A coursing dog with plenty of courage,
endurance and determination. As pets they are affectionate and loyal
to their owners family but can show aggression towards other dogs.
Description & History
The Bedlington Terrier is one
of the four terrier breeds originating near to the border between
England and Scotland. Formerly it was called the Northern Counties
Fox Terrier or the Rothbury Terrier, owing to its association with
Rothbury, an areas situated a few mile south-west of Alnwick in
the county of Northumberland. The breed was renamed in 1825 by Joseph
Ainsley, a stonemason, who resided in Bedlington, a village lying
south-east of Morpeth in the same county. The origin of the breed
is not too hard to define as there is a known connection with other
Border County terriers. In January 1869 the Field magazine printed
an article on the breed, in which it was said that the Bedlington
was not dissimilar to the Dandie Dinmont but 'stood on longer legs,
and had a somewhat shorter body and generally less head, and that
Dandies and Bedlingtons were often bred together'. It is also recognised
by Dandie Dinmont enthusiasts that the Bedlington once featured
in their breed. Whippets and Lurchers are also believed to have
had some part to play in the Bedlington's development. Nowadays
Bedlingtons are crossed with both Greyhounds and Whippets to produce
excellent coursing dogs. Bedlingtons, like all terrier breeds, were
a lively lot and always on the look out for all types of vermin
� rats, rabbits, badger and otter. It is known as the 'Gyspy Dog'
as it was a first rate poacher and always kept the pot full. It
was also used by miners in Northumberland and Durham to keep the
rat population under control. The Bedlington has a following among
sporting folk and show kennels not only in its own country but also
overseas. They are an intelligent and obediant breed, make good
companions and are usually good with children. Like all breeds with
a sporting inheritance they are best suited to a home in the country
where they can be given plenty of exercise.