General Information
Boasting a longer traceable pedigree than any other terrier, the curly coated Bedlington Terrier gives a lamb like illusion. The breed hails from the mining area in the north of England and was first called the Rothbury Terrier in the 1830's. He was originally bred from the wire coated terriers used locally, probably crossed with hound (i.e. Otterhound) and perhaps Whippet as well. One of the breeds forefathers, "Peacham," is mentioned as both a Bedlington and a Dandie Dinmont.
The Bedlington carries a long drop ear and an arch over the loin, both hinting of sighthound. He is also unusual in that he carries the blue or liver colours, probably an inheritance from his sighthound ancestors as well.
He was a favourite with miners and nailmakers for ratting and badgering. In the hunt, he swam after Otters and ran down rabbits. A game fellow, he slowly drew a following outside Northumberland, with an English national association for him starting in 1877. At that time, the breed was known to be a tough game dog who would fight to the death if necessary. Gypsies and Tinkers kept them as pit fighters, as well as poaching assistants. His skills in poaching caused him still to be known in some parts of England as the Gypsy Dog.
Although type has vastly improved over the years, his popularity as a ladies companion tempered his tough working qualities. It is his great heart and lovable personality that endears him as a pet and he is no longer selected for his hunting attributes.
The coat requires periodic trimming to maintain the Bedlington guise. For the show ring, he is hand-scissored to his modern shape, not stripped like other terriers. His terrier heart still makes him a fine alarm dog.
REMEMBER!
THIS BREED REQUIRES REGULAR GROOMING
Why a Bedlington Terrier?
The Bedlington Terrier has a NON SHEDDING COAT and is ideal for allergy sufferers.
He is equally at home in the city or country and his sweet, loving nature makes him the ideal family companion.
