Bedlington Terrier

Rothbury Terrier, Rodbury Terrier
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Bedlington Terrier is a gentle and intelligent breed with a distinctive lamb-like appearance, known for its unique pear-shaped head and curved back, and is a good companion for families. Originating in England, this terrier was initially used for hunting vermin and has since become a popular show and companion dog.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Bedlington, Northumberland, England.
  • Initially used for hunting vermin.
  • Also used in dog racing.
  • Later became a show dog and companion dog.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female15.5-17.5 inches (39-44 cm)17-23 pounds (7.7-10.4 kg)
Male15.5-17.5 inches (39-44 cm)17-23 pounds (7.7-10.4 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Blue
  • Liver
  • Sandy
  • Often with tan markings
  • Can have varying shades and mixtures of colors
Type
  • Thick and crisp
  • Linty
  • Does not have undercoat
Length
  • Medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Low
Grooming
  • Regular professional grooming
  • Brush weekly
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Pear or wedge-shaped
  • Covered with a profuse topknot
Skull
  • Narrow and rounded
Ears
  • Triangular
  • Rounded at the tips
  • Low set, hanging close to the cheek
  • Covered with short, fine hair
Eyes
  • Small
  • Deep set
  • Almond shaped
  • Dark
  • Hazel in liver dogs
  • Light or amber in blue dogs
Nose
  • Large
  • Well defined nostrils
  • Color related to coat
  • Black in blues and sandies, brown in livers
Muzzle
  • Long
  • Tapering
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Long
  • Tapering
  • Arched
Forequarters
  • Muscular
  • Moderate angulation
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Longer than usual for a Terrier
  • Sloping into feet
Hindquarters
  • Arched
  • Muscular
  • Moderate angulation
Hind Legs
  • Appearing longer than forelegs
  • Hocks well let down
Feet
  • Hare-like
  • Long
  • Thick pads
  • Well knuckled
Tail
  • Tapering
  • Thick at the root
  • Set low
  • Carried curved and slightly upward
Gait
  • Light
  • Springy
  • Graceful
  • Unique rocking motion
  • Fast

Temperament

  • Intelligent
  • Gentle
  • Good-natured
  • Playful
  • Affectionate
  • Can be tenacious
  • Can be willful
  • Can be good watchdogs

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Yes
Good with Children
  • Generally good
  • Can be sensitive
  • Supervision recommended with younger children
Good with Dogs
  • Generally good
  • Can be assertive if challenged
Good with Cats
  • Potentially good with early socialization
  • Prey drive may need management
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
  • May be initially wary
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Moderate
  • Good watchdog
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate
  • Adapts well to family life

Working Roles

  • Vermin hunter
  • Dog racing
  • Show dog
  • Companion dog

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate
  • Daily walks required
  • Enjoys active play

Health

  • Copper toxicosis
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Patellar luxation
  • Renal disease
  • Heart issues

Additional Notes

  • Prone to sunburn
  • Not a fan of extreme temperatures
  • Can be sensitive to medications

References