The Bedlington terrier is surely one of the most characteristic pets that exist. They could be mistaken for a sheep, but never for another breed of dog. This extraordinary, brave and resistant animal belonging to the small breeds, has a great curriculum among the existing canine jobs.
Today it has become a companion pet that professes great loyalty to its owners. It ranks at number forty on the list of the most intelligent dog breeds and has a history that details its origins in a well-documented way.
Origin and history
It is necessary for any Bedlington terrier owner to have a basic understanding of this little dog so that he does not get carried away by his lamb-like appearance. This dog has a brave heart and great temperament, this makes it an excellent choice as a pet.
The first Bedlington terrier on record was called Young Piper. His owner was Joseph Ainsley and he was his pet. Its owner always described it highlighting its extraordinary value. Piper was a good hunter of small prey like badgers.
A history of this dog was documented where saved a child from a pig. They say that he stood between the animal and the little one, controlling the situation until reinforcements arrived. Young Piper died at the age of fifteen.
The breed's origin as such dates back to a century before Piper's time in the Northumberland town of Bedlington.
This particular dog was adopted by miners, gypsies and other owners who always used their bravery and ferocity for the hunting small and dangerous prey. Within their darkest periods they are known to have been used in street dogfighting.
By the year 1875, the first Bedlington terrier Club and established the particularities of the race.
However, it is known that in those first dog shows the dog's coat was dyed and trimmed to keep it within the standards. It is not known for sure if the judges ignored or accepted this custom, but the Club ended up accepting the haircut to improve the contour of the body.
Characteristics of the Bedlington terrier
The first thing that catches the attention of this dog is its resemblance to sheep, this of course offers certain very important features.
The size of this pet ranges between 41 and 44 centimeters, being the 42 centimeters in cross the most accepted for the male. Females can measure between 38 and 42 centimeters, with a height of 39 cm at the cross being preferable. The weight has a range for both sexes between 7 and 10 kilograms.
The head has a completely rounded and narrow shape that goes from the forehead to the muzzle. It is covered in a silky fur almost always white or lighter in color than the rest of the coat.
The eyes are small and somewhat triangular. Colors vary depending on the tone of the pet they can be dark, blue and brown.
The jaw has a scissor bite with strong teeth and the neck is long and muscular giving it an upright and elegant appearance. The body is flexible and covered with strong muscles with a curved back.
The forelimbs and hindquarters are robust in appearance, the hindlimbs give the impression of being longer, the chest is flat and deep with a curve in the lower part of the anatomy, and the tail is also long, set low, thicker at the base than at the tip.
The coat of this breed is smooth and somewhat tight, fairly dense and smoother than rough, having a natural tendency to curl. The colors they present are three: black, blue and sand, some with flecks of fire. Its ride is light, flexible and elegant and when he runs he gives the feeling that he is galloping.
Temperament
Domestication has brought about significant changes when it comes to the character of this breed.
Its size and appearance have given it a place as a companion pet and stands out in dog shows. However, it is natural for its character to be very active, playful, somewhat nervous and impatient, so it is normal that it needs the guidance and conscious channeling of its owner.
His intelligence is remarkable so that with early training he can socialize with other animals. The most distinctive thing about his character is the stubbornness that makes him domineering and courageous. Physical activity has a decisive influence on your character so it is necessary that you expend energy regularly.
Health, hygiene and care
The Bedlington terrier is among the healthiest dog breeds that exist and is that they usually live from fifteen to twenty years of life. It is always necessary to go to the vet regularly and follow recommendations regarding vaccines, hygiene and nutritionAbove all, it is recommended to take special care of the ears, eyes and dental care.
The most common diseases these dogs have to deal with are cuprotoxicosis, which is a liver deficiency that can be complicated and very serious. Knee dislocation and allergies They are minor illnesses that owners should also be aware of regularly.
For the breed it is very important to take a daily walk to consume energy. The diet provided must be rich in proteins and fats such as Omega 3 and 6.
It is important to remember that they are mainly carnivorous animals and that if food such as fruits or vegetables are to be provided, it should be in an amount no greater than 15% of daily intake and under veterinary supervision.
With regard to the bath, this should be done every six or eight weeks always with products for the color tone of the coat. Care must be taken that there are no traces of moisture for which a dryer is used at a low temperature and a safe distance until it is completely dry.
Act quickly. brushing her hair once a week to avoid knots. The part of the cut is very important and although this breed does not shed much hair, it is necessary to take it to the hairdresser and have a professional do the treatment.
Due to the sensitivity of the skin moisturizers should be applied to a sensitive area post-cut.
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