Bedlington Terrier
Affectionate Apartment-friendly Good-tempered Great with kids High energy dog Intelligent Killing rat, badger, other vermin Sheds a lot Spirited Terrier

Bedlington Terrier

Height 15 - 16 in (38 - 41 cm)
Weight 17 - 23 lbs (8 - 10 kg)
Lifespan 14 - 16 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Bedlington Terrier Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?

Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?

Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Do you want a low-energy dog that suits seniors or calm households?

Breed Characteristics

The majority of sources emphasize that Bedlington Terriers require at least one hour of exercise per day, with some suggesting up to one and a half hours. The consensus is that they are active dogs that need regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

How much exercise does Bedlington Terrier need?

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The consensus from the sources indicates that Bedlington Terriers require regular grooming, including brushing several times a week and professional grooming every few months. The sources also mention the need for trimming, nail care, and regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles.

How much grooming does Bedlington Terrier need?

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Bedlington Terriers are generally responsive to training, but their independent streak and need for positive reinforcement require patience and consistency. The consensus suggests that they are moderately easy to train with the right approach.

Is Bedlington Terrier easy to train?

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Based on the consensus from multiple sources, the Bedlington Terrier is generally considered highly intelligent and trainable, although they may have some independent and stubborn tendencies. Overall, they are described as smart, eager to please, and responsive to training, which aligns with a rating of 4 for intelligence.

How intelligent is Bedlington Terrier?

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The sources provide mixed opinions on the barking behavior of Bedlington Terriers, with some stating they do bark a lot while others mention they are relatively quiet compared to other terrier breeds. The consensus seems to be that they may bark to alert their family or in specific situations, but the frequency of barking can vary depending on the individual dog.

Does Bedlington Terrier bark a lot?

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The sources provide mixed opinions, with some mentioning stubbornness but also highlighting intelligence, eagerness to please, and independence. The consensus leans towards Bedlington Terriers being somewhat stubborn but also smart and trainable with positive methods.

Is Bedlington Terrier stubborn or independent?

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Bedlington Terriers require a minimum of an hour of exercise daily, split into multiple walks. They are high-energy dogs that need mental stimulation to avoid boredom. While they can stay indoors for a few hours, they may become destructive without enough exercise and attention.

Can Bedlington Terrier stay indoors with limited walks?

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The consensus from the sources indicates that Bedlington Terriers are known to be protective of their loved ones and can exhibit territorial behavior if not properly socialized. While they are not typically aggressive without cause, they may assert dominance and pick fights with other dogs due to their territorial nature.

Is Bedlington Terrier protective or territorial?

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The consensus from the sources overwhelmingly indicates that Bedlington Terriers are very affectionate with their families, known for forming strong bonds, being protective, and making excellent family pets.

Is Bedlington Terrier affectionate with family?

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The consensus from the sources indicates that Bedlington Terriers require at least one hour of exercise per day, which can be split into multiple walks and playtime sessions. The majority of sources emphasize the need for daily exercise to keep the dog happy and healthy, with some suggesting even more than one hour of activity. Therefore, a rating of 4 is appropriate, indicating a high level of playtime needed daily.

How much playtime does a Bedlington Terrier need daily?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is Bedlington Terrier prone to allergies?

The Bedlington Terrier is considered a hypoallergenic breed due to its curly, wool-like coat that sheds minimally, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. However, they can still be prone to skin allergies, specifically atopy, which may cause itchy skin. Common health issues for Bedlington Terriers include copper toxicosis, patellar luxation, eye problems, and progressive retinal atrophy. While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, the Bedlington Terrier is ranked among the top hypoallergenic breeds due to its low shedding coat. Regular grooming is recommended to maintain their coat and minimize allergens.


Is Bedlington Terrier a hypoallergenic breed?

The Bedlington Terrier is often considered a hypoallergenic breed due to producing fewer allergens than many other breeds. They are known for their curly, wooly coat that is similar to that of a poodle, and they are described as medium-sized dogs that hardly drool or shed. While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Bedlington Terriers are ranked as one of the top hypoallergenic dog breeds. They are gentle, loveable dogs that are popular for their distinctive topknot hairdo and pom-pom ear tufts. However, it is important to note that terriers, including Bedlington Terriers, may have sensitivities to environmental allergies and eye issues that should be promptly addressed. Overall, the consensus among sources is that Bedlington Terriers are considered hypoallergenic due to their coat type and minimal shedding, making them a good choice for individuals with allergies.


What are common health issues in Bedlington Terrier?

Common health issues in Bedlington Terriers include copper toxicosis, patellar luxation, eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy, skin allergies, and ear problems like inflammation and infections. Copper toxicosis is a significant concern, as it can lead to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis due to an inherited metabolic defect. Other repeated health conditions mentioned are patellar luxation and eye problems. Additionally, hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, and various infections like distemper, adenovirus, and parvovirus are also highlighted as potential health issues to watch for in this breed. Regular testing and monitoring for copper levels, eye conditions, and joint health are essential for the well-being of Bedlington Terriers.


How often should a Bedlington Terrier visit the vet?

Bedlington Terriers should have regular check-ups at the vet every 6 to 12 months to monitor their health. Puppies may require more frequent visits for vaccinations, while older dogs may benefit from more frequent blood work and X-rays, especially after the age of 10. It is important to feed Bedlington Terriers a good quality, complete dog food as recommended by the vet. Regular grooming, including brushing and nail trimming, is essential for their maintenance. Additionally, dental care is crucial, with teeth needing to be brushed at least twice a week to maintain good oral health. Any concerning symptoms such as whimpering, coughing, or eye discharge should prompt a visit to the vet for further evaluation and treatment.


What is the average vet bill for a Bedlington Terrier?

Based on the information provided from various sources, the average annual vet bill for a Bedlington Terrier ranges from $500 to $1,000, covering routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative medications. The cost of a routine vet visit can vary between $25 to $250, with an average price of around $130 CAD for a vet exam. Additionally, initial consultations may range from $195 to $250. Overall, pet owners should budget around $62.44 per month for dogs, which includes routine veterinary care. The cost of a Bedlington Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more.


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