🐾 Small · United Kingdom (England)
A lamb-like-looking terrier with a strong prey drive and temperament, needing plenty of exercise and clear leadership despite its gentle appearance.
Beneath the soft, lamb-like coat lies a typical, spirited terrier temperament with a pronounced prey drive. The Bedlington Terrier is affectionate with his family but can be quarrelsome with unfamiliar dogs. He is agile, bold, and rarely fearful.
As a former vermin- and small-game-hunting dog, the Bedlington needs ample exercise and off-leash time in a securely fenced area. Without enough outlet, he tends toward restlessness and self-directed activity.
The curly, wool-like coat sheds very little but needs professional trimming into the characteristic lamb shape every six to eight weeks. Regular brushing is needed between appointments.
The pronounced prey drive and independent streak call for consistent training, so the breed is better recommended for experienced terrier owners. Newcomers should expect active training work.
Copper toxicosis, a disorder of copper metabolism in the liver, is characteristic of the breed, and genetic tests are now available. Patellar luxation and various retinal disorders also occur.
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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.
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