The Bedlington Terrier is an intelligent and attentive breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
Formerly known as the Rothbury Terrier, the Bedlington was named for the small settlement of Bedlington in Northcumblerland County, England. While the exact origin of the breed was not well documented, it is thought that the first breeding pair of Bedlington Terrier were obtained by Joseph Ainsley of Bedlington in 1820.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Bedlington Terrier was commonly used to lure and kill small rodents such as badgers and rats.
The National Bedlington Terrier Club of England was established in 1877. The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1948 and finally, the American Kennel Club in 1967.
While the Bedlington Terrier has acquired many fans in underground circles, the breed remains somewhat rare and unknown world wide.
Personality Traits
Among the most trainable and intelligent of all Terrier breeds, the Bedlington Terrier loves to learn. This breed is known for being a problem solver, always curious and playful, even well into old age. The Bedlington Terrier is naturally obedient, affectionate, and loving to its owner.
Train-ability
The Bedlington Terrier is highly energetic, intelligent, and motivated, making these small dogs respond quickly to basic training and commands. This breed has the ability to learn most anything its trainer is willing to take the time to teach it.
As with any breed, establishing immediate dominance and trust is key to successfully training the Bedlington Terrier.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Bedlington Terrier. These small dogs remain playful and curious throughout their entire lives, and can be quite entertaining to watch when at play. This breed is intelligent and trainable, with ability and willingness to learn. The Bedlington Terrier typically gets along well with children and other pets, especially when properly socialized. This breed is affectionate, loving, and loyal, making an excellent family pet and companion alike. The Bedlington Terrier is excellent at capturing small rodent such as mice, opossums, rats, and snakes.
Unfortunately there are also disadvantages to owning a Bedlington Terrier. This energetic breed requires large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase a Bedlington Terrier lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing. A Bedlington Terrier not receiving the proper amount of exercise will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
Due to their instinct to catch small rodents, the Bedlington Terrier will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, these athletic dogs can be difficult to keep up with and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Bedlington Terrier must be leashed or properly secured at all times while outdoors.
This breed is known for its impressive coat, which requires almost constant attention, brushing, and grooming.
As previously mentioned, the Bedlington Terrier remains a somewhat rare breed world wide and can be difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed will often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
Sadly, the Bedlington Terrier is known to suffer from a wide array of health problems, including: hip dysplasia, urological problems such as kidney infection, various heart defects, eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, and Copper Storage Disease – a build up of copper in the liver, often fatal.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Bedlington Terrier? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/bedlington_terrier
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/bedlington_terrier
