The Bedlington Terrier dog

The Bedlington Terrier dog originates from Great Britain dating back to the 1800's. Breed historians credit the beginnings of the breed to Joseph Ainsley of the town of Bedlington. In 1825, he bred two Rothbury Terriers and called the offspring Bedlington Terriers. At some point it may have been interbred with the Whippet to enhance sporting ability, ease of gait and speed. Although not known with certainty, it is also believed to be related to the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Otterhound.

The Bedlington Terrier dog is one of the more unique looking dogs. At first glance it looks more like a lamb than a dog. The skull is narrow with a long tapered jaw. It has a white silky top knot and small deep set eyes. The ears hang low and are triangular in shape with rounded tips and a silky tassel at the end. When properly groomed it is can be quite attractive.

But don't let looks deceive you. This little canine is in the Terrier group for good reason; it full of energy and spirit! Its ancestors were even more spirited than today's milder version. In the past its main chore was to dispatch vermin including rats, badger, fox and rabbit. And it was very good at its role. Today, it has been bred to produce a milder temperament, since it is used almost exclusively as a companion. However some hunting instincts do remain. These qualities can be seen in its watchdog ability and in its temptation to chase smaller outdoor animals. Proper obedience training is essential to ensure acceptable behavior.

True to it's terrier nature it is not easily intimated by other dogs. It can be a scrappy fighter when cornered.

The Bedlington Terrier Dog at a Glance

Origin Great Britain - 1800's.

Original Use Vermin hunter (rat, badger, fox, even rabbit)

Use Today Companion

Temperament It is even tempered, mild, and amiable companion that is quiet and pleasant indoors. It makes a good and loyal companion. It should receive regular physical and mental exercise. Behavior problems can arise if its exercise needs are not met.

Acceptance of: Other Dogs - Average

Other Pets - Average to below average

Strangers - Good
Children - Good

Watchdog Ability Excellent

Guard dog Ability Below Average

Ease of Training Average

Living Conditions It does well in most climates, but it is not suitable for outdoor living. It adapts well to apartment living.

Exercise The Bedlington Terrier dog requires daily exercise such as a moderate walk or vigorous play time. It also benefits from mental stimulation such as finding hidden objects or following commands during play time.

Coat It has a thick dense coat two layered coat. The hair stands off the skin and tends to be somewhat curly.

Grooming In order to keep its coat in top shape, it should be brushed once or twice a week.

Colors The Bedlington Terrier comes in liver, blue, and sandy colors; it may have some tan. Pups are usually born darker and lighten in color during the first year.

Height and Weight Weight range is 17 to 23 pounds (7.8 to 10.5 kg), height range is 15 to 17 inches (38 to 43.2 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.

Life Expectancy Life expectancy for the average healthy Bedlington Terrier is 13 to 15 years.

Group The AKC places the Bedlington Terrier dog in the Terrier group.

The Bedlington Terrier dog makes an excellent watch dog. I noticed the one shown below while walking down an alley in my son's neighborhood. As long as I walked by everything was fine. As soon as I slowed down and took too long to pass, my presence was announced with lots of barking!

Thankyou to owners Larry and Dana Backus of Wainwright Alberta, Canada for allowing me to take and publish these pictures.

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