Yes, Bedlington Terriers can make good family dogs for the right family. They are friendly, affectionate, loyal, and enjoy spending time with their family. They are also known for their ability to work well with children. However, there may be better options for families with very young children, as Bedlington Terriers may be inclined to chase or nip at small moving objects.
Bedlington Terriers are energetic dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They may be the right choice for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors and can provide their dogs with plenty of exercise and playtime.
It’s important to note that Bedlington Terriers may have a high prey drive, so there may be better choices for families with small pets. However, they may also exhibit dominant behavior, so proper training and socialization are essential to prevent behavior problems.
Temperament
Bedlington Terriers are known for their unique temperament. They have a charming personality and are great companions for families. They are friendly, loyal, and affectionate dogs that love to be around people. However, like any other breed, they have personality traits that can make them suitable for some families but not others.
Playfulness
Bedlington Terriers are playful dogs that love to be active, confirmed by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals. They are full of energy and enjoy running around and playing games. They are excellent with children and can keep them entertained for hours.
However, they can be too playful for some families, especially those with young children or older adults. They can accidentally knock over small children or cause injury if they get too excited during playtime.
Trainability
Bedlington Terriers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They react well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new things. They are obedient dogs that are eager to please their owners. However, they can sometimes be stubborn and require patience and persistence during training. They can also be sensitive dogs that do not respond well to harsh training methods.
Exercise Needs
Bedlington Terriers are active and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A brisk daily walk of at least 30 minutes is recommended, but they also enjoy playing fetch, long walks or runs, and swimming. However, it is important to note that Bedlingtons are not high-energy dogs that require miles of running.
While they might not require much activity, Bedlingtons are little athletes who love to run at full speed, so they need a large enough fenced yard to break into a gallop. Frequent trips to the dog park are recommended to supply them with adequate space to stretch their legs and run around.
Bedlington Terriers can adapt to apartment living but require daily exercise to prevent obesity and boredom. They are also sensitive to extreme weather conditions, so it is important to adjust their exercise routine accordingly.
Grooming Requirements
Bedlington Terriers have a unique coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its texture and appearance. The curly, wool-like fur of the Bedlington Terrier is hypoallergenic and sheds minimally, making it a great choice for families with allergies. However, this coat requires regular upkeep to prevent matting and tangling.
Brushing should happen 4-5 times weekly to keep the coat smooth and tangle-free. Wetting the coat with mist from a spray bottle can help make brushing easier. A slicker brush or comb can smooth the fur, and scissors or clippers with a long guard can trim the long, unruly hairs.
In addition to brushing, Bedlington Terriers need regular baths to keep their coat neat and healthy. It is recommended to bathe them every 4-6 weeks or as needed if they get dirty or smelly. A dog-specific shampoo and conditioner are important to avoid drying out their skin.
Bedlington Terriers also need regular nail trims, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning to maintain overall health and hygiene. Their unique ears require special attention, as they must be trimmed to neaten the ear tassels. Therefore, it is suggested to have a professional groomer trim their ears to avoid any injury or discomfort.
Health Concerns
Bedlington Terriers are generally healthy but, like all dogs, are vulnerable to specific health conditions. Potential owners must know these health concerns before bringing a Bedlington Terrier into their home.
One of the most serious health issues that Bedlington Terriers can face is copper toxicosis. This genetic condition causes copper to build up inside cells, particularly in the liver. This condition can be lethal if left untreated, so breeders must test their dogs for this condition, and potential owners must ask for proof of testing before purchasing a puppy.
Other health concerns that Bedlington Terriers may be prone to include:
- Eyelash abnormalities and tear duct disorders
- Entropion, glaucoma, and dry eye
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Anemia
- Thyroid disorders
One thing I discovered the hard way is that regular visits to the vet and proper care can help prevent or manage these health issues. It is also important to feed Bedlington Terriers a healthy diet and provide them with regular exercise to maintain their overall health and well-being.
