Description
This unique breed has a lamb-like look about it, but don’t be fooled: this North Country dog is a terrier through and through. Originally his role was to catch rabbits for the family pot, and a sporting dog he still remains.
It is claimed that the Bedlington can boast a longer traceable pedigree than any other terrier. Hailing from the former mining areas of the north of England, he was once known as the Rothbury Terrier. His fame spread outside his native region and an association was started for the breed in 1877.
One of the features peculiar to this breed is the coat, which is described as ‘linty’, and his neat outline does require regular trimming. His expression may be mild, but he is quite capable of fending for himself, although he will not seek a scrap. He is a tough little dog, good in the house, and makes a delightful family pet.
The Terrier Breed Group
Dogs originally bred and used for hunting vermin. 'Terrier' comes from the Latin word Terra, meaning earth. This hardy collection of dogs were selectively bred to be extremely brave and tough, and to pursue fox, badger, rat and otter (to name but a few) above and below ground. Dogs of terrier type have been known here since ancient times, and as early as the Middle Ages, these game breeds were portrayed by writers and painters.