The Bedlington Terrier is small and dainty, with a linty coat and distinctive arched loin and long head, and is often described as lamb-like in appearance.
Despite their graceful appearance, they are fast, efficient hunters developed to hunt otters and badgers. They are good-tempered dogs, who enjoy being part of a family. They will get on well with children and other animals that they have been raised with, although may require supervision around smaller animals due to their hunting instinct. They love to run and can be very fast, so should be allowed some off-lead exercise. Easy to train and with a non-shedding coat, these unique little dogs make a lively and loyal companion.
History
Named after a village in Northumberland, England, the Bedlington Terrier was used hundreds of years ago by farmers to hunt otters and badgers. Despite their elegant appearance, during the 1800s, they were used by the mining community as ratters in the coal mines. They also went on to be known as the Gypsy Dog due to their use by the Romani people as a poaching partner. Due to their courageous nature, Bedlingtons were also used in dogfights, cited against other small terriers. Fortunately, their charms and elegant appearance ensured that they went on to be lovable companions often favoured by the British elite.
