Bedlington Terrier

18th and 19th-century miners in the English county of Northumberland (and the Bedlington Mining Shire in particular) needed a dog to clear rats from the galleries of the mines. So they began to cross local terriers like the Dandie Dinmont with Otterhounds and Whippets. We're small enough (16 inches and 18 to 23 pounds) to pursue vermin through tight places -- underground and above -- and we're speedy, tenacious hunters -- even those nasty badgers. In the 1800s game poachers liked to have us by their side (we were known as the Gypsy Dog in that career). All in all, we'd rather chase rabbits. The Bedlington Terrier was recognized by the AKC in 1886.

• Adaptable to apartment life -- with ample exercise
• Affectionate, devoted family friend
• Aggressive toward other dogs if attacked
• Agile and active
• Always alert
• Born to run, happy to walk
• Busy is better than bored
• Coat needs regular care
• Confident and self-assured
• Courageous canine
• Energizer doggie
• Even-tempered, good-natured

• Hardy hunter
• Independent thinker
• Intelligent and ready to learn
• Lives to work
• Loves kids and vice-versa
• Outdoors enthusiast
• Perfect protector
• Playful pal
• Pleased to please
• Caters to the country, tolerates town
• Ready to romp
• Socialization and training must start early

Regular playtime and twice-daily walks will keep me fit and in high spirits. Please have a professional groomer trim me up or my spirits will sag.

A hardy, long-lived (12-16 years) breed, but watch for copper toxicosis and some eye disorders.