A Bedlington is an ideal friend who loves to be with you doing whatever you are. They love to play or share quiet moments, often being your shadow as you work, rest or play.
The Bedlington is a very intelligent, perceptive and inquisitive breed, showing their affection with a great love of people both young and old with grace and style. They are loyal, lively and headstrong. They have an inbuilt instinct which needs to please and loves nothing more than being the centre of attention, whether in the home or in the show ring.
They have a great temperament, being quiet and often subdued until stimulated when the terrier instinct takes over. They need to learn to like other household pets whilst young as the terrier in them is likely to take over. They usually get along with other dogs however when challenged they can be terrifying fighters.
A little powerhouse, it is energetic and courageous, an enthusiastic digger with the ability to run very fast, like the Whippet he loves to chase!
The Bedlington has a non-shedding coat, which is ideal for allergy sufferers, however it does require the dead hair to be removed, this is easily done with a comb once or twice a week – which also gives you plenty of bonding time with your pet. If left the coat will become matted and smelly and leads to an unhealthy pet. Regular trimming is also needed, approximately every 6-8 weeks, a good local dog groomer can do this for you or you can learn to trim yourself – there are various books on the market – it is probably best to speak to your local co-ordinator or breeder for their advise.
Living with Bedlingtons is a pleasure, they are easy to train, incredibly versatile, not to mention adaptable companions. Bedlingtons have an affectionate nature with his owners and is gently playful with children. The average lifespan of the breed is 11 to 16 years, and will be a pleasure to the owner for life.
Like most terriers the Bedlington is usually a healthy dog, however there are a few health problems you should be aware of. The main problem is a condition called Copper Toxicosis. It is disorder of copper accumulation that results in severe liver disease, unfortunately it is a hereditary disease which cannot be ignored. If your dog or a dog you are rescuing has the disease there are therapies available which once given can often lead to a long and full life.