Bedlington Terrier
A lamb by design, a terrier by conviction.
Vital stats
| Size | Small · 38–43 cm |
| Weight | 8–10 kg |
| Life expectancy | 12–14 years |
| Energy | Moderate — 60 min/day |
| Shedding | Very low |
| Coat | Curly, linty · blue, liver, sandy — with or without tan |
| Group | Terrier · FCI №9 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
Northumberland's miners and nailers bred the Bedlington to kill rats and rabbits by day and race for wagers by night, and both gifts remain: a soft, devoted housemate that transforms into a blur the instant something small bolts. It's milder and more cuddly than the terrier average — until challenged, when old pit courage resurfaces.
Habits & quirks
The instant transformation
Sofa ornament to sighthound in half a second flat whenever something furry moves.
Lamb impressions
Strangers will ask if it's a lamb, a poodle cross, or real; it enjoys the attention.
The dignified cuddle
More affectionate than most terriers, it claims laps with quiet, immovable certainty.
Grudge-free days, long memories
Sweet with people always — but it rarely forgets a dog that started something.
Care
| Grooming | Clip every six to eight weeks and comb weekly; the linty coat barely sheds but felts if ignored. |
| Health | Copper toxicosis runs in the breed — buy only from DNA-tested lines and tell your vet the breed's history. |
| Exercise | An hour daily with real sprint opportunities in secure areas; that Whippet blood wants using. |
| Containment | Off-lead freedom needs fenced space — recall competes badly with rabbits. |
Common questions
Do Bedlington Terriers shed?
Barely at all — the curly, linty coat holds its hair, which is why the breed suits many allergy-conscious homes. The trade-off is clipping every couple of months.
Are Bedlingtons aggressive?
With people, no — they're among the gentlest terriers. With rodents they're deadly by design, and some males won't back down if another dog picks a fight.
What is copper toxicosis in Bedlingtons?
An inherited inability to excrete copper, which accumulates in the liver. A DNA test identifies affected and carrier dogs, so buy from tested parents and screening is straightforward.