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Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier Care Guide: Temperament, Grooming & Health Considerations

The Bedlington Terrier is a graceful, spirited terrier with a hallmark ‘lamb-like’ look and a surprisingly athletic core. Known for minimal shedding and a hypoallergenic reputation, they suit owners who enjoy regular professional grooming and brisk daily exercise.

Breed Group
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Medium
Coat Type
Single
Coat Texture
Curly
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
Moderate
Shedding Level
Low
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Breed Type
Purebred

Breed History of the Bedlington Terrier

Emerging in 18th–19th century England (Northumberland), Bedlingtons worked as versatile vermin hunters and companions. Their unique coat and elegant outline set them apart among terriers, while retaining classic terrier tenacity.

Bedlington Terrier Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

Athletic and well-balanced with hallmark breed features.

  • Weight: 17–23 lb (8–10.5 kg)
  • Height: 15–17.5 in (38–44 cm)
  • Coat type: Unique mix of hard and soft hair forming a crisp, linty texture; minimal shedding
  • Coat colors: Blue, liver, sandy; may lighten with age
  • Distinctive traits: Lamb-like outline, arched loin, pear-shaped head

How to Groom a Bedlington Terrier: Coat Care & Maintenance

Specialized coat requires scissoring and clipping to maintain the classic silhouette and texture.

  • Brushing: 2–3×/week to prevent felting.
  • Professional grooming: Every 4–6 weeks; breed-specific trim pattern.
  • Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks; fully dry to preserve texture.
  • Nails/Teeth: Nails every 2–3 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week.

Bedlington Terrier Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

Moderate energy with playful bursts.

  • Daily duration: 45–60 minutes.
  • Activities: Walks, lure coursing fun runs, fetch, scent games.
  • Off-leash: Use secure areas; prey drive may trigger chasing.

Training a Bedlington Terrier: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Bright and independent—keep sessions positive and varied.

  • Approach: Reward-based; avoid repetitive drills.
  • Focus areas: Recall around distractions, polite leash manners.
  • Socialization: Early exposure to dogs/people to minimize pushy terrier tendencies.

Bedlington Terrier Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Maintain lean condition; Bedlingtons can pack on weight if overfed.

  • Food type: High-quality complete diet.
  • Quantity: ~1–2 cups/day split into 2 meals—adjust to activity and body condition.

Bedlington Terrier Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Key genetic concern separates this breed: copper storage disease.

  • Metabolic: Copper toxicosis (COMMD1 gene); ask for DNA testing status.
  • Orthopedic: Patellar luxation.
  • Eyes: Cataracts and other issues—request CAER results.
  • Life expectancy: 12–14 years.

Where to Adopt or Find Bedlington Terrier Puppies in Canada

Select breeders who DNA-test for copper toxicosis and perform comprehensive health screenings.

  • Breeders: CKC/AKC referrals; COMMD1 DNA status, patellas, CAER eyes.
  • Rescue: Bedlington Terrier breed rescues and all-breed networks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Bedlington Terrier

Are Bedlington Terriers hypoallergenic?
Often better for allergy sufferers due to minimal shedding, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

How hard is the grooming?
Expect professional trimming every 4–6 weeks plus regular home brushing.

Are they good apartment dogs?
Yes—regular exercise and mental stimulation required.

What health testing is essential?
COMMD1 DNA status for copper toxicosis, patellas, and CAER eyes.

Do they have a strong prey drive?
Yes—use secure areas off-leash and reinforce recall.

Dog Name Generator – Find the Perfect Name for Your puppy!

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Other Terrier Dogs

Bull Terrier
Boston Terrier
Border Terrier
Biewer Terrier
Black Russian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Australian Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Hairless Terrier
Kerry Blue Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier

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