Who would’ve thought that a canine with all the charm and grace of a lamb could possess a fiery courage fit for a lion? Brace yourselves as we dive into the world of the Bedlington Terrier, a breed unbeknownst to many.
Imagine, if you will, a fluffy white cloud that’s always eager to play and please you. At first glance, these adorable dogs seem to have descended straight from a child’s plush toy collection. Little does everyone know that these gentle-looking pups are nuclear powerhouses of energy and zest.
A compact body of about 16 inches tall, known for their unusual lamb-like appearance, each Bedlington Terrier houses an iron will wrapped up in a cotton ball. Shrouded beneath their tender curled up topknot, lies a heritage of coal-mining and rat-catching from Northumberland, England. Quite a tale for a pooch, isn’t it?
But don’t let their cuddly charm and graceful trot fool you. Though they score high on the cute and adorable scale, to answer our looming question – are they difficult to own?
Well, that depends on how you perceive the term ‘difficult.’ If a lively, spirited and alert companion is what you seek, then the Bedlington Terrier may just prove an amusing challenge rather than a difficulty.
However, inexperienced individuals or families with a quieter lifestyle may find their high-spirited antics a bit overwhelming. Let’s delve deep and dissect the traits and temperament of these fascinating furballs.
1. High Energy – a Blessing or a Curse?
You’d think a dog looking fit for a part in “Little Bo-Peep” would be calm and docile, right? Wrong. Don’t be fooled by their lamb-like hairdos. Bedlingtons, despite their angelic appearance, come with a rocket-launcher level of energy. From catch to tag, and even swimming – they are always on the go.
The true difficulty lies not in their energy, but how you channel it. If you have a garden to frolic in or able to provide them with daily workout opportunities, they won’t turn your cushions into fluff-clouds or zoom around your living room. Emphasize various engaging tasks, like different fetching games or agility exercises, and you’ll find they are less ‘difficult’ and more ‘exciting.’
2. Intelligence Personified
Bedlingtons are smart, and they’ve got a mind of their own. Their remarkable trainability, combined with these traits, could either make them a wonderful pet or a cunning menace.
For example, a Bedlington quickly learns the sound of a biscuit jar opening. Add to it their irresistible gaze and before you know it, they might trick you into an extra serving. Being firm in their training, while also nurturing their intellect with puzzle toys and brain games, successfully tames their cunning nature.
3. An Ingrained Hunting Spirit
Bred as a working dog in mines, a hint of their hunting and chasing instincts still linger. Towards other small animals, they may show an unyielding chase drive. This might sometimes seem ‘difficult’ for owners with other small pets in the house.
Socializing them from an early age, or implementing a strong ‘recall’ command, can help. Even in a heavily squirrel-populated park, your Bedlington can learn to respond to you before bolting behind the critters.
4. Grooming – The Fluffy Fleece
One of the striking features of a Bedlington is their thick, fleecy fur. This, however, also awards them the ‘high-maintenance’ title. Typically, they require professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to maintain their iconic appearance. If you are handy with grooming tools, you can learn to do this at home, saving on grooming fees and time.
5. Health Concerns – An Issue to Consider
Just like any breed, Bedlingtons are prone to certain health issues, such as Copper Toxicosis. As a potential owner, the challenge lies in finding a responsible breeder who screens for these conditions, ensuring you a healthy furry companion.
So, when it comes down to it, is a Bedlington Terrier a difficult dog? The answer – it depends. With their high spirits, sharp wit, and demanding grooming needs, they might seem a handful. But to those who appreciate their unique energy, intelligence, and matchless charm, the Bedlington Terrier simply offers a unique brand of canine companionship that’s anything but difficult to love.
After all, they are more than just an unusual haircut. They are a bundle of joy, courage, and love, literally bursting at their curly seams. Bedlington Terrier’s qualities, both challenging and rewarding, are what make them stand out as an endearing, irresistible pet choice for the right households. Remember, owning a dog isn’t about adjusting them to our life but molding our lives to fit theirs.
