Did you know the Bedlington Terrier was initially bred to hunt vermin in the coal mines of North East England? This egg-head shaped pup with a wooly coat doesn’t just have the appearance of a lamb, but it’s also known for its courage and tenacity. These traits make it an interesting character to evaluate as a potential guard dog. But does the Dog-breed known for its shape similar to that of an adorable lamb have what it takes to guard your home from potential threats? You might be surprised to learn how well this gentle, curly-coated breed stands up to the task!
The Bedlington Terrier, often mistaken for a lamb at first glance, boasts an elegant disposition with a certain spunk that adds to its charm. Don’t let its dainty appearance fool you, though. Behind those curly locks and docile exterior, there beats the heart of a lion. Once known as the “gypsy’s whippet,” this breed was famed for its speed and gaming skills. Its history can give us some insights into its guarding ability.
So, let’s delve into it and discover if a Bedlington Terrier has what it takes to be a guard dog.
When evaluating the Bedlington as a guard dog, the first thing to consider is their nature and instincts. Upon meeting a Bedlington Terrier, you’d be struck by their alert, attentive, and inquisitive nature. Their keen senses, combined with a fierce loyalty to their family, make them quick to respond to potential threats. When faced with danger, a flip switches, and their tenacity takes over, with their gentle nature momentarily visibly replaced with a fervor to protect their loved ones.
Bedlingtons are also known for their intelligence and quick learning ability, which are vital traits for a good guard dog. It’s all about what you make of their training. They can pick up on commands and understand situations swiftly, which makes them easy to train. You could teach them specific protective behaviors if they are not naturally protective, making them a nicely customizable guard dog option that suits your specific needs.
However, it’s important to note that they are generally not aggressive dogs. Bedlington terriers have a loving and gentle nature, making them great family pets. They are especially good around children, treating them with respect and affection. Their general lack of hostility towards people and other dogs might not make them the first choice for a guard dog but their alertness to their surrounding environment promises a Baseline level of security.
Now, a potential drawback you need to be aware of concerning Bedlingtons as guard dogs is their size. They are relatively small dogs, which might not be the most intimidating for a thief. But remember, size isn’t everything in a guard dog. Their fierce bark and surprising speed can be enough to deter burglars or alert you to a potential threat. After all, the goal of a guard dog isn’t necessarily to physically engage with an intruder, but to alarm their owners, and if necessary, hold off the intruder until help arrives.
Maintaining a Bedlington Terrier’s health and coat requires a fair bit of attention. Regular trims are needed to maintain its unique ‘lamb-like’ appearance and to prevent any skin issues. Ignoring this, however, could lead to their likelihood of developing skin diseases. Their lifespan is between 12-14 years which is considered to be quite decent for a dog breed.
In conclusion, the Bedlington Terrier can be a protective, alert watchdog and to a certain extent can be trained to take on more guard dog duties. They have the loyalty, tenacity, intelligence, and general make-up necessary for the guard dog task. However, bear in mind, their gentle nature and smaller size might not create a very large threat for a potential burglar.
If you’re looking for an uber aggressive dog breed to stand guard over your property with a snarl and intimidating size, the Bedlington Terrier may not be the best fit. However, If you want a loving, family-friendly dog with a decent watchdog attitude and the ability to be trained to perform more protective duties – don’t pass up on considering a Bedlington Terrier. The Bedlington may look more like sweet little Bo Peep’s lost sheep, but don’t be deceived, within that soft exterior lies quite the protective spirit.
In the end, deciding to make your Bedlington Terrier your guard dog should be a decision based on their individual characteristics, your personal circumstances, and the fact that they are delightful companions. After all, having a dog is about more than just having a live alarm system at home—it’s about having a trusted friend and a beloved family member.
