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Terrier group · England

Bedlington Terrier

Also called Rothbury Terrier, Rodbery Terrier.

What makes them remarkable

The lamb-like appearance hides the history of a working terrier from a Northumberland mining town.

  • Loyal
  • Charming
  • Frolicky
  • Courageous
  • Spirited
AI-generated illustration of an adult Bedlington Terrier
AI-generated illustration
Size
Small
Weight
8 to 10 kg17 to 23 lb
Lives
11 to 16 years
Energy
Moderate
Trains
Moderate
Barks
Moderate

Training

Training a Bedlington Terrier

Terrier breeds. Impulse control and a rock-solid leave it. Short, high-value sessions; they bore fast.

  1. Gentle but Consistent

    Start here

    Bedlingtons are sensitive souls who respond poorly to harsh methods. Patient, positive training works best.

  2. Watch for Dog Aggression

    Despite their lamb-like appearance, Bedlingtons can be fierce with other dogs. Socialise extensively.

  3. Keep Sessions Short

    They have a terrier's independent streak. Short, fun training sessions prevent stubbornness.

The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.

Add your Bedlington Terrier and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.

Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.

At home

Living with one

Bred to go to ground after vermin. Fearless, quick, and not built to back down.

Gets on with

  • ChildrenHigh
  • Other dogsLow
  • StrangersModerate
  • CatsLow

Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.

Exercise
45-60 minutes daily. Moderate walks and play. Surprisingly athletic despite their gentle appearance.
Grooming
Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for distinctive styling. Regular brushing to prevent matting.
Drool
Low
Coat
Curly, Crisp, LintyBlue, Liver, Sandy, Blue and Tan, Liver and Tan, Sandy and Tan
In a flat
Can work, with enough exercise outside it.

Health

Things to ask a breeder or vet about

  • Copper Toxicosis

    Severe

    Inherited liver disease causing copper accumulation. DNA test available and essential for breeding

  • Retinal Dysplasia

    Moderate

    Eye condition that can lead to vision problems

  • Patellar Luxation

    Moderate

    Kneecap dislocation requiring potential surgery

Where they come from

History

Developed in the mining town of Bedlington, Northumberland in the 1800s. Originally used by gypsies and poachers for catching rabbits, the breed was also used for dog fighting and vermin hunting. Their unique lamb-like appearance belies their terrier spirit.

  • Ch. Doubletime · The first Bedlington to win Best in Show at Crufts in 1979

Similar breeds

All breeds

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