Origin

During the 18th century the bedlington terrier originated in England. They were generally used by the gypsies as a vermin hunter. Bedlington terriers are referred to as a hunter dog and they are called the dog with a heart of lion and heart of lamb because of their strange appearance. Their original name is Rothbury terrier named after the place rothbury in the border of England. In 1820 this dog was bred with a bedlington and this gave rise to the bedlington terrier.

General Description

The bedlington terrier totally looks as a lamb. Their head is like a pear and their back is arch shaped. They have a curly coat which looks exactly same as a lamb. Their head is totally sloping and they have deep set eyes. Bedlington terriers have a pointed tail and straight limbs. Their double coat is a mixture of harsh and smooth hair. It comes in various colours like blue, liver, sand colours etc. According to me this breed looks horrible.

Character

The bedlington terrier is a balanced breed and are very much mild and gentle in nature. They are not at all shy or nervous. Their appearance is such that you may think that they are too shy but it is not so. This breed is very energetic, brave and can bear hardships. It is a confident breed. It’s appearance is thin but in spite of that it is muscular. The bedlington terriers are very sporty and also intelligent at the same time. they make good companions. They are affectionate, playful and very cheerful. The bedlington terrier is very friendly to children and have good approach towards all strangers. They are very loyal but dominating at the same time. these dogs are great diggers and love to chase other objects. Socialization classes are very much required for them.

Temperament

Bedlington terriers are gentle, cheerful, playful and lively in nature. They are good to children and strangers. they can make very good companions. This breed is very much devoted and loyal to their families. They do not tolerate dominating and threatening attitude of any one and get really serious and ferocious if they are challenged. It has a gentle appearance but it should be kept in mind that this is a terrier breed. They have a tendency of chasing other pets. They are extremely good watchdogs and protective of their families.

Training

The bedlington terrier is independent and a bit dominating in nature so they are quiet difficult to train. Training these dogs is really a mess as they have a destructive habit and sometimes bark very loud. They do not response to harsh training methods. Training should be carried out with a firm and loving touch and with consistency.

Health

This breed may be affected by Copper Storage Disease which is a type of liver problem. They may be affected by kidney problems, eye problems, cataracts etc. Their average life span is more than 17 years and litter rate is 3-6.