12 Things to Know Before Getting a Bedlington Terrier

Thinking about bringing home a Bedlington Terrier? I get it — their lamb-like look is absolutely charming. But beyond their unique appearance, these dogs come with specific needs and quirks you’ll want to know about before making that commitment. Let me walk you through what it’s really like living with a Bedlington Terrier.

That Famous “Lamb” Look Comes With Grooming Needs

Yes, they really do look like little lambs, especially with that curly, poodle-like coat. But don’t let the cute factor fool you — that coat needs regular upkeep. We trim ours every 6 to 8 weeks and brush once or twice a week to keep mats at bay. They barely shed, which is great for allergy sufferers, but low-shedding doesn’t equal low-maintenance. Occasional baths, regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care are all part of the routine.

Big Energy in a Petite Package

Bedlington Terriers are surprisingly athletic. Ours loves sprinting in open fields and doing agility runs. If you skip daily exercise, you'll probably find them entertaining themselves by chewing things they shouldn’t. Plan on at least 30 minutes of real activity — walks, fetch, agility drills, or even swimming. They do fine in apartments, as long as you keep their energy in check with exercise and mental stimulation (puzzle toys work wonders).

Smart, Trainable… and a Little Stubborn

Training a Bedlington can be a joy — they’re intelligent and eager to please — but they definitely have their own opinions. Stick to positive reinforcement: treats, praise, and play go a long way. Harsh corrections only make them dig in their heels. Be patient and consistent, and you’ll have a polite, responsive pup in no time.

Affectionate but Not Clingy

One of the things I love most is their balance — affectionate without being overly needy. They’re loyal, sweet with family (from kids to grandparents), but also independent enough to entertain themselves. That said, they can be wary around strangers, so early socialization is key.

Watch That Prey Drive

Bedlingtons were originally bred to hunt small game, and that instinct is still strong. Birds, squirrels, even neighborhood cats can trigger a chase. We learned fast to keep ours on-leash unless in a fully fenced area. If you have other small pets, think twice — or at least introduce everyone very carefully and supervise closely.

Barking and Separation Anxiety

They’re alert little watchdogs, which means they’ll bark at visitors, noises outside, or sometimes just because they’re bored. In a quiet neighborhood or an apartment, that can be a problem. Training commands like “quiet” and giving them plenty to do when you’re away helps a lot. Still, if left alone too long, they can get anxious — chewing, barking, or trying to escape. If you work long hours, this might not be the best solo pet for you.

Good With Kids, With Supervision

They’re usually great with children — playful and gentle — but like any dog, they should be supervised around toddlers. We always teach kids to be calm, gentle, and respectful (no ear pulling or chasing), and that sets the tone for a great relationship.

Health and Lifespan

On the whole, Bedlington Terriers are pretty healthy and can live 12–16 years. But they are prone to a few issues like:

• Copper Toxicosis (a liver disorder)
• Patellar luxation
• Hip dysplasia
• Eye problems like dry eye and distichiasis

Make sure to go through a reputable breeder who does health testing. Regular vet check-ups and a good diet will help you stay ahead of any problems.

They’re Surprisingly Versatile

From obedience and agility to therapy work, these dogs can do it all. Ours picked up agility in no time and absolutely loves the challenge. They might look dainty, but they have the heart (and energy) of a true working dog.

Bottom line? Bedlington Terriers are quirky, smart, and full of personality. They’re not the easiest dogs in the world — you’ll need to stay on top of grooming, exercise, and training — but if you’re up for it, they’re incredibly rewarding companions. Just make sure you’re ready to meet their needs before falling for that fuzzy face!