Introducing the Bedlington Terrier
Discover all there is to know about the Cairn Terrier : its characteristics, behavior, training, and its cost.
The Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier, the lamb-like dog
The origin of the Bedlington Terrier traces back to Bedlington in Northumberland, England. Initially bred for hunting vermin, this breed has evolved into a beloved companion known for its unique lamb-like appearance and spirited personality. Bedlington Terriers are among the most cherished dog breeds worldwide, admired for their bravery, loyalty, and affectionate nature.
These dogs excel in various areas such as hunting, companionship, and agility sports. Their sociability and friendly demeanor make them excellent pets, forming strong bonds with their families and displaying a playful spirit that endears them to everyone they meet.
Whether you're seeking a loyal companion or a versatile dog, the Bedlington Terrier offers a perfect blend of charm, intelligence, and affection.
BEDLINGTON TERRIER FACT FILE
This section outlines the unique features of the Bedlington Terrier breed of dog.
Group
The Bedlington Terrier, part of the terrier group, is known for hunting and vermin control. Valued for their agility and spirited nature, Bedlington Terriers are particularly affectionate and loyal.
Size
The Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized dog. They typically stand between 15 to 18 inches at the withers and weigh between 17 to 23 pounds.
Coat length
Bedlington Terriers have a unique coat that is a mixture of hard and soft hair, giving it a crisp texture. Their fur is curly and requires regular grooming to maintain its distinct appearance.
Coat color
The coat of a Bedlington Terrier can vary in color. Common shades include blue, liver, and sandy, often with darker or lighter variations within these colors.
Living environment
Bedlington Terriers adapt well to various living environments. They are suitable for both urban and rural settings, provided they receive adequate exercise.
Sociability
Bedlington Terriers are friendly and sociable dogs. They are excellent with children and generally get along well with other pets, making them great family companions.
Health
Bedlington Terriers are generally healthy dogs. However, they can be predisposed to certain conditions such as copper toxicosis and joint diseases, so regular vet check-ups are important.
Training
The Bedlington Terrier is an intelligent and eager-to-please breed, making them relatively easy to train. Patience and positive reinforcement are key to successful training, ensuring a well-behaved and happy pet.
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Physical characteristics
The Bedlington Terrier, the lamb-like dog
Bedlington Terriers are medium-sized, well-balanced, and agile dogs. With a curly, lamb-like coat and a distinctive topknot on their heads, they have an elegant yet unique appearance. Their arched back and pear-shaped head with almond-shaped eyes give them a graceful and alert expression.
Size and weight of the Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized breed. Females typically stand between 15 and 16 inches, while males range from 16 to 18 inches in height.
As for weight, female Bedlington Terriers usually weigh between 17 and 22 pounds, and males weigh between 18 and 23 pounds.
Bedlington Terrier puppies grow at a moderate pace. They experience steady growth during their first year and typically reach their full size and weight by the age of 12 to 14 months.
The coat of the Bedlington Terrier
Coat length
The Bedlington Terrier has a unique coat that is a blend of hard and soft hair, creating a crisp texture. Their fur is curly and has a distinctive topknot on the head, which adds to their lamb-like appearance. The coat is medium in length and requires regular grooming to maintain its characteristic look.
Coat color
The Bedlington Terrier's coat comes in a specific color palette. Common colors include blue, liver, and sandy, often with darker or lighter variations within these shades.
Coat care
The Bedlington Terrier's coat, with its medium length and crisp texture, needs diligent care. It has a dense undercoat that helps protect the dog in various weather conditions. This breed does not shed heavily throughout the year but does require consistent grooming.
Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and maintain the coat's texture. Ideally, Bedlington Terriers should be brushed several times a week and professionally groomed every few months. Bathing can be done as needed, typically every few months, to keep their coat clean and healthy. Proper coat care not only keeps them looking their best but also ensures their skin remains in good condition.
Other characteristics of the Bedlington Terrier
Physical features
The Bedlington Terrier is a balanced and well-proportioned dog, known for its unique and elegant appearance. The head is narrow and rounded, giving the breed its distinctive lamb-like look.
The eyes of the Bedlington Terrier are small and almond-shaped, often dark in color, which gives them an alert and intelligent expression.
The ears are moderately large, set low on the head, and have a triangular shape with rounded tips, often covered with a fine fringe of hair.
The body of the Bedlington Terrier is sleek and muscular, with a deep chest and a distinctive arch over the loin. This gives the breed a graceful and athletic silhouette, complemented by a long, tapering tail that adds to their overall balanced and refined appearance.
Temperament and behavior
What is the temperament of the Bedlington Terrier?
Bedlington Terriers are known for their loyalty, affection, and playful nature. They are gentle and friendly, making them excellent companions.
Bedlington Terrier category
There are currently no fewer than 400 breeds of dogs, divided into 10 groups. Each group is made up of breeds with shared features.
The Bedlington Terrier belongs to group 3, which includes terriers. This group comprises various breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier, Bull Terrier, and Scottish Terrier. Dogs in this group are known for their determination, agility, and hunting prowess. They are typically energetic, intelligent, and have a strong instinct for hunting and vermin control.
Bedlington Terriers possess remarkable intelligence, agility, and a gentle, affectionate nature. They are known for their unique ability to combine playfulness with a calm demeanor, making them suitable for both active and relaxed environments. The primary role of this breed historically was hunting vermin, but today they excel as loyal and loving family pets.
Behavior of the Bedlington Terrier
A playful companion
Bedlington Terriers are delightful and lively dogs known for their playful nature and high energy. They are affectionate and enjoy being close to their owners, often displaying their love through gentle nudges and eager participation in family activities. These dogs thrive when they have a present and attentive owner who can provide them with the constant companionship and mental stimulation they need to develop into well-rounded pets.
Sociable and friendly
The Bedlington Terrier is known for its sociability and generous spirit. They are generally friendly with people, including strangers, and enjoy making new friends. Bedlington Terriers are also excellent companions for children, thanks to their playful yet gentle demeanor. However, it is crucial to work on their social skills from a young age to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and confident dogs. Regular socialization with other dogs and people helps them develop into balanced and friendly pets.
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The Bedlington Terrier's living environment
Adaptable and content
The Bedlington Terrier can adapt to various living situations, whether in an apartment, house, urban, or rural setting. They thrive on the love and attention from their owners and enjoy being close companions, following their humans everywhere. To keep them happy and healthy, it is essential to provide at least two walks a day, each lasting around 30 minutes.
Active and curious
While Bedlington Terriers are highly adaptable, they benefit greatly from an outdoor environment where they can explore and satisfy their curiosity. These energetic dogs need space to run and play, helping them to expend their energy and stay mentally stimulated. Access to a garden or regular visits to a park will provide the ideal setting for a Bedlington Terrier to thrive.
Training the Bedlington Terrier
Intelligent and eager learner
The Bedlington Terrier is an intelligent and quick-learning breed, making them relatively easy to train. Their superior intelligence allows them to understand and remember commands effectively. Training should focus on positive reinforcement, using rewards and praise to encourage good behavior. Given their curious nature, it’s wise to equip them with a GPS collar, such as those offered by Weenect, to prevent any potential losses or escapes during outdoor activities.
Attentive and responsive
Bedlington Terriers possess excellent listening skills, making them responsive to training. However, they can be somewhat independent, so consistent training from an early age is crucial. This breed responds well to a mix of structured training sessions and playful learning activities, ensuring they remain engaged and motivated. Regular socialization with other dogs and people is also essential to develop their social skills and ensure a well-rounded temperament.
Health and nutrition
How to take care of the Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is generally a healthy breed. Daily care is essential to maintain their health and prevent diseases and infections. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and consistent exercise are key components of their care routine.
The health of the Bedlington Terrier
Illnesses
Bedlington Terriers are generally robust and healthy dogs. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health conditions. One common issue is copper toxicosis, a genetic disorder that affects the liver. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and jaundice. Additionally, Bedlington Terriers can be susceptible to eye problems such as cataracts and retinal dysplasia. They typically have a lifespan of 12 to 16 years.
Routine care
Regular veterinary care is crucial for the Bedlington Terrier. This includes vaccinations, deworming, and treatments for fleas and ticks as recommended by the vet. Daily care involves brushing their coat to prevent matting, cleaning their ears to avoid infections, maintaining dental hygiene to prevent tartar build-up, and trimming their nails to prevent injuries. It's also important to monitor for any potential allergies and consult with a vet for appropriate dietary recommendations. The Bedlington Terrier is not a hypoallergenic breed, so those with allergies should consider this before choosing this breed.
Feeding the Bedlington Terrier
Daily requirements
Every dog breed has specific nutritional needs, and the Bedlington Terrier is no exception. Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for their vitality and strength. High-quality proteins and vitamins are crucial components of their diet.
We recommend feeding your Bedlington Terrier premium kibble specifically formulated for their size and activity level. This kibble provides a balanced dietary foundation. For additional protein needs, supplement their diet with lean meats like chicken or beef, while limiting fat content. This is especially beneficial for active Bedlington Terriers to maintain muscle mass and overall health.
Feed your Bedlington Terrier at set times and in appropriate portions to prevent overeating and maintain a healthy weight.
Breeding or adoption & costs
What does a Bedlington Terrier cost?
The Bedlington Terrier is a well-regarded breed known for its unique appearance and charming personality. There are several breeders available for this breed, making it relatively accessible. It's important to consider several factors before adopting.
How to choose your Bedlington Terrier
Finding the right breeder
Before adopting a Bedlington Terrier, several important factors should be considered to make an informed decision. Selecting a reputable breeder is crucial. Visiting the breeder's premises allows you to assess the living conditions and behavior of the dogs. Ensuring the health of the puppy and its parents is paramount, and breeders should provide transparent information about any illnesses in the lineage.
Lastly, you must have your dog microchipped by the age of 8 weeks old and have their details registered on a relevant database like Petlog or Animal Tracker. This is a legal requirement in Great Britain and you could face a
fine if you don't comply. Your vet can microchip your dog for a small fee; alternatively, any Blue Cross center will do it for free.
The price of a Bedlington Terrier
The acquisition cost of a Bedlington Terrier can vary based on several factors, including lineage, pedigree, the reputation of the breeder, and the age of the dog. Typically, Bedlington Terrier puppies cost between
and
from a reputable breeder.
In addition to the initial purchase price, there are ongoing costs to consider. Veterinary fees, food, grooming, and other essentials can add up to approximately
to
per year. Proper budgeting is essential to ensure you can provide the necessary care and maintenance for your Bedlington Terrier throughout its life.
Which dog breed is right for you?
Which dog breed is right for you?
Take the test to find out!
Choosing a dog that matches your personality and lifestyle will ensure your well-being and his!