Bedlington Terrier - breed description and dog character

Dog lovers with a twist will definitely pay attention to the Bedlington Terrier. This is one of the most original breeds in the whole world. Bedlington terriers owe their uniqueness to the appearance that brings them closer to the sheep. Dogs have an elongated head resembling a pear, the fur coat of the pets is curled up and has a white color. However, the nature of the representatives of this breed is very multifaceted. He became the reason for assigning such a nickname to dogs - “lambs with the heart of a lion”. Consider the features of this breed in more detail.

Bedlington Terrier breed history

Bedlington terriers appeared in the eastern part of Great Britain, in a small town called Bedlington. It is easy to guess that it was in his honor that the animals were named. Pets were not born for the sake of simple curiosity. The newly minted breed was needed by the miners: Bedlington terriers had to hunt rats that filled the entire space of the mines and prevented them from working.

Not only this breed found its application there. Dogs were taken for hunting, which led to the growth of its breeding among poachers. It is interesting that the skills of the Bedlington Terriers pushed the inhabitants of England to establish a competition of fun in catching rats. The developed intelligence of dogs attracted the attention of stray artists. So, representatives of this breed were among gypsies who taught pets tricks and dexterity. This story of the origin of the Bedlington Terriers fanned the breed with a large number of mystical legends and rumors.

The British said that once three united Bedlington terriers were able to kill a bear that appeared in a forest village. Others echo to them the story of how the Bedlington Terrier dealt with a hundred rats in 10 minutes. Still others note the pet’s ability to dodge target-oriented shots.

Of course, these stories are legendary. But professional dog handlers admit that they could be based on the real heroes of dogs of this breed. Indeed, behind the appearance of the “cute sheep” lies a dexterous and strong dog that is able to cope with the most difficult tasks.

For the first time, Bedlington Terriers were mentioned in 1825 in the book, The Life of James Allen. But all researchers unanimously claim that the breed appeared long before this moment. Starting her ascent from the mines, she very soon became famous. This led to its spread in higher circles of society. Bedlington Terriers quickly found themselves in an environment of wealth and luxury. The peak of the breed's career was that the Bedlington Terrier became the pet of the Queen of England.

The international standard of external characteristics of the breed was established in 1867. After this, Bedlington Terriers became active participants in various contests and exhibitions. Of course, over time, the appearance of the representatives of this breed has undergone changes. The character of the animal did not remain without interference. Today, most Bedlington Terriers look more refined than their ancestors. It is this type of breed that has gained widespread distribution throughout the world.

However, in our days in Great Britain a Club of admirers of purebred dogs of this breed was created, under the auspices of which the breeding of Bedlington Terriers with hunting qualities and working character continues.

Characteristics of the appearance of the bedlington terrier

1. The average height of the dog at the withers reaches 21 cm.
2. The average weight does not exceed 11 kg.
3. The average life expectancy of representatives of this breed is 15 years.
4. The animal's appearance is like a sheep. It is distinguished by grace and harmony in the proportions of body parts. A striking characteristic of the dog is a curved back.
5. The pet's head has an oblong shape resembling a pear. It has such features as convex superciliary arches, a weakly pronounced occipital protuberance, and not prominent cheekbones. All this gives the skull a rounded shape.
6. Dogs of this breed have low set thin ears of a triangular shape. They are often rounded from the bottom and have a woolen frame. The outer surface of the ear is covered with velvet that feels like velvet.
7. The nose of the pet is wide enough. Usually it is painted in dark shades of flowers.
8. The lips of the dog tightly adjacent to the jaw are also painted in dark color (sand is sometimes found).
9. Dogs move dynamically and rapidly. The type of movement during the walk is a quick gallop. When slowing down, they become graceful and springy.
10. The jaws of the pet are very developed and differ in strength. In the set of teeth there are linear incisors.
11. The eyes of the representatives of this breed are characterized by a deep landing. Their characteristic feature is a triangular shape. The color of the iris varies from brown to hazel shades.
12. The breed has a high set neck. The active lifestyle of the pet makes it muscular, smoothly turning into the withers.
13. The upper line of the body of the dog outlines the arch. The withers do not stand out in the body. The chest protrudes slightly with the ribs, the stomach is tucked up.
14. The tail of the pet is long, has a thickening of the base, tapers significantly towards the end. The shape of the tail resembles a saber. If the dog is calm, the tail hangs down.
15. Paws of the pet are close to each other. The shoulder of the legs is oblique, the forearm is long, the hips are slightly inclined.
16. The coat is evenly spread over the surface of the whole body. She is a dense fur coat. The structure of the coat is soft. In texture - tends to curl. On the top of the head, the hair forms a “hat”. Its color differs from the rest of the coat in a lighter shade.
17. Representatives of the breed have the color of traditional colors. These include total white, white with opal, sand, brown with red tints. Usually puppies have a dark color. When their age reaches one year, they change the coat, the color of which is lighter than the previous one.

The nature and behavior of Bedlington Terriers

1. They often behave unyieldingly and stubbornly.
2. Well trained, fast-paced in development, easily socialized.
3. They need life in a state of permanent physical and intellectual training. Various feasible loads will make the pet happy and save the owner from unnecessary problems.
4. Able to show cruelty, but not in relation to the owner, but on his orders.
5. They do not like training because they are stubborn and well intellectually developed.
6. They are wayward, which brings inexperienced owners a lot of difficulties in the process of education.
7. They are attached to one owner, but get along well with other people.
8. Like all terriers, they like to dig minks.
9. Use the skills of a shepherd dog (pinching for limbs) in relation to other animals and even to the owner.

Temperament Bedlington Terrier

Representatives of this breed often behave like real British gentlemen. They can hardly stand the increased tone, do not accept rudeness and scream. Bedlington terriers often show chivalrous qualities, because they always protect the owner and take his side. Pets are fairly clean. To puddles or dirt roads, they will prefer grass or clean asphalt.A distinctive feature of the breed, which at the same time is its huge advantage, is that the dog practically does not shed, so a pet of this breed is perfect for allergy sufferers.

The emphasized rapid socialization of dogs is manifested in their relationship with children. Bedlington terriers tremblingly communicate with kids, often endure rude games, playing the role of a living toy. Pets behave well in the absence of owners, so leaving him alone at home can not expect unprofitable surprises from him.

Dogs of this breed prefer to lead an active lifestyle. They are energetic, happy to keep company with their master in jogging, they will easily go on a trip with him. Pets freely perform various exercises, moreover, they are vital for him. Otherwise, Bedlington Terriers fade away or turn into lazy dogs with a bad character. During walks, you should keep the Bedlington Terrier on a leash, since a developed hunting instinct can push a pet to chase a squirrel or a cat. The stubbornness of the dog will not allow you to quickly stop his team.

They require respect for themselves, because with them poorly go through educational processes with the use of force. Dogs will definitely answer you with a growl and bark. Bedlington terriers have a good memory, which with a bad attitude to the dog will turn into vindictiveness. This makes the breed vindictive.

Pets love to play using special toys. However, remember that Bedlington Terriers will treat them as their property and will not share toys with other dogs. Representatives of this breed appreciate the time spent next to their beloved owner. But they will never impose their attention if they see that the owner is busy. They will prefer to settle down in the distance so as not to burden themselves, but at the same time they will tirelessly monitor what a person is doing in order to protect his safety.

Dogs quickly find a common language with other pets, but will achieve the title of their favorite pet, as it is important for him to be in the spotlight. Bedlington Terriers are touchy and jealous. Please note that the nature and original purpose of the Bedlington Terriers will not allow them to get along with domestic rodents (rats, mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, etc.)

Bedlington Terrier Specifics

1. Pets will be equally comfortable in the apartment and in the country house. Please note that dogs of this breed should not be kept outdoors in winter, as they cannot live in the cold.
2. An active lifestyle is extremely important for dogs of this breed. Do not ignore the desire of the pet to go for a walk or play.
3. Bedlington Terriers need combing. The cleanliness of the dog should be considered when choosing the road during the walk.
4. Bathing a dog more than twice a year is not necessary.
5. Make your habit of periodically rubbing the dog’s eyes, otherwise their contamination will cause the disease.
6. In the organization of the diet, remember that the liver does not work well in the pet. The Bedlington Terrier should be fed natural foods that are high in vitamins.
7. Take your dog to the veterinarian for routine examinations, as many diseases have no external signs, but entail great consequences.

How to train a belington terrier?

Where can I get a Bedlington Terrier puppy?

This original breed is rare in our country, as there are no official nurseries in Russia. You can buy a puppy only from individuals, better than those whose dogs are presented at exhibitions. If you plan to make an exhibition and competitive career with your pet, make sure that you have the documents, because without them your plans will not be possible.

Another option is to purchase a purebred puppy abroad. However, this option is expensive.

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