The Bedlington Terrier breed is a small, short-haired dog with an easygoing personality and a lively appearance. This breed was developed in Bedlington, Northumberland (England), in the late 1800s and is on the AKC’s list of rare breeds. Whether you’re an experienced dog owner or a first-timer, a Bedlington Terrier puppy is sure to bring a unique blend of charm, agility, and intelligence into your home.
Bedlington Terrier History
Originating in England, the Bedlington Terrier was originally known as the Rothbury, Rodbury, or Northumberland fox terrier. The first Bedlington Terrier was born in 1825 when a Rothbury dog was bred with a female Bedlington.
The Bedlington Terrier breed was originally bred to hunt small vermin such as rabbits and badgers. They are mainly used as companion dogs today.
Appearance
The Bedlington Terrier is a small to medium sized dog that weighs between 18 and 23 pounds. Their height generally ranges between 15″ and 17″.
The AKC recognized coat colors for the Bedlington Terrier are sandy, blue, liver, sandy and tan, blue and tan, and liver and tan.
The coat is a mixture of soft and hard hair that tends to be curly but not wiry.
Temperament and Personality
This intelligent, loving, and gentle breed makes a good family pet. They are good with children. However, because they have such a high energy level, they are recommended for homes with older, well behaved children.
With early socialization, they can be good with other dogs and pets. They were bred to hunt vermin and small animals, so they might still chase cats and other non-canine pets. They tend to be wary of strangers, but will eventually warm up to them.
Exercise Requirements For The Bedlington Terrier
A well-secured yard and a leash are a must, as they are very quick dogs and are hard to catch if they run from you or are chasing an animal. They need plenty of play and exercise, but are somewhat active indoors, so a small yard or regular walks will suffice.
Trainability Of Bedlington Terrier Puppies
You’ve got to love these little pups—they’re not just adorable, but they’re also super trainable. You see, Bedlingtons are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, which makes them pretty good students when it comes to obedience training.
Of course, like any breed, they have their quirks; they can be a bit stubborn at times, so you’ll want to keep training sessions short and engaging. Positive reinforcement is the way to go here—lots of treats and praise when they get things right. Also, don’t underestimate the power of mental stimulation. These dogs are smart, and they love problem-solving games that challenge their brains.
Cost of Bedlington Terrier Puppies
If you’re considering bringing a Bedlington terrier puppy into your home, it’s important to be aware of the associated costs. These little furballs are not the cheapest dogs to purchase, with prices often ranging from $800 to $2,500 depending on the breeder’s reputation, the puppy’s lineage, and various other factors like certifications and medical clearances. But remember, the initial cost is just the beginning.
Is the Bedlington Terrier Right for You?
A breed with such a playful, loving, and energetic nature is perfect for families that will give them enough exercise and companionship. A good watchdog and a friendly family pet all rolled into one make the Bedlington Terrier fit into many family dynamics.
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