 to 23 pounds (7.7–10.4 kg).

Their slender build and arched back give them a unique look, setting them apart from other terrier breeds. Despite their light frame, they are strong and capable of great bursts of speed.

The Bedlington Terrier’s coat is one of its most distinctive features, often described as soft and curly with a woolly texture. The coat is made up of a combination of hard and soft hair, which gives it a crisp yet not wiry feel. It has a lamb-like appearance but is far from delicate, as the coat is designed to protect them in rough terrains.

  • Texture: The coat’s unique mix of textures helps protect the dog from harsh environments and makes it resistant to dirt and debris. While soft, the coat tends to curl, particularly on the head and body, while remaining closer to straight on the legs and muzzle.
  • Color: Bedlington Terriers come in a variety of solid colors and color mixes, including:
    • Blue
    • Liver
    • Sandy
    • Blue and tan, liver and tan, and sandy and tan are also common, where the tan points typically appear on the legs, chest, and face.

Interestingly, Bedlington Terriers are often born dark and gradually lighten as they mature, typically reaching their final color by around one year of age.

Their low-shedding coat requires regular grooming, making them popular among people with allergies. However, their coat needs specialized care, including regular trimming and clipping to maintain the distinctive Bedlington look, which features a topknot on the head and an overall lamb-like shape.

The Bedlington Terrier has several distinctive features that make it easily recognizable:

  • Head: Their most striking feature is their pear-shaped head, which is narrow and rounded with no stop (the area where the muzzle meets the forehead). The head is topped with a prominent silky topknot of soft hair, further emphasizing their lamb-like appearance.
  • Ears: Bedlington Terriers have low-set, triangular ears that hang close to the cheeks. The ears are covered with velvety hair and have a slight fringe, enhancing their elegant appearance.
  • Body and Legs: The breed has a graceful, arched back with a muscular yet sleek build. Their hindquarters are slightly higher than their shoulders, giving them a distinctive, racy silhouette. Their long, slender legs contribute to their speed and agility, making them surprisingly fast for their size.
  • Tail: The tail is moderately long and tapered, carried low with a slight curve but never curled over the back. It adds to the breed’s streamlined look.

The Bedlington’s appearance combines elegance with athleticism, allowing them to function as both a family pet and a capable working terrier.



Temperament and Behavior

The Bedlington Terrier is an intelligent and versatile breed, known for its ability to learn quickly and its eagerness to please. However, like many terriers, they can also be independent and stubborn at times. This independence can present challenges during training, especially if they detect inconsistency or leniency in their owner.

Positive reinforcement training works best with Bedlingtons, particularly when using treats or praise to motivate them. They respond well to clear, consistent commands, but they may become bored if training is too repetitive or lacks mental stimulation. Early socialization and obedience training are important to prevent behavioral issues, as their terrier instincts can sometimes lead them to chase smaller animals.

Bedlington Terriers have moderate to high energy levels and require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Despite their delicate appearance, they are hardy and athletic, needing at least 45 to 60 minutes of exercise per day. Long walks, playtime in the yard, or activities that engage their natural hunting instincts—such as chasing balls or participating in agility courses—are ideal.

They are also quite playful and enjoy interacting with their families. Bedlingtons thrive on games that challenge them both physically and mentally, such as fetch, hide-and-seek, or puzzle toys. While they are active, they also have a calm, gentle demeanor indoors, making them adaptable to different living environments.

The Bedlington Terrier is known for being a loyal and affectionate companion. They form strong bonds with their families and are typically very devoted to their owners. Unlike some other terrier breeds, Bedlingtons tend to be more laid-back and even-tempered, making them excellent companions in homes with children.

They are gentle and loving with their family members but can be wary of strangers, making early socialization important to ensure they grow up confident and friendly. Bedlingtons are known to have a sweet disposition, but they can also be protective if they feel their family is threatened, displaying a bold, fearless attitude when necessary.



Caring and Grooming

The Bedlington’s coat requires regular grooming to keep it in top condition. While they are low-shedding, their unique coat texture needs regular maintenance:

  • Brushing: Bedlington Terriers should be brushed at least once a week to prevent mats and tangles. A slicker brush and comb are typically used to keep the coat smooth and free of knots.
  • Trimming: Their coat grows continuously, so professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks is essential to maintain their lamb-like appearance. This includes trimming the coat to keep it close to the body and shaping the characteristic topknot on their head.

Their ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infection, as the hair inside the ears can trap debris and moisture. Dental care, including regular brushing, is also important to prevent gum disease, as small breeds can be prone to dental issues.

Bedlington Terriers are active dogs that need regular exercise to burn off their energy. Daily walks, combined with playtime or off-leash running in a secure area, will meet their exercise needs. While they enjoy running and playing, they do not require as much high-intensity exercise as some other terriers, making them adaptable to both urban and suburban living.

Engaging them in activities like agility, flyball, or even simple games that stimulate their natural prey drive will keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without sufficient exercise, they may become bored or restless, leading to unwanted behaviors such as chewing or barking.

The Bedlington Terrier requires a balanced diet tailored to their size and activity level. They typically need 400 to 600 calories per day, depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A high-quality dog food that includes sufficient protein for muscle maintenance and healthy fats for coat health is ideal.

Owners should be mindful of portion control, as Bedlingtons can be prone to weight gain if overfed or under-exercised. Due to their genetic predisposition to copper toxicosis, a condition where the liver stores excess copper, it is important to monitor their diet carefully. Regular veterinary check-ups and possibly a low-copper diet may be recommended if they are diagnosed with this condition.



Ideal Living Environment

Bedlington Terriers are adaptable and can thrive in both apartments and houses with yards, provided they get enough daily exercise. Their size makes them suitable for smaller living spaces, but they do need access to outdoor areas where they can run and play. They enjoy both indoor relaxation and outdoor exploration, making them versatile companions for various living environments.

Bedlington Terriers handle moderate climates well but may need extra care in extreme temperatures. Their woolly coat provides some protection in colder weather, but they may need a sweater or coat for long outings in the cold. In warmer climates, their coat may trap heat, so owners should ensure they have access to shade and water, and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day.

Bedlington Terriers can get along well with other dogs, especially if raised with them. However, due to their strong prey drive, they may not be reliable around smaller pets like cats, rabbits, or rodents unless properly socialized from a young age.

With proper socialization and training, Bedlingtons can coexist peacefully with other animals, but supervision is advised when introducing them to smaller pets.



Life Stages

Bedlington Terrier puppies are active and curious, requiring early socialization and training to prevent any behavioral issues. During this stage, it’s important to introduce them to different people, places, and experiences to build their confidence. Basic obedience training should begin early, as Bedlingtons can be independent and may test boundaries.

Puppies should be encouraged to exercise and explore, but care must be taken not to over-exercise them, as their developing bones and joints are still fragile.

In adulthood (typically between 1.5 to 7 years), Bedlingtons reach their full physical and mental maturity. They require consistent daily exercise to maintain their energy levels and mental health. Their coat care becomes more demanding during this stage, requiring regular grooming and trimming to maintain its texture and appearance.

Their calm demeanor indoors and active playfulness outdoors make them excellent companions for individuals and families alike.

As Bedlingtons age (around 8 years and older), their energy levels may decrease, but they still need moderate exercise to keep their joints healthy and prevent obesity. A senior-specific diet, possibly with joint supplements, can help maintain their health.

Regular vet check-ups become increasingly important in their senior years, particularly for monitoring their liver health, given their predisposition to copper toxicosis.



Health

The Bedlington Terrier is generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 11 to 16 years, but they are prone to some specific health concerns:

  • Copper Toxicosis: A hereditary condition where the liver stores excess copper, potentially leading to liver failure. Regular veterinary monitoring and possibly a low-copper diet can help manage this condition.
  • Retinal Dysplasia: A genetic eye disorder that can affect vision, though not typically progressive.
  • Patellar Luxation: A condition in which the kneecap slips out of place, common in smaller breeds.

Owners should monitor their Bedlington for:

Lethargy or jaundice (early signs of liver issues related to copper toxicosis).
Lameness or difficulty walking (potential signs of patellar luxation).
Vision problems or night blindness (indicating retinal issues).

Routine veterinary check-ups, including liver function tests for copper toxicosis and eye exams for retinal issues, are important for maintaining a Bedlington’s health. Regular ear cleaning, dental care, and joint supplements can also help prevent common health problems.

Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise will support their overall well-being and longevity.

Bedlington Terrier with a distinctive groomed coat and unique shape standing outdoors.

Bringing home a Bedlington Terrier puppy is like welcoming a little bundle of curiosity, energy, and elegance into your life. While they may look refined, Bedlington puppies are full of personality and have a mischievous streak. Here’s how to prepare for your new pint-sized explorer:

  • Secure fencing: Bedlington Terriers were bred for speed and love to chase anything that moves. A secure yard with high fencing is essential to keep your puppy safe, as their instinct to run after small animals can be hard to control — especially during their curious puppy phase.
  • Exercise and mental stimulation: Bedlingtons are intelligent and need plenty of mental and physical exercise to stay happy. Engage your puppy with puzzle toys, interactive games, and regular play sessions to prevent boredom. Without enough stimulation, these clever pups will find their own “entertainment” — and it might involve your furniture!
  • Grooming essentials: One of the most distinctive features of the Bedlington Terrier is its curly, wool-like coat. While they don’t shed much, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Introduce your puppy to brushing and grooming routines early to ensure they get used to the process.
  • Training with patience: Bedlington Terriers are independent, like most terriers, but they’re also eager to please. Positive reinforcement training works best, and early socialization is crucial to help them develop into well-mannered adults. Start training early, especially focusing on recall, as their prey drive can sometimes override their obedience.

Despite their fluffy appearance, Bedlington Terriers are athletic dogs that thrive on activities that challenge both their bodies and their minds. Here are a few activities where they excel:

  • Agility: Bedlingtons are quick, agile, and love a challenge. Agility courses are a fantastic way to keep them physically active while also engaging their sharp minds. They’re particularly good at navigating tight corners and fast jumps.
  • Racing: Historically, Bedlingtons were often used in racing events, and that love of speed still runs deep in the breed. If you have the space, Bedlingtons love to sprint, and they’re often faster than they appear!
  • Scent work: Although they may not be used for hunting as often these days, Bedlingtons still have a keen sense of smell. Scent work games can keep their noses and brains busy, helping to satisfy their natural hunting instincts.
  • Lure coursing: Given their strong prey drive, Bedlingtons excel at lure coursing, where they get to chase a moving object (usually a lure that mimics prey). It’s a great way to let them burn off energy in a fun, controlled environment.

Though not as commonly found in rescues as some other breeds, Bedlington Terriers do occasionally end up in need of new homes. Sometimes, owners may underestimate the breed’s energy levels or grooming needs, leading to rehoming. If you’re considering adoption, know that these dogs thrive in environments where they get plenty of exercise and attention.

There are several Bedlington-specific rescue organizations that work to find homes for these beautiful, intelligent dogs. Adopting a Bedlington is a great way to give a second chance to a dog in need, and with the right environment, they’ll quickly become an integral part of the family.

Fun Facts about Bedlington Terriers

  • Lamb-like looks: The Bedlington Terrier is often compared to a lamb because of its soft, curly coat and distinctive head shape. But don’t be fooled — these dogs have the heart of a hunter.

  • Fast runners: Despite their elegant appearance, Bedlington Terriers are incredibly fast and can outrun many other breeds. They were once used in dog racing, where they earned a reputation for their speed.

  • Hypoallergenic: Thanks to their unique coat, Bedlingtons are often considered a good choice for people with allergies. They shed very little, and their curly fur traps dander, reducing allergens in the home.

Common Myths about Bedlington Terriers

Myth 1: Bedlington Terriers are fragile because of their appearance.
Not true. Despite their delicate appearance, Bedlingtons are tough, athletic dogs with a long history of hunting and racing. They’re far more robust than they look and can handle plenty of physical activity.

Myth 2: Bedlington Terriers are high-maintenance due to their grooming needs.
While their coats do require regular grooming to prevent matting, Bedlingtons are relatively low-maintenance in other areas. They don’t shed much, and as long as they’re brushed regularly and trimmed every few months, they’re easy to care for.

Conclusion

The Bedlington Terrier is a breed that perfectly balances elegance and energy. Whether they’re competing in agility, sprinting through the park, or snuggling on the couch, these dogs are full of life, love, and a little bit of mischief. Their distinctive appearance might turn heads, but it’s their intelligence, loyalty, and playful nature that will win your heart.

Having seen Bedlington Terriers in action, I can confirm that they’re far more than just a pretty face. If you’re ready for a dog that’s as fast as it is fluffy, the Bedlington Terrier just might be the perfect fit.

Infographic showing Bedlington Terrier’s energy, grooming needs, and temperament
Infographic summarizing Bedlington Terrier’s traits: energy, unique coat, and trainability

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