Bedlington Terrier

History of the Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a uniquely-looking dog breed with a history dating back to 18th-century England, where they were originally bred in the mines of Northumberland. Their primary task was pest control, such as catching rats and mice. Later, they became popular as companion dogs due to their elegant appearance and charming character. The name "Bedlington" refers to the village where the breed originated.

Character and Temperament

The Bedlington Terrier is an intelligent, affectionate, and energetic dog. They are known for their loyal and friendly nature, making them excellent family dogs. Despite their soft appearance, they are alert and courageous, traits inherited from their working terrier heritage. This breed is good with children and usually gets along well with other pets, provided they are properly socialized.

Physical Characteristics

The Bedlington Terrier has a unique, lamb-like appearance, with a slender, muscular body and a characteristic curly coat. Their coat can be blue, liver, or sandy, sometimes with lighter shades. An adult Bedlington has a shoulder height of approximately 38-44 cm and weighs an average of 8-10 kg.

Collar/harness sizes:

Neck circumference: 30-40 cm
Chest circumference: 45-55 cm

Care

The Bedlington Terrier has a unique, woolly coat that requires regular maintenance. Weekly brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks are necessary to keep the coat in good condition. This breed sheds little, making them suitable for people with allergies. Regularly check their ears, teeth, and nails to ensure their health.

Movement and Activity

Although the Bedlington Terrier is calm indoors, they need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Long walks, playful activities, and mental stimulation, such as puzzles, are ideal for this breed. They have a strong prey drive, so ensure a safe, fenced area when letting them off-leash.

Health

The Bedlington Terrier is generally a healthy breed, but can be susceptible to genetic conditions such as copper storage disease and patellar luxation. Regular health checks and a balanced diet help to ensure their well-being. The average lifespan of this breed is 12-16 years.

Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins and nutrients is essential for the Bedlington Terrier. They need an average of 150-250 grams of dog food per day, depending on their age, size, and activity level. Ensure they always have access to fresh water.

Training and Socialization

The Bedlington Terrier is intelligent and learns quickly, but can sometimes be stubborn. Early socialization and consistent training using positive reinforcement are important to encourage desired behavior. They enjoy challenges and excel in obedience and canine sports.

Suitability for Owners

The Bedlington Terrier is a wonderful choice for families, individuals, and seniors seeking an energetic, loving companion. They adapt well to various living situations, provided they receive sufficient exercise and attention. This breed thrives in an environment where they are considered part of the family.

Share your Bedlington Terrier!

Do you own a Bedlington Terrier? We're curious to hear about your experiences and stories! Send a photo of your Bedlington Terrier to klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to participate in a video for FidelloTV and earn €20 in shopping credit? Make an appointment via klantenservice@fidello.nl and help us share more about this special breed on YouTube!