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Breed Information Centre

Bedlington Terrier

Illustration of Bedlington Terrier

This unique breed has a lamb-like look about it, but don’t be fooled, he is a terrier through and through. A North Country dog, originally his role was to catch rabbits for the family pot, and a sporting dog he still remains.

It is claimed that the Bedlington can boast a longer traceable pedigree than any other terrier and once was known as the Rothbury Terrier, hailing from the former mining areas of the north of England. His fame spread outside his native region and an association was started for the breed in 1877.

One of the features peculiar to this breed is the coat which is described as ‘linty’, and his neat outline does require regular trimming. Although his expression is mild he is quite capable of fending for himself, but will not seek a scrap. He is a tough little dog, good in the house, and makes a delightful family pet.

 
Breed Group
Terrier
Vulnerable Breed
No
Size
Medium
How much exercise?
About 1 hour per day
Length of coat
Medium
How much grooming?
More than once a week
Supposedly sheds?*
No
Town or Country
Either
Type of home
Small or Large House
Minimum Garden Size
Small/Medium
* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on the Kennel Club website.
 

The Terrier Breed Group

Dogs originally bred and used for hunting vermin.  'Terrier' comes from the Latin word Terra, meaning earth.  This hardy collection of dogs were selectively bred to be extremely brave and tough, and to pursue fox, badger, rat and otter (to name but a few) above and below ground.  Dogs of terrier type have been known here since ancient times, and as early as the Middle Ages, these game little dogs were portrayed by writers, and painters.