Regular brushing is key to keeping a Bedlington Terrier’s coat in good condition. Brushing should happen 4-5 times weekly to prevent matting and tangling. Wetting the coat with mist from a spray bottle can make brushing easier, and using a comb and slicker brush can help to smooth out any curly fur.
Trimming long and unruly hairs is also important in Bedlington Terrier grooming. Scissors or clippers with a long guard can be used to cut out any excess hair carefully. Bathing is also important, but using mild shampoo and warm (not hot) water is important. With these tips in mind, grooming a Bedlington Terrier can be a fun and satisfying experience for the dog and its owner.
Understanding Bedlington Terrier’s Coat
Bedlington Terriers have a unique coat that requires regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Understanding the different types and colors of the Bedlington Terrier’s coat can help you choose the right grooming techniques and products to keep your pup looking sharp.
Coat Types
According to the American Kennel Club, Bedlington Terriers have soft and curly fur. There are two main types of Bedlington Terrier coats:
- Open Coat: This coat has long, soft curls that are easy to see through. It is the most common type of Bedlington Terrier coat.
- Close Coat: This coat has tightly packed curls that are difficult to see. It is less common than the open coat.
No matter your Bedlington Terrier’s coat, it requires regular grooming to stay healthy and look its best.
Coat Colors
Bedlington Terriers come in a variety of coat colors, including:
| Blue | A light blue-gray color |
| Liver | A rich brown color |
| Sandy | A light beige color |
| Black | A deep black color |
When grooming your Bedlington Terrier, choosing products and techniques appropriate for your dog’s coat color is important. For example, a blue Bedlington Terrier may require a different shampoo than a liver Bedlington Terrier to keep its coat looking its best.
Tools and Equipment Needed for Grooming
Proper grooming of a Bedlington Terrier requires specific tools and equipment. Here are the essential items needed:
Brushes and Combs
A slicker brush and a wide or medium-toothed comb are necessary for grooming a Bedlington Terrier. The slicker brush helps remove tangles and mats, while the comb clears the coat.
Clippers and Scissors
Clippers trim the hair on the head, ears, legs, and tail. A #30 blade is recommended for the show clip, while a #40 blade is optional. Scissors are used to cut out long, unruly hairs and for finishing touches. Straight, long scissors, curved scissors, blenders, and thinning shears are all useful tools for grooming a Bedlington Terrier.
Shampoos and Conditioners
Quality shampoo and conditioner are important for maintaining the Bedlington Terrier’s coat. Look for products that are specially formulated for curly or wiry hair. Using a detangler and a leave-in conditioner is also important to keep the coat looking its best.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grooming a Bedlington Terrier
Bathing and Drying
Bathing a Bedlington Terrier is an important part of grooming. It helps remove the coat’s dirt, grime, and excess oils. Here are the steps to follow when bathing your Bedlington Terrier:
- Brush the coat to remove any mats or tangles.
- Wet the coat with warm water.
- Apply dog shampoo to the coat and lather well.
- Rinse the coat thoroughly with warm water.
- Apply conditioner to the coat and leave it on for a few minutes.
- Rinse the coat thoroughly with warm water.
After bathing, it is essential to dry the coat completely. Use a towel to remove excess water and a blow dryer on a low heat setting to dry the coat.
Brushing and Combing
Based on observation, brushing and combing are essential for keeping the Bedlington Terrier’s coat in good condition. Here are the steps to follow when brushing and combing your Bedlington Terrier:
- Brush the coat with a slicker brush to remove any mats or tangles.
- Use a metal comb to comb the coat and remove any remaining tangles.
- Use scissors or clippers to trim excess hair around the ears, paws, and tail.
Clipping and Trimming
Clipping and trimming are important for maintaining the Bedlington Terrier’s unique appearance. Here are the steps to follow when clipping and trimming your Bedlington Terrier:
- Use clippers with a No. 5 blade to clip down the sides of the neck to the shoulders.
- Clip from the neck to the breastbone.
- Use scissors to blend in the scissored and clipped edges.
- Clip along the body and down the rib cage, leaving a fringe of hair.
- Trim around the sides of the front feet, careful not to make the feet turn in or out.
- Trim the unique Bedlington front, wider between the legs at the chest and narrower at the elbows.
Ear and Nail Care
Ear and nail care are important for the health and comfort of your Bedlington Terrier. Here are the steps to follow when caring for your Bedlington Terrier’s ears and nails:
- Clean the ears with a cotton ball and ear cleaner.
- Trim the hair around the ears to prevent matting and infection.
- Trim the nails regularly to prevent them from becoming too long and causing discomfort.
Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Coat
Nutrition
Feeding your Bedlington Terrier a healthy diet is essential for maintaining a healthy coat. Ensure you provide your dog with high-quality food containing all the necessary nutrients. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are particularly important for a healthy coat. You can find these in fish, flaxseed, and other supplements. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps or human food, as this can cause weight gain and health problems.
Exercise
Regular exercise is not only important for your Bedlington Terrier’s overall health, but it also helps maintain a healthy coat. Exercise stimulates blood flow and helps distribute natural oils throughout the coat. Assure your dog has plenty of chances to run and play, whether in a fenced yard or on daily walks. Strive for at least 30 minutes of activity per day.
Regular Check-Ups
Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are necessary for maintaining your Bedlington Terrier’s health and coat. Your vet can detect any underlying health issues affecting your dog’s coat, such as allergies or thyroid problems. They can also recommend supplements or treatments to improve coat health. In addition, regular grooming appointments with a professional groomer can help keep your dog’s coat healthy and free of tangles and mats.
