Trainability

Like most historic vermin chasing dogs, the Bedlington is incredibly intelligent. This smartness can make them a little challenging to train to the unexperienced handler. The breed is known for their stubbornness. The key with training is to keep it fun and light. Only positive reinforcement is recommended with this breed, and any other dog breed. Harsh treatment will only ruin the bond between you and your dog and also make your canine companion stubborn and not willing to learn. Plenty of praise and games will ensure success. As with all breeds early socialisation is very important so consider as many sights, sounds and experiences as possible in young puppyhood. Being a terrier, on leash training is important to prevent your pup from running off and taking to ground at the smell of something interesting. This breed is energetic and enthusiastic and in the right hands can flourish into an incredible sport dog, or a wonderful jogging/hiking companion.

Grooming

The great news is the Bedlington is a very minimal shedding breed. However, they will require grooming and a spot of professional help to keep them looking their best. Owners will trim the hair on the body and legs for their trademark ‘lamb’ cut. They will need to be combed one a week to prevent mats, tangles and to check their skin and coat is in good condition. Nail clipping and a good dental regime is also recommended to keep them in top health. If you are unsure on how to care of your pup’s nails, ask your friendly veterinarian to demonstrate how to safely clip your pet’s nails at your next check-up.

Exercise Requirements

As a very smart terrier this dog loves to run and have a job to do. They can run at impressively high speeds so keeping off-leash runs inside a fenced area is suggested. This is most certainly a high energy breed and will benefit from a good brisk walk or run each morning followed by a safe off-leash flex or vigorous game of fetch each evening. If they are not able to have the correct amount of exercise you may attract some unwanted behaviours. They make great hiking companions and are only suited to an energetic family who enjoy getting out and about.

Intelligence

Being super-smart means your wee Bedlington can think for himself. Meaning if they are allowed to get bored, they will most certainly find something much more interesting to do. Being a terrier, they are known for digging. This trait can be trained out of the breed to some degree. Keeping them occupied when you are not at home can also help prevent digging. However, don’t be surprised if occasionally there is a wee-hole in your backyard. Being terriers, some dogs simply can not resist. For this reason, many owners have realised it is easier to train the ‘dig’ areas and the ‘no dig’ areas rather than completely abolish the behaviour entirely. Offer paddling pools full of sand and encourage your pup to only dig in sand and not in soil. Make gardens easy to identify and use raised garden beds if possible. Give you dog a ‘job’ to do when you are not at home to preventboredom.

Family Friendly

Like with most dog breeds – if socialised correctly and raised alongside little humans and other pets, the Bedlington makes and ideal family pet. Always teach your children how to correctly interact with a dog and train your dog how to correctly play with children. This breed can be super energetic, so care must be taken with smaller children who may get caught up in all the excitement. Remember the Bedlington has been specifically bred to take chase to small prey so even if raised with your friendly feline, your dog may take chase and not be able to resist the temptation.

Indoor/ Outdoor

The Bedlington is not an outdoor breed and can adjust to apartment living as long as they have adequate outside time and a place to stretch their legs and running capacity. They are impressive runners and will need a secure fenced area if spending time alone outside. Check fences regularly. Ensure you pet has adequate protection from all weather and ample water available. Like with all dogs, if your Bedlington is spending the day outdoors, they will be miserable being left for endless hours alone and may turn to their digging pleasure if bored. Ensure your return home is a greeted with a fun energetic game or a good run around the block.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.