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History
The Bedlington Terrier was originally named the Rothbury Terrier, after the district of Rothbury on the English Border. Gypsy nailmakers in Rothbury prized the breed as a hunter of various game, including badger. In about 1825, a Rothbury dog was mated to a Bedlington bitch, resulting in the Bedlington Terrier. Whippet was probably introduced along the way to make the breed faster and more sporting. Other sources mention the Dandie Dinmont Terrier as a possible contributor to the breed. The Bedlington was used as a vermin hunter by the miners of Bedlington, who also exploited his gameness as a fighting dog in the pits. Hunters also used them as retrievers. The Bedlington was first exhibited as a separate breed in 1877.
Description
With his pear-shaped head, arched back and curly coat, the Bedlington Terrier looks like a little lamb. The head has no stop, descending in an unbroken line from crown to nose. The thick double coat is a mixture of soft and harsher hairs, and comes in blue, sandy or liver. The dog may have tan markings over the eyes and on the legs, chest and rear. The Bedlington has a unique springy gait, particularly when moving slowly.
Talents
Watchdog.
Personality
Headstrong, lively and aggressive, particularly with other dogs. A little powerhouse. Courageous and energetic, with the ability to run very fast. A good fighter despite his gentle appearance. Careful breeding has resulted in a more companionable and affectionate personality in today's Bedlingtons.
Behavior
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Fairly friendly with strangers.
Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
Independence: Needs people a lot.
Dominance: Low.
Other Pets: Not generally trustworthy with other pets.
Noise: Likes to bark.
Notes
Some bloodlines are prone to cataracts, detached retina, and PRA. Buy only from stock that has been liver-diagnosed for copper toxicosis, an inherited liver disease. May also be prone to kidney and thyroid problems. Can be difficult to housebreak. Trainable with patience. Barks a lot. Can be willful and high-strung. The coat requires regular clipping. Between professional groomings, the coat needs daily brushing. Only let this dog off lead in an enclosed area. Like a Whippet, he is fast and loves to chase! Needs supervision with other pets. Can be snappish if provoked. Likes to dig.
Grooming
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: Professional trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Curly coat.
Shedding: Very light.
Exercise: Moderate exercise needed.
Jogging: Small, but a pretty good jogging companion.
Indoors: Fairly active indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: Does all right without a yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Good for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
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