If you’re in the market for a new furry friend but you don’t want your clothes or your furniture covered in pet hair, the unique and dynamic Bedlington Terrier might just be the dog for you!
One of the defining traits of the Bedlington Terrier is its curly, woolly coat of fur that’s as soft as lamb’s wool. Its haystack-styled look is like no other. Like a lamb, these dogs bear a striking resemblance to sheep, yet they carry the heart of a lion. Fierce and faithful, Bedlington Terriers are fantastic companions. But the million-dollar question remains: Do Bedlington Terriers shed a lot? Brace yourself, because the answer might surprise you!
The Bedlington Terrier is known as a “low-shedding” breed, but that doesn’t mean they are entirely non-shedding. They lose a minimal amount of hair throughout the entire year, but this is barely noticeable. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed — one that’s less likely to trigger allergic reactions and keeps your lint roller from working overtime — then this one is a terrific choice.
But don’t reach for your wallet just yet! There’s plenty more to learn about this fascinating breed of dog.
The Bedlington Terrier is one of the oldest Terrier breeds, originating from the mining town of Bedlington, Northumberland, in Northeast England. Miners initially bred these dogs as hardworking rat catchers. But their unusual looks, docile manner, and excellent performance in dog sports quickly gained popularity outside the mines, leading them to be adored as companions for both nobles and commoners alike.
Though they have roots as working dogs, don’t let that misguide you. Bedlingtons are far from labor-intensive in terms of maintenance, despite their luxurious coats. Their distinctive coat requires regular grooming, but it’s not on the same scale as other furry breeds, like the Poodle or Shih Tzu. A good brush once or twice a week will keep their fur looking top-notch and tangle-free, with occasional trims needed every few months to keep their signature silhouette intact.
Even better, the slick, puppy-like hair of the Bedlington Terrier doesn’t carry the typical doggie odor. The hairs are really more like ‘furwool,’ which is unique among dog breeds. ‘Furwool’ is a mix of harsh and soft hair, and it’s this blend that gives the Bedlington Terrier its uniquely curly yet plush coat, which remarkably repels dirt and odors.
To put it in simple terms, the amount your Bedlington will shed is notably less than the average dog but a bit more than breeds known for their hypoallergenic properties, such as the Bichon Frise or Maltese.
However, a low-shedding coat doesn’t mean you’re off the hook when it comes to allergies. If you or someone in your family is allergic to dogs, you should spend time around a Bedlington Terrier (or any breed you’re considering adopting) before making the commitment. The dander, not the actual hair of dogs, is usually the culprit for those pesky allergic reactions.
In addition to their non-shedding coats, Bedlington Terriers are highly intelligent, energetic, and tenacious yet affectionate and loyal, making them fantastic pets for families and individuals alike. They also love to perform tricks to entertain their human family members and are quick to pick up training when given positive reinforcement.
However, like every breed, Bedlington Terriers are not for everyone. They require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and they can have a bit of a stubborn streak. But with the attitude of a terrier and the elegance of a lamb, this breed definitely stands out in a crowd.
So, if your concern is about shedding, you can sit back, relax, and let the Bedlington Terrier charm you with its adorable, hypoallergenic presence. After all, owning one of these minimal-shedders means you get the best of both worlds — a loving companion and a house free of pet hair clouds!
In the end, actually, the most considerable amount of cleaning you might be doing with a Bedlington Terrier is picking up the toys they’ve scattered around the house after a lively play session, not fighting the fight against pet hair.
So, the next time someone asks you, “Does a Bedlington Terrier shed a lot?” You can confidently say, “No. In fact, this remarkable breed is known for its low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat!”
Adopting a dog is a wonderful decision, but it should be made with a full understanding of the breed you’re deciding on. We hope this information helps you make an informed decision, whether you’re looking for your next best four-legged friend or if you’re merely broadening your canine knowledge.
Remember, no dog is precisely 100% hypoallergenic, but a Bedlington Terrier comes pretty close, which gives you more time to enjoy lighter moments with your furry friend and less time fretting about shedding. The Bedlington Terrier really is proof that great things come in small, non-shedding packages!