Bedlington Terrier, Breed, Price, Compatibility with Family (Oct 2023): The Bedlington Terrier is a small breed of terrier that originated in the mining town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England.
It is known for its distinctive appearance, which is often described as resembling that of a lamb or a little lamb-like dog. Here are some key characteristics and information about the Bedlington:
Bedlington Terrier Breed Info:
The Bedlington Terrier is a unique and charming breed known for its distinctive appearance and friendly personality.
| Quality | Level |
|---|---|
| AFFECTIONATE WITH FAMILY | Moderate |
| GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN | Moderate |
| GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS | Moderate |
| SHEDDING LEVEL | Low |
| COAT GROOMING FREQUENCY | 2 to 3 times in a week |
| FRIENDLY TOWARD STRANGERS | Moderate |
| WATCHDOG/PROTECTIVE NATURE | Moderate to High |
| ADAPTABILITY LEVEL | Moderate |
| TRAINABILITY LEVEL | Moderate |
| BARKING LEVEL | Moderate |
They make good companions for families and individuals who can provide them with the attention, exercise, and grooming they require.
These are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They can be good family pets –
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Physical Appearance:
Bedlington have a unique and elegant appearance. They typically have a curly or wavy coat that is non-shedding. Their head is narrow and wedge-shaped, and they have a distinctive topknot of hair on their skull.
The Bedlington has a distinctive and unique physical appearance that sets it apart from other dog breeds. Here are some key features of their physical appearance:
Coat:
Bedlington have a dense, curly, or wavy coat that is soft to the touch. Their coat can come in various colors, including blue, liver, and sandy. The coat is often referred to as “linty” in texture.
Topknot:
One of the most notable features of a Bedlington Terrier is the top knot of hair on its skull. This tuft of hair stands out and gives the dog a somewhat lamb-like or terrier-like appearance.
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Head:
The breed has a narrow and wedge-shaped head, which is distinct from many other terrier breeds. Their skull is flat, and they have a pronounced stop (the point where the forehead meets the muzzle).
Eyes:
Bedlington Terriers have small, almond-shaped eyes that are dark in color. They have an alert and intelligent expression.
Ears:
Their ears are also distinctive, being long and set low on the sides of the head. The ears are often folded forward, covering the ear canal.
Body:
They have slender and graceful body with a deep chest and a straight back. Their legs are straight and muscular.
Tail:
The tail is set low and tapers to a point. It is carried low and is not docked.
Size:
Bedlington are small dogs, with males typically standing about 16.5 inches (42 cm) tall at the shoulder and females slightly smaller.
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Temperament and Personality:
Bedlington are known for their distinctive appearance and unique temperament. They are a small breed of terrier that originated in England, and they are often described as having a mix of charming and tenacious qualities.
Here’s an overview of the typical temperament and personality traits of Bedlington Terriers:
Gentle and Affectionate:
Bedlington Terriers are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being close to them. They often seek attention and love to be cuddled and petted.
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Playful and Energetic:
Despite their relatively small size, Bedlington are quite energetic and enjoy playtime. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Interactive toys and games of fetch or tug-of-war are often appreciated.
Alert and Watchful:
Bedlington have a keen sense of alertness and can make excellent watchdogs. They are quick to bark when they sense something unusual or unfamiliar, making them good at alerting their owners to potential intruders or disturbances.
Independent Thinkers:
They are known for their intelligence, but they can also be independent thinkers. This means they may not always be the most obedient dogs and might test their owners’ patience during training. Consistency and positive reinforcement methods work best when training a Bedlington Terrier.
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Curious and Inquisitive:
These terriers have a natural curiosity about their surroundings and tend to explore. They may dig in the yard or investigate interesting scents, so it’s essential to provide them with a safe and secure environment.
Reserved with Strangers:
While Bedlington are affectionate with their families, they can be somewhat reserved or cautious around strangers. Early socialization can help them become more comfortable and friendly with unfamiliar people and animals.
Low Shedding and Hypoallergenic:
Bedlington Terriers have a distinctive, curly, and non-shedding coat, which makes them a popular choice for individuals with allergies. However, their coat does require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Good with Children and Other Pets:
Bedlington can be good family dogs when properly socialized. They usually get along well with children and can coexist with other pets, including dogs and cats, as long as they are introduced and socialized from a young age.
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Terrier Tenacity:
Despite their charming and affectionate demeanor, Bedlington Terriers still possess some terrier traits, such as determination and a strong prey drive. They may have a tendency to chase small animals, so it’s important to supervise them in outdoor settings.
Bedlington Terrier puppy Training and Care
Training and caring for a Bedlington Terrier puppy requires patience, consistency, and a well-structured approach. Here are some essential tips for raising and training your Bedlington Terrier puppy:
Socialization:
Start socializing your Bedlington Terrier puppy early. Expose them to a variety of people, other dogs, and different environments to help them become well-adjusted and confident adults. Puppy socialization classes can be beneficial for this purpose.
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Basic Obedience Training:
Begin basic obedience training as soon as you bring your puppy home. Teach commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “down,” “come,” and “leave it.” Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work well with Bedlington.
Crate Training:
Crate training is essential for housebreaking and providing a safe space for your puppy. Make the crate comfortable and use it as a positive place by giving treats and toys when your puppy goes inside. Be patient and avoid using the crate as a punishment.
Housebreaking:
Be consistent with housebreaking your Bedlington Terrier puppy. Take them outside regularly, especially after meals and naps.
Praise and reward them when they eliminate outside. Be prepared for accidents and clean them up without scolding your puppy.
Exercise:
Bedlington Terrier puppies have lots of energy and need regular exercise. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys can help burn off their energy and keep them mentally stimulated.
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Grooming:
Bedlington have a unique coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their distinctive look. Brush their coat at least a few times a week and consider professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Dental Care:
Start dental care early by introducing your puppy to tooth brushing and providing dental chews or toys to promote good oral health.
Positive Reinforcement:
Use positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and toys to reward good behavior. Bedlington Terriers respond well to positive reinforcement and will be more eager to learn.
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Social Interaction:
Bedlington are affectionate dogs that enjoy spending time with their families. Provide them with plenty of social interaction and playtime to keep them happy and engaged.
Health Care:
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care. Discuss a vaccination and health plan with your veterinarian to ensure your puppy stays healthy.
Training Classes:
Consider enrolling your Bedlington Terrier puppy in puppy obedience classes or working with a professional dog trainer to address any behavioral issues and refine their training.
Be Patient:
Bedlington Terriers can be independent thinkers, so patience is key during training. Avoid harsh training methods, as these can lead to fear or aggression in the breed.
Bedlington Terrier Price
The average price of a Bedlington Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder is between $1,800 and $2,300. This price can vary depending on the breeder’s location, the puppy’s lineage, and the demand for the breed at the time.
There are a few things to keep in mind when budgeting for a Bedlington Terrier puppy:
- The cost of the puppy itself. This is the largest upfront expense, but it’s important to remember that it’s an investment in your future companion.
- Veterinary care. Puppies need regular vaccinations, checkups, and deworming treatments. You’ll also need to budget for the cost of spaying or neutering your puppy.
- Food and supplies. Puppies eat a lot, and you’ll need to purchase all the essential supplies, such as a bed, bowls, a leash, and collar.
- Training. Bedlington Terriers are intelligent dogs, but they can also be stubborn. Enrolling your puppy in obedience classes can help you get started on the right foot.
In addition to the upfront costs, there are also ongoing expenses associated with owning a Bedlington Terrier. These include the cost of food, grooming, veterinary care, and pet insurance.
Bedlington Terrier adoption
Here are some resources for Bedlington Terrier adoption:
- Bedlington Terrier Rescue Foundation: This organization rescues and rehomes Bedlington Terriers in need. They have a nationwide network of foster homes and adoptable dogs.
- Bedlington Terrier Rescue of America: This organization also rescues and rehomes Bedlington Terriers in need. They have a website where you can search for adoptable dogs in your area.
- Petfinder: This website is a great resource for finding adoptable dogs from all over the country. You can search for Bedlington Terriers by breed, location, and other criteria.
- Your local animal shelter or rescue organization: Many local animal shelters and rescue organizations have Bedlington Terriers available for adoption. You can contact your local shelter or rescue organization to see if they have any Bedlington Terriers that are a good match for you.
Is a Bedlington Terrier a good pet?
Yes, Bedlington can make excellent pets for active families and individuals. They are known for being affectionate, gentle, and loyal. They are also relatively low-shedding, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
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Here are some of the pros and cons of owning a Bedlington:
Pros:
- Affectionate and gentle
- Low-shedding
- Intelligent and trainable
- Good with children and other pets
- Energetic and playful
Cons:
- Can be stubborn
- Requires regular grooming
- Can be prone to separation anxiety
Overall, Bedlington Terriers are loving and intelligent dogs that can make great companions. However, it is important to do your research and make sure that this breed is a good fit for your lifestyle and needs.