Harry Brook The Bedlington Whippet is a fascinating and unique dog breed that combines the characteristics of two popular breeds, the Bedlington Terrier and the Whippet. This hybrid breed is known for its distinctive appearance, intelligence, and versatility. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and temperament of the Bedlington Whippet, as well as its suitability as a family pet and working dog.
History
The Bedlington Whippet originated in the United Kingdom in the 19th century. It was bred by crossing the Bedlington Terrier, a small and agile terrier breed, with the Whippet, a sleek and speedy sighthound. The goal was to create a dog that possessed the speed and grace of the Whippet, combined with the tenacity and hunting skills of the Bedlington Terrier.
Initially, the Bedlington Whippet was primarily used for hunting small game, such as rabbits and rats. Its unique appearance and versatile skills quickly gained popularity among dog enthusiasts, and it became a sought-after breed for both hunting and racing.
Basic Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Traditional Colors | Blue, liver, sandy, or any combination |
| Weight | 18 to 30 pounds (8 to 14 kg) |
| Size | Medium-sized |
| Dog Height | Approximately 16 to 18 inches (40 to 46 cm) at the shoulder |
| Life Span | 12 to 15 years |
| Price | Varies based on breeder and lineage |
| Suitable For | Active families, singles, and seniors |
Physical Appearance
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Facial Structure | Narrow head with a slightly domed skull and a tapering muzzle |
| Coat | Dense, curly, and wiry; resembles lamb’s wool |
| Nose | Black or liver-colored |
| Eyes | Almond-shaped, expressive, and dark |
| Ears | Small, triangular, and folded close to the head |
| Muzzle | Tapered and strong |
| Body | Lithe, muscular, and well-proportioned |
Quick Facts
- Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and energetic.
- Reproduction: Typically has litters of 4 to 6 puppies.
- Playtime: Loves outdoor activities and interactive play.
- Intelligence: Highly intelligent and eager to learn.
- Evolutionary Origins: Developed in England as a versatile working dog.
- Genetics: A mix of Whippet and Bedlington Terrier.
- Breed Group: Sighthound and Terrier hybrid.
Games for Bedlington Whippets
Bedlington Whippet playing with child
Indoor Games
- Hide and Seek: Hide treats or toys around the house for them to find.
- Interactive Puzzle Toys: Stimulate their minds with puzzle feeders.
- Fetch: Use soft toys or balls for indoor fetch sessions.
Outdoor Games
- Lure Coursing: Set up a safe course for them to chase a lure.
- Agility: Navigate through obstacles in the backyard.
- Long Walks or Runs: Their energy thrives outdoors.
Special Key Points
- Adaptability: Adapts well to various living environments.
- Senses: Excellent sight and keen sense of smell.
- Sleep Patterns: Typically sleeps around 12 to 14 hours a day.
- Sense of Smell: Exceptional tracking abilities.
- Loyalty: Devoted and bonds closely with their family.
Characteristics
The Bedlington Whippet is a medium-sized dog with a slim and muscular build. It has a distinctive coat that is soft, curly, and often described as “lamb-like.” The coat comes in various colors, including blue, liver, and sandy. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain the coat’s texture and prevent matting.
In terms of temperament, the Bedlington Whippet is known for being intelligent, affectionate, and loyal. It is a highly trainable breed that excels in various dog sports, such as agility, obedience, and lure coursing. Its natural athleticism and keen senses make it an excellent choice for competitive activities.
Despite its hunting background, the Bedlington Whippet is generally friendly and sociable with people and other animals. It is known to be good with children and can adapt well to family life. However, early socialization and consistent training are important to ensure a well-rounded and well-behaved dog.
Suitability as a Family Pet
The Bedlington Whippet can make an excellent family pet for the right household. Its affectionate nature and ability to bond closely with its human family members make it a loyal and loving companion. However, it is important to note that the Bedlington Whippet has a high energy level and requires regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Due to its sighthound heritage, the Bedlington Whippet has a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for households with small pets, such as cats or rabbits. Early socialization and training can help mitigate this instinct, but it is essential to supervise interactions with other animals.
Working Dog Abilities
The Bedlington Whippet’s hunting background and athleticism make it well-suited for various working roles. It excels in lure coursing, a sport that simulates the chase of live prey, and has also been used for hunting, racing, and even as a therapy dog.
Its speed, agility, and intelligence make it a versatile working dog that can adapt to different tasks and environments. However, it is important to provide mental and physical stimulation to keep the Bedlington Whippet engaged and fulfilled.
Health and Caring
Bedlington Whippet Health and Caring
The Bedlington Whippet is a unique and versatile canine companion. Let’s delve into various aspects of their well-being:
Health Issues
- Generally Healthy: Bedlington Whippets are considered one of the healthiest dog breeds. They rarely require regular medication or extensive veterinary care.
- Prone to Some Conditions: While they are generally robust, they can still develop certain health issues. These may include:
- Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis: Rare inflammation in knee and shoulder joints.
- Vestibular Syndrome: Causes dizziness, eye jerking, and head tilting.
- Cervical Disc Disease: Similar to a slipped disc in humans.
- Cushing’s Disease: Linked to overworked adrenal glands.
- Lymphoma: Cancer with unknown causes.
- Cataracts and PRA: Eye conditions affecting vision.
- Overbite: Some Bedlington Whippets may have an overbite.
Read More: Common Health Issues in Dogs
Dog Food and Diet Requirements
Bedlington Whippet eating Food
- High Energy Output: Bedlington Whippets are working dogs with high energy needs. Feed them a high-calorie, high-protein diet to match their activity level.
- Regular Meals: Provide three to four meals a day for puppies and two meals a day for adults. Opt for high-quality, nutritious food.
Grooming
Bedlington Whippet Grooming
- Coarse Fur: Bedlington Whippets have rougher, coarser fur compared to other Lurcher crosses.
- Minimal Shedding: Their fur doesn’t shed much, but regular baths and brushing are essential.
- Trim Nails and Check Ears: Regular grooming includes nail trimming and ear checks.
Read More: The Art of Dog Grooming
Training
- Intelligent and Trainable: Bedlington Whippets are highly intelligent and can learn complex commands.
- Socialization: Early socialization is crucial to help them get along with other dogs and cats.
- Exercise: They need at least an hour of off-leash exercise daily.
- Burrowing Skills: Bedlington Whippets excel at burrowing, a trait from their original purpose.
Socialization and Communication
- Family Dogs: They are mild-mannered, rarely aggressive, and compliant around other dogs.
- Great with Children: Patient, loving, and affectionate, they thrive in family settings.
- Cat Compatibility: While some may tolerate cats if socialized early, it’s not recommended.
Read More: The Importance of Dog socialization
Recognizing Bedlington Whippets
- Look for their distinctive appearance: a mix of Whippet agility and Bedlington Terrier persistence.
- Their shaggy, fluffy coat sets them apart from other Lurchers.
- Observe their energetic and nimble behavior, especially during play and exercise.
Male vs. Female
- Size: Males average 16-17 inches at the shoulder, while females average 15-16 inches.
- Weight: Medium-sized, usually weighing 17-25 lb.
- Temperament: Both genders are family-oriented, intelligent, and trainable.
- Exercise Needs: Similar for both sexes, requiring ample physical activity.
Helpful YouTube Link:
Livestock training my dog and pups ( Bedlington Whippets). Sheep 🐑 today, off lead. (youtube.com)
Conclusion
The Bedlington Whippet is a unique and versatile dog breed that combines the best traits of the Bedlington Terrier and the Whippet. With its distinctive appearance, intelligence, and athleticism, it can excel in various dog sports and working roles. As a family pet, it is affectionate and loyal, but it requires regular exercise and early socialization to thrive. If you are looking for a dog breed that stands out from the crowd and offers a range of abilities, the Bedlington Whippet may be the perfect choice for you.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bedlington Whippet hypoallergenic?
Bedlington Terriers are considered hypoallergenic, and the Bedlington Whippet inherits this trait.
While not completely non-shedding, they are low-shedding dogs, making them suitable for allergy-sensitive households.
How do they compare to Whippets and Greyhounds in terms of speed?
While not as fast as purebred Whippets, Bedlington Whippets are still very high-energy dogs.
They run quite fast and are agile, with a spry, arched running gait.
Their ability to burrow is a trait inherited from their original purpose.
What is their temperament?
Bedlington Whippets are mild-mannered and rarely aggressive.
They are excellent family dogs, patient, loving, and affectionate.
Their intelligence makes them trainable and adaptable.
What are the size and weight of a Bedlington Whippet?
Height: Male Bedlington Whippets average 16-17 inches (41-43 cm) at the shoulder, while females average 15-16 inches (38-40 cm).
Weight: They are medium-sized dogs, usually weighing between 17-25 lb (7-10 kg).
What does a Bedlington Whippet look like?
Bedlington Whippets have a unique appearance.
They resemble small, sheep-like dogs with a thick, shaggy coat.
Their build is slightly stockier, and they have a wider, squarer head compared to typical Whippets.
Despite this, they retain the grace and agility associated with their parent breeds.
What is a Bedlington Whippet?
The Bedlington Whippet, also known as the Beddy Whippet, is a Lurcher cross breed.
It results from the mix of a Bedlington Terrier and a Whippet.
These dogs are specially bred for hunting small prey and are known for their agility and speed.
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