Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a unique breed that looks like a lamb but has the heart of a lion. Despite their gentle, graceful appearance, they are athletic, energetic dogs with typical terrier tenacity. They make affectionate, loyal companions and are one of the few terrier breeds considered hypoallergenic due to their non-shedding coat.
Key Stats
Weight
17-23 lbs
Height
15-17"
Lifespan
11-16 yrs
Energy
3/5
Is This Breed Right For You?
Origin & History
Developed in the mining town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England, in the early 1800s. Originally bred for hunting vermin and racing, they were prized by miners and gypsies. Their unique appearance may have been developed to make them less threatening-looking for dog fighting purposes, though they were primarily working dogs.
Traits & Characteristics
Individual dogs may vary from breed-typical traits
Family & Social
Personality
Physical Traits
Adaptability
Health & Wellness
Key health information for Bedlington Terrier owners
Health Screening
- Hip & Elbow Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Eye Certification
Exercise Needs
- 45+ minutes daily
- Mental stimulation important
- Moderate activity
Watch For
- Luxating Patella
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Copper Toxicosis
Care Guide
Everything you need to know about caring for a Bedlington Terrier
Grooming
2x weekly
Exercise
45+ min/day
Training
Very Easy
Health
Generally Good
Training Your Bedlington Terrier
Training Approach
Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Be consistent and patient. Keep training sessions engaging to hold their attention.
Training Tips
- Start training and socialization early
- Use positive reinforcement methods
- Keep sessions short and interesting
- Be consistent with rules
- Channel their energy into constructive activities
Common Challenges
- Can be stubborn like many terriers
- May challenge other dogs if not socialized
- Need mental stimulation to prevent boredom
- Retain some terrier tenacity
Is a Bedlington Terrier Right For You?
Great Match If...
- You have children or a family
- You want an easy-to-train dog
- You're active and outdoorsy
- You want a loyal companion
Think Twice If...
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Bedlington Terriers are considered hypoallergenic. Their unique coat doesn't shed like most dogs - instead, it grows continuously like human hair and needs regular trimming. This means they produce less dander and loose hair, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, and individual reactions vary.