Bedlington Terrier
Male: 7.7-10.4 kg, Female: 7.7-10.4 kg
Approximately 41 cm for males; 39 cm for females.
11-16 years
United Kingdom (Northumberland)
About the Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a graceful, lithe, and well-balanced dog, famously resembling a lamb due to its unique coat and pear-shaped head. Despite their gentle appearance, they possess the tenacity and bravery of a true hunter, a legacy of their history in the coal mines of Northern England. They are known for their distinctive arched loin and light, springy gait, which allows them to gallop at high speeds. In the home, Bedlingtons are loyal companions that tend to be quieter and less 'scrappy' than many other terrier breeds. They are deeply affectionate with their families and can be quite sensitive to their environment. Their non-shedding coat makes them a popular choice for owners with allergies, though their grooming requirements are more technical than most, requiring a specific 'Bedlington clip' to maintain their iconic silhouette.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
The Bedlington Terrier presents a unique silhouette in the ring, characterized by its pear-shaped head, glinting silken topknot, and the distinctive arch over the loin. Their movement is highly specific—a light, springy, and slightly mincing action at slower speeds, transitioning into a powerful, rhythmic gallop. The coat must feel 'linty,' a mixture of hard and soft hair that is not wiry.
In Australia
The Bedlington Terrier has been present in Australia since at least the late 19th century, with documented mentions in 1897. To further support the breed, the Bedlington Terrier Club of New South Wales was officially established in 1974.
Bred For
Originally bred for hunting vermin in mines, catching rabbits, and racing. They were favored by miners in the Bedlington area for their ability to dispatch foxes and badgers.
Temperament
Affectionate, spirited, and courageous; often described as having a lamb-like appearance but a lion's heart. They are intelligent and generally milder in temperament than other terriers.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Copper Toxicosis (a hereditary ), (), , and Renal Dysplasia.
Exercise Needs
Moderate to High.
Grooming Needs
High. Their unique 'linty' coat does not shed but requires professional clipping every 6-8 weeks and regular brushing to prevent matting.
Living Suitability
Highly adaptable. They can thrive in apartments if given sufficient daily exercise, but they also enjoy a secure backyard where they can sprint.
Good with Kids
Good with children, particularly older children who respect their boundaries. They are gentle but can be spirited during play.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs, but their high prey drive means they may chase smaller animals like cats unless socialized early.
Trainability
Moderately easy to train. They are intelligent and eager to please but can possess a typical terrier stubbornness and independence.
Coat & Colours
Thick and linty, standing well out from the skin, with a distinct tendency to twist, especially on the head and face.. Blue, liver, or sandy; may have tan markings (Blue and Tan, Liver and Tan, Sandy and Tan).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that Bedlington Terriers are more likely to experience Copper Toxicosis, a condition where copper builds up in the liver. This doesn't mean every Bedlington will develop it, especially with modern DNA testing available to breeders, but it highlights the importance of dietary management. Their 'linty' coat is beautiful but requires significant grooming; without professional clipping every few months, they can become prone to matting and skin irritations. As with many terriers, they possess a keen prey drive and may be prone to chasing, so a secure yard and a solid recall are essential. They can also be susceptible to ear infections due to their floppy, fringed ears, which can trap moisture and debris. Some Bedlingtons may exhibit a stubborn streak during training, but they respond wonderfully to positive, reward-based methods. While generally quiet, they can be vocal if they feel their territory is being encroached upon, making them excellent, albeit polite, watchdogs.
Feeding Guide for Your Bedlington Terrier
Healthy Weight
7.7-10.4 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
180-270 grams
For a healthy adult Bedlington weighing 9 kg, a daily intake of approximately 180-270 grams of fresh or raw food is recommended (2-3% of body weight). This should be split into two meals. Because of the breed's predisposition to Copper Toxicosis, the diet should be carefully formulated to ensure copper levels remain within safe limits, focusing on high-quality proteins like Majestik's kangaroo or beef, while being mindful of organ meat quantities.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, balanced diet low in copper is often recommended due to the breed's predisposition to copper accumulation. Fresh and raw diets are excellent if mineral levels are strictly balanced.
The ideal raw diet for a Bedlington Terrier should consist of 80% lean muscle meat, 10% edible bone, and 10% organ meat, supplemented with pureed vegetables. Given the risk of Copper Toxicosis, protein sources like Majestik's Kangaroo or White Fish are excellent lean options. Owners should be cautious with high-copper organ meats like beef liver; while essential, these should be strictly balanced. Majestik's Beef or Lamb blends can provide the necessary fats and nutrients for their active lifestyles, provided the overall mineral balance is monitored by a specialist.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Bedlington Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Bedlington Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Oldest Recorded
18 years
Average Litter Size
3-6 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.