The Blue Bedlington Terrier is a rare and beautiful breed, known for its distinctive blue coat and friendly personality. They are a relatively small dog, weighing between 10-17 pounds.
To care for a Blue Bedlington Terrier puppy, you'll need to provide regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. Brushing their coat daily will help keep it looking its best.
Blue Bedlington Terriers are intelligent and active dogs that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of playtime or walking per day.
These puppies are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them a great addition to families with children. They are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to training, as they are eager to please their owners.
Physical Characteristics
The blue Bedlington Terrier is a stunning breed with a unique appearance. They have a well-balanced body and a gentle nature.
Their coat is a key characteristic, being low shedding and requiring regular grooming to prevent matting. This makes them a great choice for families with allergies or who prefer less dog hair.
In terms of size, blue Bedlington Terriers are a medium-sized breed, but their energy level is anything but medium. They require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Here are some key physical characteristics of the blue Bedlington Terrier:
Overall, the blue Bedlington Terrier is a lively and playful breed that requires regular attention and exercise to thrive.
Grooming
Blue Bedlington Terrier puppies are a delight to have around, but they do require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coats. They come in various colors, including blue, sandy, and liver.
Their crisp hair is a mix of both soft and harsh hair, but not wiry, making them a great choice for those with allergies since they don't shed very much. However, their hair does grow very quickly, and will need to be groomed approximately every two months.
To achieve their unique look, their face will need to be hand-scissored, and their coat will need to be brushed and/or combed once or twice a week. Regular brushing at home helps to prevent matting and keeps their coat healthy.
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As with all dogs, Bedlingtons need basic grooming, including having their nails trimmed often, teeth brushed daily, and ears checked and cleaned regularly. Their ears are unique in shape and hair distribution, and need to be trimmed as well to neaten up the ear tassels.
If you plan to enter your blue Bedlington into a conformity dog show, you’ll need to have your dog professionally groomed to meet the dog show standards. Regular grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is also recommended to maintain their coat's appearance and prevent matting.
Regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal, but if you can’t manage that, just do it as often as you can.
Health and Nutrition
As a responsible Bedlington Terrier owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your furry friend. Copper Toxicosis is a genetic disease that can cause copper toxins to build up in the liver, making your dog chronically ill.
Bedlington Terriers are prone to certain eye problems, including Cataracts, which can cause blindness due to a clouding of the lens of the eye. This is a common issue in this breed.
Luxating Patella, also known as kneecap dislocation, is another condition that can affect Bedlington Terriers. This can cause your dog to kick their leg to try to pop the kneecap back in place.
Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia can also affect Bedlington Terriers, leading to lameness in the affected joints. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help maintain healthy joints.
Some common health issues in Bedlington Terriers include Hypothyroidism, which can cause lethargy and weight gain, and Von Willebrand disease, which can cause problems with blood clotting.
Here's a list of some of the common health issues that can affect Bedlington Terriers:
- Copper Toxicosis
- Luxating Patella
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Von Willebrand disease
- Dry Eye (KCS)
- Retinal Dysplasia
- Distichiasis
It's essential to work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your dog's health and catch any potential issues early on. Regular check-ups and a balanced diet can go a long way in keeping your Bedlington Terrier happy and healthy.
Training and Exercise
Training and exercise are crucial for blue Bedlington terrier puppies to grow into well-behaved and happy adult dogs. Early socialization is key to developing good manners and confidence in different situations.
They can be stubborn, but Bedlington terriers are also intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to training. Consistent and patient training methods are essential to bringing out the best in this breed.
Positive reinforcement techniques, such as using treats and praise, work best with Bedlington terriers. Interactive games and puzzles can keep them engaged and focused during training sessions.
A daily walk or fetch session lasting 30 minutes, supplemented with a couple of runs or hikes a week, is sufficient exercise for Bedlington terriers. This can be adjusted as they grow and mature, with a gradual increase in exercise levels from 5 minutes per month of age to one to one and a half hours per day.
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Training
Training a Bedlington Terrier requires patience and consistency, as they can be stubborn at times. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop good manners and become well-rounded adults.
Exposing your puppy to different people, animals, and environments will help them feel comfortable and confident in various situations. This will also ensure they get along with other pets, including cats, in the home.
Because of their background in dog fighting, it's essential to train and socialize your Bedlington to get along well with other dogs. You don't want your dog to become aggressive when meeting another dog, including other Bedlingtons.
Harsh training methods or physical correction are not effective with this breed, as it may lead to a battle of wills with your dog. Instead, positive reinforcement techniques, such as offering praise and treats as rewards, work best with Bedlington Terriers.
Incorporating interactive games and puzzles into their training sessions can keep your Bedlington engaged and focused. They enjoy mental challenges, making training sessions a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your dog.
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Dog Exercise Needs
Bedlington Terriers need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They require about one to one and a half hours of exercise per day.
A daily walk or fetch session lasting 30 minutes is a good starting point, supplemented with a couple of runs or hikes a week. This can be adjusted as your dog grows and matures.
As a general rule, Bedlington pups can get 5 minutes of exercise per month of age once or twice a day. By around 12-15 months old, they should be able to handle the full exercise levels of an adult Bedlington.
Fun, mental stimulating games can entertain and tire an active pup, making them a great addition to your dog's exercise routine.
Owning a Blue Bedlington Terrier
Owning a Blue Bedlington Terrier is a big decision, and it's essential to consider the costs involved. Expect to pay a breeder, on average, $2,500 for a purebred Bedlington terrier puppy, depending on the dog's lineage.
Before you decide to bring a Blue Bedlington Terrier home, you should also think about whether you're ready to commit to dog sports or just want a pet. Getting Started in Dog Sports can be a great way to bond with your new furry friend, but it requires a lot of time and energy.
If you do decide to bring a Blue Bedlington Terrier home, you should also consider adopting from a rescue organization. The national rescue group for Bedlington terriers, the Bedlington Terrier Club of America, can provide online resources to help you find your new best friend.
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Compatibility with Other Pets
Owning a Blue Bedlington Terrier can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to consider their compatibility with other pets. They don't care for other dogs and often fight with dogs of their kind.
Living with multiple dogs can be chaotic, and it's best if your Blue Bedlington Terrier is the only dog in the household. If you must live with another dog, it's best if the other dog is of the opposite sex.
In fact, their strong will and independent nature can make them a bit challenging to live with in a multi-dog household.
Prospective Owners
If you're considering bringing a Blue Bedlington Terrier into your family, the first step is to choose your breed. This adorable breed has a unique appearance and loving personality, making them a great addition to many families.
The Blue Bedlington Terrier is a wonderful companion for many reasons. Getting a dog can bring immense joy and companionship to your life, and this breed is no exception.
To ensure you find a healthy and well-socialized puppy, it's essential to find a responsible breeder. Look for breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and provide proper care and socialization from an early age.
Getting started in dog sports can be a fun and rewarding experience for you and your dog. Many Blue Bedlington Terriers excel in agility and obedience training, making them a great choice for active owners.
As you prepare to bring your new puppy home, it's essential to learn all about puppies and their needs. This will help you provide the best possible care and create a strong bond with your new companion.
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Owning Essentials
Owning a Blue Bedlington Terrier requires some essential items to ensure their comfort and happiness.
A good quality dog bed is a must-have, as Blue Bedlington Terriers are prone to joint issues and need a comfortable place to rest.
Their short coats require regular grooming, so a brush and nail clippers are necessary tools to keep them clean and well-maintained.
A sturdy collar with identification tags is crucial in case your dog ever gets lost.
Their high energy levels mean they need plenty of exercise, so a secure, fenced area for playtime is a must.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health, particularly for potential eye problems.
Adopt/Buy Pets
Adopting a Blue Bedlington Terrier can be a rewarding experience, and it's a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. You can check your local animal shelters and rescue groups for Bedlington terriers who are waiting for a forever home.
Bedlington terriers are a rare breed, so it may be challenging to find one in a rescue situation. However, the Bedlington Terrier Club of America can provide online resources to help you find your new best friend.
Expect to pay a breeder, on average, $2,500 for a purebred Bedlington terrier puppy, depending on the dog's lineage. This cost includes the puppy's health, temperament, and genetic background.
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Diet and Nutrition
You'll want to feed your blue Bedlington terrier puppy a balanced and high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Feed them four times a day initially, then gradually reduce to three, and finally to two meals a day at six months old.
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It's essential to monitor calorie consumption and weight closely, especially since Bedlington terriers can become overweight. Be sure to follow the 10% rule for offering treats to avoid weight gain.
Fresh water should always be available for your pup to stay hydrated. A commercially-prepared or home-prepared high-quality dog food is suitable for Bedlington terriers, but be sure to consult with a veterinarian for a well-balanced homemade diet.
As your blue Bedlington terrier grows, you can gradually change from puppy to adult food at around 12 months old, but consult with your pet food supplier and/or vet for individual advice. Regular exercise is also crucial to maintain your pup's overall health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
How expensive are Bedlington Terriers?
Bedlington Terriers typically cost between $1,800 and $2,300. Adopting from a rescue or shelter can be a more affordable option, with costs varying depending on the organization.
What is the temperament of a blue Bedlington Terrier?
Known for their friendly and loyal nature, blue Bedlington Terriers are playful, gentle, and loving companions suitable for families with children
What is the difference between blue and liver Bedlington Terriers?
Blue Bedlington Terriers have a black nose and eye rim, with dark brown eyes and light grey skin, while Liver Bedlington Terriers have brown nose and eye pigment, with hazel brown eyes. This difference affects their overall appearance, making each type unique.
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