Misconceptions are a common occurrence with just about every breed of dog in the canine world. Looking at the Bedlington Terrier, the most commonly noted attribute is their lamblike appearance. They are strong but slender and their curly coat gives them a softer appearance. This leads many to believe they are a gentle breed, docile and unassuming. Though this is true to a certain extent, the Bedlington shall always carry the feisty traits that come with being a terrier. Obedient as they can be, these former pit dogs do not back down from a challenge and have been known to fight to the death.
Curly haired dogs are often considered perfect for those with allergies or those who want a dog with a problem free coat that does not shed. While the curly coat of the Bedlington sheds very little, daily brushing will be required to keep it in good condition and prevent matting. An occasional stripping is still required over the course of a general coat care routine. Stripping hair is the process of gently plucking dead or blown hairs out of the coat using the fingers. The procedure is in no way painful for the dog and can be done by an owner or a professional. However, a professional is likely to have better tools and finish the process in a much quicker fashion.
Though they enjoy staying close to their owners, the Bedlington is an active breed that will need an active lifestyle. There will be no lounging around unless an owner wants to deal with the anxious chewing and barking of a bored dog. In fact, the distinctive composition to its front legs make it ideal for pivoting and turning at the most amazing speeds. This makes the Bedlington a perfect candidate for agility course training. Not only can they put their natural talents to good use, agility course trials are a great way to provide the mental and physical stimulation Bedlingtons require to stay healthy.
With their curly coat and loveable character, deciding to own a Bedlington Terrier is the easy part. However, finding one may end up being a rather daunting task. In the United States alone, the number of officially registered Bedlington puppies hovers at around two hundred at the most. This can mean having to get on a waiting list that is years long. That wait can be considerably longer should one decide to opt for a female. Because they are a dog that can have fatal problems with copper toxicosis, it is imperative that a Bedlington come from a reputable breeder. The breed is one that requires individuals know a good amount of knowledge about their physiology and getting a Bedlington from a backyard breeder can be a recipe for disaster.
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