Dog Breed

Bedlington Terrier

RareHypoallergenic
Primary image of Bedlington Terrier dog breed
Full Name
Bedlington Terrier
Alternate Names
Rothbury Terrier, Rodbery Terrier, Rothbury's Lamb
Your PupScore
Take the best dog breed quiz to get your Pup Scores!
Life Span
14 - 16 years
Weight
17 - 23 pounds
Description

Today's Bedlington Terrier is gentle and affectionate with its family but spirited and enjoys exercise. In fact, you may be surprised that in the 1800s, this breed was used in coal mines for work and even at some point as a fighting dog. It still has that terrier confidence and mentality but has developed into much more of a family companion.

The Bedlington has a beautiful coat that virtually does not shed at all, but it does continue to grow and requires regular grooming. They are hypoallergenic and keep themselves surprisingly clean for a dog with such a pure white coat.

Origin
England
Bred For
Killing rat, badger, other vermin
Attachments
    Family Considerations
    Child Friendly

    Is the Bedlington Terrier good with children?

    The Bedlington Terrier is about average in how friendly they are with children. They can be friendly and loving with children, but we recommend that they get early socialization, and are not left alone with children for extended periods.
    Stranger Friendly

    Is the Bedlington Terrier friendly with strangers?

    The Bedlington Terrier is about average in how friendly they are with strangers. They can be timid or protective, but with proper training and socialization can be fine for any household.
    Dog Friendly

    Is the Bedlington Terrier friendly with other dogs?

    The Bedlington Terrier is about average in how friendly they are with other dogs. They can be timid or defensive, but with proper training and socialization can be fine for dog parks and living with other dogs at home.
    Likes to Cuddle

    Does the Bedlington Terrier like to cuddle?

    The Bedlington Terrier appreciates affection and that includes kisses and snuggles!
    Playfulness

    Does the Bedlington Terrier like to play?

    The Bedlington Terrier is playful both as a puppy and as an adult dog. As they get older they may appreciate their alone time, and may not be in the mood for constant play, but certainly will have plenty of time for play as well.
    Service Dog Ability

    Does the Bedlington Terrier make a good service dog?

    Historically, the Bedlington Terrier has never been used as a service dog and really would not be a good fit.
    Overall Ease of Breed
    Ease for Novice

    Is the Bedlington Terrier good for first-time owners?

    The Bedlington Terrier is not the easiest breed for first-time owners, but can certainly still work out if the owner is willing to put the time into training and exercise.
    Training Potential

    How well can the Bedlington Terrier be trained?

    The Bedlington Terrier is about average when it comes to training potential. The Bedlington Terrier can be seen in competitions and can have advanced training, but it would require much dedication and oftentimes professional training.
    Amount of Shedding

    Does the Bedlington Terrier shed a lot?

    No! The Bedlington Terrier does not shed very much, and can be an excellent fit for someone who suffers from dog allergies.
    Ease of Grooming

    Is the Bedlington Terrier easy to groom?

    The Bedlington Terrier requires a good amount of grooming work. It is possible to do it yourself, but you need to plan on dedicating weekly grooming sessions at the minimum.
    Exercise Need

    Does the Bedlington Terrier need a lot of exercise?

    The Bedlington Terrier requires an average amount of exercise. You should be ready to dedicate a couple of short walks or a larger dog park session each day for your Bedlington Terrier to be happy and fulfilled.
    Personality
    Intelligence

    How smart is the Bedlington Terrier?

    The Bedlington Terrier has average intelligence. They are smart and witty, but do not need to be constantly challenged mentally, as some other breeds.
    Amount of Barking

    How much does the Bedlington Terrier bark? Does the Bedlington Terrier bark too much?

    The Bedlington Terrier occasionally barks, but only for specific reasons such as when they need something, for protection, etc.
    Guard Dog Ability

    Is the Bedlington Terrier a good guard dog?

    The Bedlington Terrier would not make a good guard dog. They can be alert, but typically do not have the desire or instinct to take on "guarding" as their job.
    Tolerates Being Alone

    Is the Bedlington Terrier good at staying alone? Is the Bedlington Terrier independent?

    The Bedlington Terrier prefers having family around at all times, but can also do well when left alone. The Bedlington Terrier still needs plenty of attention, but is independent, and can typically be left alone for several hours without issues.
    Home and Environment Considerations
    Good for Apartment Living

    Is the Bedlington Terrier a good apartment dog?

    The Bedlington Terrier can be a good dog for apartment living. Daily exercise is still important, but the Bedlington Terrier is a better fit for apartment living than most breeds.
    Size

    How big is the Bedlington Terrier?

    The Bedlington Terrier is below average when it comes to size. They are not a "toy" breed, but it is still significantly easier to travel with them.
    Tolerates Heat

    How much does the Bedlington Terrier tolerate hot weather? When is it too hot for a Bedlington Terrier?

    The Bedlington Terrier can tolerate hot weather well. They still prefer having some variation and a cool space to sleep, but overall they can do well in warm climates.
    Tolerates Cold

    How much does the Bedlington Terrier tolerate cold weather? When is it too cold for a Bedlington Terrier?

    The Bedlington Terrier does not tolerate cold weather very well, and we would not recommend having a Bedlington Terrier if you live in a very cold weather climate. Even if your home is warm, it can be inconvenient to go on walks, and you may need to have a sweater for your Bedlington Terrier.
    Potential to Run Away

    Does the Bedlington Terrier try to run away?

    The Bedlington Terrier does sometimes run away. This is especially true if they are distracted, or see other cats or dogs. They probably won't go out of their way to "escape", but a fenced yard is still recommended.
    Physical Characteristics
    General Health

    Is the Bedlington Terrier a healthy dog? The health of a Bedlington Terrier should be measured not just by how many years they live, but also by how many health issues they've had. It is important to know which health conditions your breed is prone to- hip problems, eye problems, bloating, and arthritis are all common dog health problems.

    The Bedlington Terrier is very healthy, but it is still important to feed the Bedlington Terrier high-quality food and to live a healthy lifestyle.
    Energy Level

    How energetic is the Bedlington Terrier?

    The Bedlington Terrier has a good amount of energy and it's important to give the Bedlington Terrier daily walks and ideally run time as well. A well-exercised dog is easier to train, and will be happier and have less likelihood for destructive habits.
    Amount of Drooling

    How much does the Bedlington Terrier drool?

    The Bedlington Terrier does not drool at all.
    Prey Drive

    Does the Bedlington Terrier have a large prey drive? Does the Bedlington Terrier like to chase birds, cats, and other small animals?

    The Bedlington Terrier has a high prey drive and has a natural tendency to chase after any small animal. Every case is unique, but the Bedlington Terrier may not be the best dog for living with other cats or small animals.
    Athleticism

    Is the Bedlington Terrier atheltic?

    The Bedlington Terrier is athletic and has average levels of endurance. They need a lot of exercise, and can be an exercise partner as long as it's nothing too extreme.
  • Secondary image of Bedlington Terrier dog breed

1 of 2

  • Thumbnail image 0 of Bedlington Terrier dog breed
  • Thumbnail image 1 of Bedlington Terrier dog breed
  1. Terrier
  2. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a purebred dog that falls within the larger Terrier dog breed group.
Terrier group: Anyone who has had a terrier knows that they come with a big personality. Across the Terrier dog group there is much variation, but they are all feisty, proud, and extremely loyal to their family. With this strong personality comes stubbornness, so they are not the easiest dog, especially for a first time dog owner. However, with training and a strong owner, they can be some of the most rewarding dogs- their strong personality is fun, active, and will always bring something new. Terriers were originally bred for hunting, exterminating small vermin, and home protection. Terriers are a healthy and athletic breed. Because of this they require a good amount of exercise.

Bedlington Terriers for adoption

Similar Breeds