Bedlington Terrier
With its lamb-like look, the Bedlington Terrier hides a fast hunter. Gentle and affectionate at home, it sheds very little.
History and origins
The Bedlington Terrier comes from north-east England, near the mining town of Bedlington, where it hunted rats, rabbits and badgers. Crosses with sighthounds gave it its arched outline and speed.
It was long the companion of miners and poachers.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate and calm indoors, the Bedlington becomes quick and lively outside. It is usually good with children, but its hunting instinct remains strong.
It learns well with gentle training.
Health
The breed is predisposed to an inherited liver disease caused by copper build-up; a genetic test exists. Some eye conditions are also reported.
Choose a breeder who tests their breeding dogs.
This is general information. For any question about your dog's health, consult a veterinarian.
Feeding
Good-quality food, with appropriate copper content if needed, suits it; ask your veterinarian for advice.
Watch its weight.
Exercise
It needs about an hour of daily activity and loves to run in an enclosed area.
Keep it on a lead outside safe areas.
Calm indoors, it lives well in an apartment if it can run safely on a regular basis.
Grooming
Its linty coat hardly sheds but tangles: brush weekly and give it a breed-specific trim every six to eight weeks.
Clean its ears regularly.
