Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a good family dog for active households, as they are affectionate, loyal, and playful companions. While they have a milder temperament than many other terriers, they thrive best in environments where they receive plenty of attention and regular mental and physical stimulation.

Family dog: 8 / 10

They are good with children, especially if raised with them. They are playful and energetic. However, they can be less tolerant of rough handling than some breeds, so they are often better suited for families with older, respectful children.

Good with kids: 8 / 10

They can be a good choice for first-time owners. Bedlingtons are intelligent and generally eager to please, making them relatively trainable for a terrier. However, they require consistent, positive training and a commitment to their specific grooming needs.

First-time owner: 7 / 10

Bedlington Terriers are adaptable to apartment living provided they receive their necessary daily physical and mental engagement. Despite their athletic nature and need for exercise, they are remarkably calm, quiet, and well-behaved indoors. Their moderate size and gentle disposition make them suitable companions for city dwellers who can commit to regular walks and interactive play.

Apartment dog: 7 / 10

A yard is not strictly required for a Bedlington Terrier, as they are adaptable to apartment living provided they receive about 45 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. While a securely fenced yard is highly recommended for safe off-leash play and to satisfy their natural digging instincts, regular brisk walks and mental stimulation are sufficient to keep them healthy and happy.

Yard need: 9 / 10

Bedlington Terriers can typically handle being alone for four to six hours, but they are prone to separation anxiety due to their strong bonds with owners. Without sufficient company or mental stimulation, they may become destructive or vocal, making them best suited for households where someone is around for most of the day.

Can be left alone: 2 / 10

While they have a high prey drive, they are often more successful at living with cats than other terriers if trained to respect them.

Good with cats: 5 / 10

They are not inherently aggressive, but they are alert and make excellent watchdogs. They will bark to announce visitors. They are generally friendly with strangers once introduced but will courageously defend their family if they perceive a threat.

Aggression tendency: 3 / 10

Yes, they are energetic and athletic dogs. Originally bred to hunt vermin, they are fast and agile. They require regular daily exercise to keep them physically fit and mentally satisfied, preventing boredom-induced behaviors.

Energy level: 9 / 10

A Bedlington Terrier needs about 45 to 60 minutes of exercise daily. This should include brisk walks, jogging, and interactive play. They also excel in dog sports like agility or earthdog trials, which provide great mental and physical workouts.

Exercise need: 7 / 10

Bedlington Terriers tolerate warm weather reasonably well, and their coat is actually somewhat water-resistant, which can help keep them cool when properly groomed. Still, owners should avoid exercising them during peak heat and always provide fresh water and shade.

Hot weather tolerance: 6 / 10

They can handle moderately cold weather, especially if their coat is kept slightly longer. However, they lack a thick undercoat, so they can get cold in freezing temperatures and may benefit from a warm dog sweater during winter outings.

Cold weather tolerance: 2 / 10

Bedlington Terriers are rarely subject to breed bans. Their moderate size and friendly reputation make them widely accepted in most apartments and rental properties, provided they are well-behaved and not excessive barkers.

Rental restriction risk: 2 / 10