Bedlington Terrier

Origins and History

The Bedlington Terrier originated in the Northumberland town of Bedlington, England, in the early 19th century. Bred by the Colling brothers to hunt vermin and small game, the breed combines the smooth coat of the Old English Terrier, the wire coat of the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and the soft, curly coat of the Whippet (or a now‑extinct “Maltese” type). By the 1860s the Bedlington was being exhibited in the first dog shows, and the breed was officially recognised by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1875 and by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

General Characteristics

• Compact, lamb‑like appearance with a narrow head, long silky coat and a high set tail.
• Alert, lively, and affectionate; known for being sensitive and eager to please but can be independent.
• Originally developed as a vermin hunter and later as a companion; today excels in agility, obedience and earth‑dog work.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 17.5–18.5 inches (44–47 cm); Females 16.5–17.5 inches (42–44 cm).
• Weight: Proportionate to height, generally not exceeding 17 pounds (7.7 kg); most adults weigh 12–17 pounds (5.4–7.7 kg).

Coat and Color

• Coat: Soft, wavy to curly, feathered on the ears, legs and tail; hand‑stripped for show to retain texture.
• Accepted colors: Solid blue, liver (deep brown) or sandy (pale tan) base with white markings. White must appear on the muzzle, chest, legs, and a blaze on the face. No black, tan, or other colors are permitted.

Temperament Considerations

Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and eager to work, yet they are also highly sensitive to tone. Harsh corrections can cause fear or stubbornness. Early, positive‑reinforcement training that rewards desired behaviours is most effective.

Training Essentials

• Socialisation: Begin at 8 weeks with controlled exposure to people, children, other dogs and varied environments.
• Exercise: Minimum 30‑45 minutes of active play or brisk walks daily; they also thrive on agility and scent work.
• Common challenges: Tendency toward independence, occasional digger instinct, and a strong prey drive that may distract them during recall.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing: Use a soft slicker brush or curry comb 2‑3 times per week to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
• Bathing: As needed, typically every 4‑6 weeks; use a mild dog shampoo to preserve coat texture.
• Nail and dental care: Trim nails weekly or when they click on hard surfaces; brush teeth several times a week and provide dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Begin hand‑stripping 2‑3 weeks before the show, trim the head to the “lion” cut, shave the muzzle, and clip ear edges to a neat line.
• Ring presentation tips: Keep the coat clean and free of debris, ensure the tail is carried high and the gait is light and springy, and use a well‑fitted show lead to highlight the breed’s elegant movement.

Common Health Issues

• Copper toxicosis (Bedlington-specific hepatic disorder) – DNA test for COMMD1 mutation is recommended.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – annual ophthalmologic exam.
• Hereditary cataracts – eye screening.
• Patellar luxation – orthopedic evaluation.
• Hip dysplasia – radiographic screening (OFA or PennHIP) for breeding stock.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Minimum 30‑45 minutes of vigorous activity daily; mental stimulation is equally important.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality protein‑rich diet appropriate for a small‑to‑medium active breed; monitor calorie intake to maintain ideal weight.
• Lifespan considerations: Average lifespan 12‑14 years; regular veterinary check‑ups and health‑screening tests help maximise longevity.