Of the thirty-three terrier breeds (most of whom were first used for hunting vermin and therefore now have an innately spirited and aggressive character with a tendency to chase moving creatures and objects), the Bedlington Terrier is one of the most persistent. This is not surprising to us if we consider it is one of the progenitors of the terrier group, one that has survived the longest, that is.
As far back as 1702, observers were noting in their journals descriptions of the Bedlington Terrier. For instance, one nobleman visiting another joins a hunt that passes a gypsy camp in Rothbury, in the Hanny Hills of England . He describes the dog renown for its hunting prowess as one with the «red of brick» coat, the feet like a rabbit»s, and the toenails not of those like other dogs» but of those of cats. Much study and deduction brings the lord to believe this animal is of a Hungarian Greyhound and Rough Scotch Terrier mix, inferences that once he records will become our first information and description of the Bedlington Terrier.
Yet, the gypsy Bedlington Terrier is no scrounging, wandering breed today. While still intelligent and a great hunting dog with great sporting and gaming characteristics, it is also a most dignified breed that shows none of the edgy, nervous, or shy temperament traits other terrier breeds show.
At the same time, the needs of the Bedlington Terrier are more involved than those of other terrier breeds. This 15-17 inch, 17-23 pound terrier needs space from cats and dominating dogs; needs little space to move about but needs a good amount of exercise (as it is very active); and needs regular (5 minutes a day) brushing, a cleaning of the ears of any blocking hair (which can cause frequent ear and eye infections), and a clipping every six weeks.
But the wayward lamb of the 18th century is worth the care and love. For the Bedlington Terrier, capable of great speeds and great pursuit on the hunt, is also adept at being one of the most relaxed companions. Persistent in its ancestral youth, surviving the wild, it deserves the pampering it requires today.
