Bedlington Terrier
- SIZE: 3
- GROOMING:: 6
- EXERCISE NEEDS: 4
- GOOD WITH DOGS: 3
- WATCHDOG: 6
- BREED: Bedlington Terrier
- COLOR(S):Sandy, blue, and liver, with tan markings. Pups are born darker, and lighten later in life.
DESCRIPTION
Bedlington Terriers have the longest traceable lineage of all the terriers. Like other terriers, they are full of fun and lovable but can be fierce if provoked. They make loyal companions who are able to adapt to any mood of their owners. This breed is rather quiet and usually adores children, making them perfectly suitable for family life. These affectionate dogs come in colors of blue and liver with blue being the more popular of the two. Bedlington Terriers have a very distinct look that causes them to resemble a shorn lamb more than a dog when in full show trim. Their thick fur sticks out from their body and they have a nice tuck up with prominent topknot of hair on their heads. Their ears wield tassels of fur on the ends and they have whip-like tails.
TEMPERAMENT
If provoked by other dogs, Bedlington Terriers can be belligerent. Otherwise, these Terrirers are usually mild and affectionate. They are friendly and able to recognize moods of their owners. When they are alert, these independent dogs will be full of energy. Bedlingtons make excellent house dogs due to their mostly quiet nature.
GROOMING
To upkeep the peculiar lamblike appearance of the Bedlington, regular trimming by a professional groomer is required every four to six weeks. Their coat should be brushed regularly and the insides of their ears should be cleaned and plucked. They are ideal for people suffering from allergies as they are a non-shedding breed.
HEALTH
Bedlington Terriers can suffer from hereditary kidney diseases, liver problems and eye problems such as retinal dysplasia. They may also be afflicted with juvenile cataracts, renal hypoplasia and copper toxicosis.
EXERCISE
This breed does best with plenty of regular exercise. Make sure to keep Bedlingtons on a leash – they are fast runners who will give chase to a cat when given the opportunity.
TRAINING
Bedlingtons are relatively easy to train but can be stubborn at times.