Bedlington Terrier

A soft coat on an alert terrier

The Bedlington Terrier comes from northern England and was historically used for tasks including hunting rabbits. It was once known as the Rothbury Terrier. Its slim, muscular build and arch of the back just in front of the hind legs are part of its familiar outline. The coat sets it apart from many terriers: it is soft and stands away from the body, rather than forming a harsh, wiry outer layer.

A lamb-like appearance tells you little about how a dog responds to movement. A rabbit running from a hedge may quickly catch a Bedlington’s attention. Recall, returning to you on a familiar cue, should be practised in easy settings first. Where wildlife is likely, an appropriate lead helps prevent a sudden chase.

Many Bedlingtons enjoy being close to their people. New visitors should still be introduced calmly. An adult should supervise time with children and provide breaks when the dog is left undisturbed. A cat already familiar with dogs may respond differently from one that runs at the first sight of them. Both animals’ previous experiences and behaviour should therefore guide introductions. Rabbits and other small prey animals should be kept physically separated from the dog.

Size and build

The FCI, the international organisation that publishes breed standards, gives an approximate adult shoulder height of 41 cm and a weight of 8 to 10 kg. Females may stand slightly below that height and males slightly above it. Height is measured at the withers, the highest point of the back just behind the neck. The darker puppy coat can become considerably lighter as the dog grows. A black puppy may therefore look quite different later.

Training works well when you reward the behaviour you want clearly and kindly. If your dog turns towards you as a cyclist passes, an appropriate treat can reward that calm response. Greater distractions should come later, once the exercise feels easy. A young dog also needs suitable food and exercise that increases gradually with growth.

The British breed club gives a lifespan guide of 12 to 14 years. For an older Bedlington, shorter walks and games with easily reached hiding places can preserve enjoyable shared activities. New limping, changes in sight or unusual tiredness should be investigated rather than simply attributed to age.

From puppy to senior: caring for your dog through every life stage ↗

Health

Copper storage disease, also called copper toxicosis, is an important issue in Bedlingtons. Too much copper accumulates in the liver and can damage it. Copper is an essential trace element, but an excess within the organ is harmful. Before choosing a puppy, you should examine the parents’ actual results and ask which inherited variants were tested.

A well-known DNA test examines the dog’s genetic material for a change in the COMMD1 gene. The gene contains instructions for a protein involved in how the body handles copper. Testing helps identify this known inherited form of the disease. A clear result does not, however, exclude every form of copper storage disease. A veterinary study published in 2023 confirms that Bedlingtons without the tested COMMD1 change can also develop the condition. Loss of appetite, repeated vomiting, unusual tiredness or weight loss should therefore be investigated by a vet. Any special liver diet or treatment should be agreed with a veterinary professional.

The American breed club also recommends checking the kneecaps and having a specialist eye examination. Patellar luxation means that a kneecap slips out of its normal track and may cause discomfort. Health reports should identify the dog, examination and date. In Fellfolio, you can keep veterinary documents and weight records alongside observations, making it easier to describe changes at the next appointment.

Could this breed fit your life?