https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fqQd5H9qz1YrXccXZHBDVdAdJP96NArO8ovUymH1ln4/edit?usp=sharingIs it a lamb? No, it’s a Bedlington Terrier dog breed! This medium –small terrier will draw attention wherever it goes with its characteristic pear -shaped head, curly coat and arched back. And do not be deceived by these sweet vulnerable sheepish appearances below is hidden a brave hunter, full of energy, love to sport, and the heart of a lion.
This particular dog breed has its origins in the mining town of Bedlington, England and has an illustrious history of hunting badgers, foxes, rabbits and more. Bedlington Terriers today do agility trials, are loving family dogs, and even approach hypoallergenic with their low shedding.
Are you ready to know why the Bedlington Terrier dog breed is so interesting? So, without further ado, let us get into our top 10 interesting facts!
Why the Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed Is So Unique
The Bedlington Terrier is one of the most distinctively appearance dog breeds, which tends to mislead people by its lamb resemblance. Nevertheless don’t think beneath the soft curly hairs you will find the heart of a bold and vivacious terrier!
TOP 10 interesting facts about Bedlington Terriers.
| # | Category | Fun Fact |
| 1️⃣ | Origin | Bedlington Terriers originated in Northumberland, England, and were first bred in the mining town of Bedlington hence the name. |
| 2️⃣ | Surprising Hunters | Despite their gentle appearance, these dogs were formidable hunters of vermin, rabbits, and even badgers. |
| 3️⃣ | Color Change | Bedlington Terrier puppies often change color as they grow a blue puppy may mature into a lighter or steel-gray shade. |
| 4️⃣ | High Energy Levels | These dogs are incredibly energetic and athletic, making them ideal for active families or individuals who enjoy walks and playtime. |
| 5️⃣ | Social and Playful | Bedlingtons are friendly, affectionate, and love being around people. They thrive on attention and enjoy interactive play. |
| 6️⃣ | Smart but Stubborn | While they are highly intelligent, Bedlingtons can also be independent thinkers, which may require consistent, patient training. |
| 7️⃣ | The Heart of a Lion | Don’t be fooled by their soft looks they are brave, confident, and won’t back down from a challenge. |
| 8️⃣ | Size and Build | Bedlingtons are medium-sized with a unique arched back and a lamb-like look light, agile, and graceful in movement. |
| 9️⃣ | Hypoallergenic | Their distinctive coat is low-shedding and allergy-friendly, making them a great choice for sensitive households. |
| 🔟 | Long Lifespan | With proper care, Bedlington Terriers often live 12–16 years, staying healthy and cheerful well into their senior years. |
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1. Origin
The precise history of the Bedlington Terrier is somewhat hazy, though the majority of authorities think it has something to do with other dogs such as the Otterhound and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. A dog known as the Rothbury Terrier was used in hunting in the 1700s. It is regarded as the original Bedlington. In 1825, two Rothbury Terriers were bred by a breeder known as Joseph Ainsley and the puppies were named after the mining town of Bedlington in England.
2. Surprising Hunters
They are so cute, however, remember that this is a real terrier. Bedlingtons are Intrepid, tenacious and very competent hunters that have a high prey drive. In the past they used to hunt rabbits, rats, foxes, otters and even badgers.
3. Color Change
The majority of adult Bedlingtons are of lighter color, such as sandy, liver or blue. However, this is a interesting fact about Bedlington puppies, they are actually born with dark colored coats, but as they just get older their coat lightens in color. Also when they heal after being injured the hair on that part usually grows darker.
4. High Energy Levels
And do not be deceived by their lamb-like appearance Bedlington Terriers are energetic dogs with extensive stamina. They are also very swift and maneuverable, both on land and in the water! This is why they usually excel in dog sports such as agility, tracking, and swimming.
5. Social and Playful
Bedlingtons enjoy the limelight. They are spiritually playful, loving, and clownish and they love being with their people. They have a playful nature, and thus get along great with older kids.
6. Smart but Stubborn
These dogs are smart and fast learners, yet independent as terriers are true. Training ought to be patient and regular. Cruel treatment will not help, and, in spite of that, a strict positive position will make them good-mannered companions.
7. The Heart of a Lion
As they say old Bedlington Terrier has a head of lamb and the heart of a lion.
And it is true they are fearless, and some of them are protective. They require appropriate training and socialization, but with it, they become confident but soft family dogs
8. Size and Build
The Bedlington Terrier is a medium-small breed with a curly coat, arched back, and a pear-shaped head.
- Height: 15 – 18 inches 38 – 44 cm
- Weight: 17 – 23 pounds 7-11 kg
Females tend to be slightly smaller than males.
9. Hypoallergenic (Almost)
No dog can be considered completely hypoallergenic, but the Bedlington Terrier is as close as it gets. They do not shed a lot, and they are low odor. Nevertheless, they continue to secrete dander and saliva, which may cause allergy to vulnerable individuals.
In addition, they require frequent grooming of their coat that should be brushed, combed and trimmed once a month.
10. Long Lifespan
One of the best things about this breed is its long lifespan; they often live 13 to 15 years !
That said, they can be prone to a few health issues, including:
- Patellar luxation
- Retinal dysplasia
- Copper toxicosis
What Is Patellar Luxation?
Patellar Luxation is an orthopedic disease that is most prevalent in small dog breeds such as the Bedlington Terrier. You can add this brief explanation to your article or post to make readers understand it:
Patellar luxation is a dislocating kneecap (patella) of the dog out of its usual place in the femur groove. It can shift to the side that is normally inwards and can pop back in either automatically or with some help.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Occasional skipping or hopping on one leg
- Sudden lifting of a hind leg while walking or running
- Limping or stiffness in the rear legs
- Signs of discomfort or pain when moving
How It Affects the Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed
Bedlington Terrier dog breed is generally a healthy dog but luxation of the patella (dislocation of the kneecap) especially medial luxation (inward dislocation) is common in this dog breed. It may be mild ( occasional slipping ) to severe ( chronic lameness or joints damage ).
Treatment & Management:
- Mild cases: Weight management, joint supplements, and low-impact exercise
- Moderate to severe cases: Surgical correction to realign the kneecap and improve joint function
- Preventive care: Regular vet checkups and early intervention help avoid long-term damage
Retinal Dysplasia in Bedlington Terriers
Retinal dysplasia is an ocular disorder, which influences the growth of the retina, which is the light-sensing tissue situated at the back of the eye. Dogs affected with this condition experience improper formation of the layers of the retina that may result in vision difficulties.
What Causes Retinal Dysplasia?
The condition is normally hereditary, that is, it is genetically transmitted. It may also be caused by viral infections, exposure to toxins or nutritional deficiency during growth but in the case of Bedlington Terrier dog breed, this occurs mainly because of genetics.
Types of Retinal Dysplasia:
- Focal or Multifocal – Small folds in the retina; dogs may not show symptoms or vision loss.
- Geographic – Larger areas of retinal malformation; may lead to partial vision issues.
- Total Retinal Dysplasia – Complete retinal detachment; causes blindness.
Copper Toxicosis in Bedlington Terrier Dog Breed
Copper toxicosis is a severe hereditary liver disease that Bedlington Terrier, more than other dog breeds, is prone to. It happens when the liver of a dog cannot normally get rid of excessive copper, and, as a result, a dog has a gradual accumulation of the mineral in the liver.
What Causes It?
A genetic mutation that affects the liver function of disposing copper causes copper toxicosis in Bedlington Terriers. When copper builds up it causes inflammation, liver damage and liver failure ensues unless treated.
Symptoms of Copper Toxicosis:
The condition may be silent for years before symptoms appear, typically between 2-6 years of age:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Increased thirst and urination
- Yellowing of eyes or gums (jaundice)
- Abdominal swelling
Diagnosis & Treatment
Copper toxicosis can be diagnosed through:
- Blood tests (elevated liver enzymes)
- Liver biopsy (to confirm copper accumulation)
- Genetic testing (to identify carriers or affected dogs)
Treatment includes:
- Copper-restricted diets
- Chelation therapy (medications that bind copper for excretion)
- Liver-supportive supplements
- Regular monitoring of liver function
Early detection is key to slowing disease progression and extending a dog’s quality of life.
Importance of Genetic Testing
Since it is a hereditary condition, conscientious breeders have their dogs genetically tested in order not to breed affected puppies or carriers. When you are planning to take a Bedlington Terrier, be sure to demand copper toxicosis test results of both parents to the breeder.
