INTRODUCTION

The Bedlington Terrier dog breed originated as a varmint killer and companion to hunters. Today, Bedlingtons excel as companions and in the show ring. Although they still have excellent hunting instincts, a keen sense of smell and a willingness to go to ground, they are rarely used in the field. Although they are purebred dogs, some may end up in the care of shelters or rescues. Consider adoption if this is the breed for you. Affectionate and playful, the Bedlington enjoys being the center of attention. In fact, they may prefer to be the only pet in the house. Although these dogs are friendly with almost all people, they have a great sense of intuition and make excellent watchdogs for their humans. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers and large homeowners alike, as long as they get plenty of exercise and affection. AniMall24 recommends a good dog bed to give your medium-sized Bedlington Terrier a good night’s sleep. You should also buy a dog water bottle for any outdoor adventures you have with your pup.

HIGHLIGHTS

Bedlingtons can be stubborn at times. Early socialization with other pets is imperative to avoid problems. Bedlington Terriers need exercise and mental stimulation or they will become bored, leading to problems. Males can be fierce fighters if challenged by another dog. Bedlingtons are very intelligent and moderately easy to train. They do not respond to harsh training methods. Bedlingtons need to be groomed once or twice a week to maintain the coat and prevent matting. Bedlingtons can be one-person dogs. Bedlingtons are terriers and like to dig. Bedlingtons need a fenced yard. They chase other animals and are very fast. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to make sure they are free of genetic diseases that can be passed on to puppies and that they have a sound temperament.

HISTORY

The Bedlington Terrier developed in the north of England, but no one knows where it came from. One theory says it traveled with Romans or gypsies, who used it to poach on the estates they passed through. His talent for ridding the land of rats, badgers and other vermin attracted the attention of local squires, who acquired some of the dogs for themselves. One of their noble admirers was Lord Rothbury, whose estate was located in Bedlington, in the county of Northumberland. For a time they were known as Rothbury terriers, but eventually the name Bedlington stuck. The first dog to actually be called a Bedlington Terrier, in 1825, was Ainsley’s Piper, owned by Joseph Ainsley of Bedlington. Piper faced his first badger when he was only 8 months old, and kept showing other dogs how it was done when he was old, toothless and nearly blind. It is speculated that the Whippet was added to the breed at some point to increase the dog’s speed and agility. It also has similarities to the Dandie Dinmont, Soft Coated Wheaten and Kerry Blue Terrier, so it may share common ancestry with them. The popularity of the Bedlington crossed all social boundaries. They were a favorite of factory and mine workers, who used them to rid the premises of rats and then raced them in their off hours, against each other and against Whippets. Bedlingtons joined other dogs at shows in the mid-19th century, and in 1877 the National Bedlington Terrier Club was formed in England. The first Bedlington Terrier registered by the American Kennel Club was Ananias in 1886. Today, the Bedlington is ranked 128th out of 155 breeds and varieties recognized by the AKC.