Terrier group · Small

Bedlington Terrier

Lamb-shaped terrier — surprisingly fast and tenacious.

Apartment FriendlyLow SheddingHypoallergenic-ishFamily DogLoyalCharmingInquisitive

Puppy.College Rating73/ 100

Weight

17–23 lbs

Height

15–17.5 in

Lifespan

11–16 years

Exercise

60–90 minutes/day

Origin

Multiple regions historically

First-time owner

4/5

Overview

Lamb-shaped terrier — surprisingly fast and tenacious.

The Bedlington Terrier is a small breed in the Terrier group, typically standing 15–17.5 in and weighing 17–23 lbs. Expect a lifespan of 11–16 years with good preventive care. Personality is best described as loyal, charming, inquisitive.

Breed history & origin

The Bedlington Terrier traces its origins to Multiple regions historically. Its original purpose — dispatch vermin on farms and in cities — shaped almost every physical and temperamental trait still visible in the breed today.

As a small member of the Terrier group, the Bedlington Terrier was selectively bred for independent decision-making, high stamina, and working drive. Modern owners describe them as loyal, charming, inquisitive — qualities deeply rooted in that working heritage.

The breed is recognised by all major kennel clubs in the Terrier group, with a written standard codifying its silhouette, gait, and temperament.

Today the Bedlington Terrier thrives as a spirited companion. It remains one of the more recognisable breeds at North American dog shows and in homes across Canada and the United States, where its combination of loyal and family-suitability continues to draw new owners every year.

Like every purebred, the Bedlington Terrier carries genetic risks tied to its small founding gene pool. Conscientious modern breeders screen for the conditions listed in the health section below and breed for longevity, structural soundness, and stable temperament — the three pillars of a responsibly preserved breed.

Origin snapshot

Country of origin: Multiple regions historically
Era: Historic
Original purpose: Dispatch vermin on farms and in cities
Modern purpose: Spirited companion

Breed timeline

Historic
Bedlington Terrier develops in Multiple regions historically
20th century
Formal kennel club recognition in the Terrier group
Today
Established as a spirited companion

Appearance

Male

Height

16–18 in

Weight

18–24 lbs

Female

Height

14–16 in

Weight

16–21 lbs

Coat length: Long
Coat texture: Tight single coat
Undercoat: None / minimal
Body: Compact, agile build

Temperament

Bedlington Terriers are loyal, charming, inquisitive. With early socialization and positive-reinforcement training in the critical 8–16 week window, they grow into well-adjusted adults that fit a wide range of households.

Exercise & activity

Adult Bedlington Terriers need 60–90 minutes/day, split between leashed walks and off-leash play. Under-exercised dogs of this breed are the #1 source of behaviour complaints — chewing, barking, and pulling.

Grooming & shedding

Bedlington Terriers are high-maintenance coats. Plan on daily brushing and a professional groom every 4–6 weeks.

Minimal shedding — one of the cleaner breeds to live with.

Nutrition guide

Feed a high-quality small-breed puppy formula with calorie-dense kibble in tiny pieces. Bedlington Terrier puppies thrive on 3 measured meals per day until 6 months, then 2 meals. Look for AAFCO statements naming "growth" or "all life stages," and skip filler-heavy grocery brands.

Puppy nutrition

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

Adult nutrition

Adult Bedlington Terriers do well on a high-quality kibble (≥ 25% protein, ≤ 15% fat) split into two meals. Free-feeding is the #1 cause of obesity in this breed.

Senior nutrition

From age 8, transition to a senior formula with glucosamine/chondroitin and reduced calories.

Daily calories (adult)

350–600 kcal/day

Common allergies: Most common triggers in this breed: chicken, beef, dairy, wheat. A novel-protein diet (duck, salmon, venison) helps if itching or GI issues persist.

Never feed:

• Grapes & raisins
• Chocolate
• Onions & garlic
• Xylitol (peanut butter labels!)
• Cooked bones
• Macadamia nuts

Training guide

Housebreaking

Crate-train from day 1. Bedlington Terrier puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Crate training

Use a crate just large enough to stand and turn around. Never use it as punishment. Most Bedlington Terriers accept the crate within 2 weeks with kong-and-meal pairing.

Obedience

Bedlington Terriers have an independent streak. Keep sessions ≤ 5 minutes, very high-value rewards, and end on a win.

Socialisation

Critical window is 8–16 weeks. Aim for 100 new people, 50 new dogs, and 25 new environments before 4 months — vaccinated, controlled, positive exposures only.

Advanced training

Focus on rock-solid basics first; advanced sports work best from 18+ months with this breed.

Common mistakes to avoid

×Skipping puppy class because the dog ‘seems fine’
×Using punishment for fear-based behaviour (escalates it)
×Repeating the cue word — say it once, then enforce
×Free-feeding (kills food motivation for training)

Health database

Lifespan: 11–16 years. Below are the conditions vets most commonly screen for in this breed — for education only, always consult your veterinarian.

Hip dysplasia risk

Lower than average

Elbow dysplasia risk

Low

Eye disease risk

Standard screening recommended

Cancer risk

Average

Dental risk

Elevated — small breeds prone to crowding and tartar

Annual vet cost

$400–$700 CAD

Common health concerns

▸Dental disease
▸Obesity (over-feeding)
▸Patellar luxation

Recommended screening

▸Patella evaluation
▸CERF / OFA eye exam
▸Cardiac auscultation
▸Skin & coat dermatology check

Educational only — always consult your veterinarian.

Living requirements

Apartment: Excellent
House: Yes — ideal
Urban: Strong
Rural / farm: Strong
Cold weather: Average — needs a jacket below freezing
Hot weather: Tolerant
Barking level: Above average
Separation anxiety: Above average — bred for human company
Escape risk: Average
Space: Apartment-friendly

Cost of ownership (Canada)

Reputable Canadian breeders typically charge $1,500–$2,800 for a Bedlington Terrier puppy. Plan for $1,600–$2,600 in annual cost of ownership covering food, vet visits, insurance, training, and grooming.

Puppy purchase

$1,500–$2,800

Annual all-in

$1,600–$2,600

Insurance

$45–$90 / month CAD

Pros & cons

Pros

+Excellent with children and other family pets
+Adapts well to apartments and condo living
+Low shedding — easier on furniture and allergies
+Great hiking, running, and adventure companion
+Travel-friendly size; fits under airline seats and in small homes

Cons

−High grooming costs — professional groom every 4–6 weeks

Ideal owner profile

First-time ownersFamilies with kidsActive / outdoorsy ownersApartment & condo dwellers

Fun facts

1.Bedlington Terriers live 11–16 years on average with good preventive care.
2.Adults stand 15–17.5 in and weigh 17–23 lbs.
3.Daily exercise needs: 60–90 minutes/day.
4.Classified in the Terrier group.

Bedlington Terrier vs popular breeds

Trait	Bedlington Terrier	Labrador Retriever	Golden Retriever	German Shepherd	French Bulldog	Poodle (Standard)
Size	Small	Large	Large	Large	Small	Large
Lifespan	11–16 years	11–13 years	10–12 years	9–13 years	10–12 years	10–18 years
Energy	4/5	5/5	4/5	5/5	2/5	4/5
Trainability	3/5	5/5	5/5	5/5	3/5	5/5
Family-friendly	4/5	5/5	5/5	4/5	4/5	5/5
Apartment	4/5	2/5	2/5	2/5	5/5	3/5
Shedding	1/5	4/5	4/5	5/5	3/5	1/5
Exercise	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	20–40 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day

Frequently asked

Bedlington Terrier — 30 questions answered.

Are Bedlington Terriers good family dogs?+

Yes — Bedlington Terriers score 4/5 for family friendliness and are widely considered one of the better breeds for households with children.

Are Bedlington Terriers good for first-time owners?+

Yes — they rank 4/5 for first-time suitability.

How much exercise does a Bedlington Terrier need?+

How much does a Bedlington Terrier puppy cost in Canada?+

Reputable Canadian breeders charge $1,500–$2,800 for a well-bred Bedlington Terrier puppy. Adoption through breed-specific rescues runs $400–$900.

What's the annual cost of owning a Bedlington Terrier?+

Plan for $1,600–$2,600 CAD per year covering food, vet care, insurance, training, and grooming.

Do Bedlington Terriers shed a lot?+

Minimal shedding — one of the cleaner breeds to live with.

Are Bedlington Terriers hypoallergenic?+

Bedlington Terriers are among the lower-allergen breeds, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

How long do Bedlington Terriers live?+

Typical lifespan is 11–16 years. Lean body weight and routine vet care add years.

What health problems are Bedlington Terriers prone to?+

Most commonly: Dental disease, Obesity (over-feeding), Patellar luxation. Buy from a breeder who screens for these and provides documentation.

Are Bedlington Terriers good apartment dogs?+

Yes — they adapt well to apartments when exercised daily.

How often should I groom my Bedlington Terrier?+

Bedlington Terriers are high-maintenance coats. Plan on daily brushing and a professional groom every 4–6 weeks.

How smart is a Bedlington Terrier?+

Bedlington Terriers rank 3/5 for trainability — in the average range. They learn best with short, motivated sessions.

Are Bedlington Terriers good with kids?+

Yes — patient and tolerant with children, especially when raised together. Always supervise toddler interactions.

Are Bedlington Terriers good with cats and other dogs?+

Generally yes, when socialised from puppyhood.

Can Bedlington Terriers be left alone?+

Bedlington Terriers bond closely with their people; 4 hours alone is a reasonable maximum for adults. Build alone-time slowly to prevent separation anxiety.

Do Bedlington Terriers bark a lot?+

Yes — Bedlington Terriers are vocal. Early ‘quiet’ training and enrichment reduce nuisance barking.

How big do Bedlington Terriers get?+

Adults typically stand 15–17.5 in and weigh 17–23 lbs.

What should I feed a Bedlington Terrier puppy?+

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

How many calories does an adult Bedlington Terrier need?+

Roughly 350–600 kcal/day for an average-activity adult. Active or working dogs need 20–40% more.

When does a Bedlington Terrier stop growing?+

By 9–12 months.

How do I housebreak a Bedlington Terrier?+

Crate-train from day 1. Bedlington Terrier puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Do Bedlington Terriers do well in cold weather?+

Average — needs a jacket below freezing

Do Bedlington Terriers tolerate hot weather?+

Tolerant

Are Bedlington Terriers good guard dogs?+

Yes — natural protective instincts and an imposing presence make them good watchdogs.

Do Bedlington Terriers like water and swimming?+

Variable — small breeds are at higher risk in water; use a life jacket.

Can Bedlington Terriers do agility or dog sports?+

Possible, but recall and focus take longer to develop in this breed.

Are male or female Bedlington Terriers better?+

No meaningful temperament difference at the breed level — individual personality, socialisation, and training matter far more than sex.

Should I get pet insurance for a Bedlington Terrier?+

Strongly recommended. Expect $45–$90 / month CAD for accident & illness coverage.

What questions should I ask a Bedlington Terrier breeder?+

Health clearances on both parents (hips, elbows, eyes, cardiac as applicable), the right to return the dog at any age, contract terms, references from previous puppy buyers, and a meet-and-greet with the dam.

Where can I adopt a Bedlington Terrier in Canada?+

Start with breed-specific rescues on Petfinder.ca and the Canadian Kennel Club's breed club referrals, then check provincial humane societies.

What's the difference between Canadian, American, and European Bedlington Terrier lines?+

Bloodlines differ in size, structure, and working drive. North American show lines are typically larger and calmer; European working lines are leaner and drivier. Ask the breeder which lines they breed and why.

Bedlington Terrier curriculum