Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is described by the AKC as loyal, charming, frollicking, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 15-17.5 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 17-23 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 11–16+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Charming / Frollicking [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 147 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Bedlingtons, like most Terriers, have a fair amount of energy and require regular exercise to stay fit and happy. The breed is energetic, but not rambunctious or mischievous. A Bedlington loves to play fetch or go on a long walk or run, but afterwards he's happy to just curl up on the couch with his family. [1]
Grooming
The crisp, curly coat of the Bedlington Terrier is a mix of soft and harsh, but not wiry, hair. While fastidious owners will be happy to learn that it virtually does not shed at all, it grows very quickly and needs to be clipped every two months. Many owners learn the process, which involves both electric clippers and scissors, while others are happy to take their Bedlington to a groomer. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Bedlington is generally a healthy breed, and responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock for health conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder), thrombopathia, and certain eye issues. As with all breeds, a Bedlington's ears should be checked regularly, and the teeth brushed daily. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Copper Toxicosis DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Bedlington Terrier in 1886. [1]
- It ranked No. 147 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 146 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Bedlington.” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
Common questions
How long do Bedlington Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 11-16 years.
How big does a Bedlington Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 15-17.5 inches and weight 17-23 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Bedlington Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Bedlington Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.