Introduction
The Bedlington Terrier, also known as the Rodbery Terrier or the Rothbury Terrier, is a breed of dog in the Terrier Group. Unlike most terriers, this breed has a poodle type coat, a body form that is more similar to that of a stocky greyhound, and it is known for its exceptional grace and agility. They were approved by the AKC in 1967.
The average Bedlington stands 15 - 17 inches at the withers and weighs between 18 – 23 pounds
Temperament
While the Bedlington’s body form and coat do not resemble that of the typical terrier, their personalities do. They are high energy, intelligent, friendly, and bold dogs. They are great family dogs and will form strong bonds with their human companions.
These dogs need plenty of exercise including space to run, and because of their intelligent nature they need plenty of mental stimulation and enjoy learning new commands and tricks. Bedlingtons are also excellent dogs for competitions of all kinds. Not only do they enjoy the activity, but their agile and graceful movements help them to excel in competitions.
Health
Bedlington Terriers can live up to 17 years or more. They have relatively few health problems, but they are at an increased risk for developing a condition known as copper toxicosis. Many Bedlingtons are genetically tested for this condition, so prospective owners will know whether or not their dog has inherited it. Their curly coat requires frequent brushing and grooming, and it is best to bathe them on a regular basis as their rough coat has a tendency to pick up dust and dirt.
History
The origin of the Bedlington Terrier was lost to history, but its breed was documented in 1820. The breed became popular due to their superior ratting and badger flushing skills and their ability to cover wide swaths of terrain without tiring. They were named after the town of Bedlington in Northumberland England.
Bedlington Terrier
Quick Facts
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Weight: 18-23 lbs
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Height: 15-17 in
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Coat: Thick, mixture of soft and harsh hairs
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Temperament: High energy, intelligent, friendly, and bold
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Lifespan: 17+ years