The Bedlington Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in England. It has been described as a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ due to its terrier nature and lamb like appearance.

Bedlington Terriers have a unique look among dog breeds, that is, they look more lambish than dog. They are a small breed, weighing in at 17-23 pounds and are 15-17 inches tall. Their heads are pear-shaped, narrow, yet deep and rounded. They have a deep chest and their back is arched, with longer back legs than front. Their ears are triangular and low set with rounded tips; their tails are left long are scimitar-shaped. They have a thick double coat that is a mixture of hard and soft hair. Puppies are born darker colors that will change as they grow older, black or silver to blue, dark brown to sandy/liver. Some Bedlington Terriers have tan points.

The exact ancestry of the Bedlington Terrier remains unknown, although it is widely accepted that it has existed in the area of Rothbury, England since at least the 1800s. Several breeds have been suggested as their ancestors, including the Whippet, Otterhound, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers. The name Rothbury Terrier was originally used to describe terriers that were kept by Gypsies living in Rothbury forest and it is likely that today’s dog stems from there, although the aforementioned breeds may have been used in the Rothbury’s creation. The name Bedlington was chosen in 1825 after the Bedlington Mining Shire, where many of these dogs were kept for hunting and ratting. Prey included rats, rabbits, otter, polecats, foxes, and badgers – proving the Bedlintong Terrier has teeth.

The Bedlington Terrier is in general calmer than most other terriers. They are intelligent and fearless, as well as loyal to their family. They get along well with children and cats (provided they were raised with them), but some can show aggression towards dominate dogs. This is a breed that likes to dig and can easily give in to a chase. It is important to make sure that an area is secure before letting a Bedlington Terrier off leash.

The lifespan of a Bedlington Terrier is 14-15 years; they are prone to Copper Storage Disease, heart murmurs and eye problems.

This breed can adapt easily to apartment life as long as it gets regular exercise. It is also important to keep them stimulated mentally, as a bored dog can turn destructive.

Although a Bedlington Terrier sheds little hair their coat requires a trip to the groomer every 6-8 weeks to be clipped.