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Q. Health
problems & what they are.
A. The main
thing to be aware of is an inherited disease called Copper Toxicosis. Dogs
which are affected by this disease may die prematurely, or become chronically
ill. As this is inherited from the parents, it is essential that
potential owners ask the breeder about CT, and whether the parents, and/or
the puppies have been DNA tested & ask to see the certificates breeders
will not mind you enquiring it shows you will be a responsible owner. More
information on CT can be found elsewhere on this web site under Copper Toxicosis.
Because of the way the gene that is Responsible
for CT is transmitted all reputable breeders have tested their dogs for
several generations so should be able to tell you their results with confidence.
The newest test, carried out in the UK by the Animal Health Trust is quick,
simple, painless and non-invasive, and at just over £50 is well worth
investing in to give you peace of mind.
The Kennel Club also advise breeders to have
their Bedlingtons eyes tested for Total Retinal Dysplasia as this was a
problem many years ago but with selective breeding this is no longer thought to be in the breed. But any puppies that are registered under the
Assured Breeders Scheme both of the parents must have been test "clear" for
Total Retinal Dysplasia
Also Cracked Pads (or "footpad
Hyperkeratosis) can be found in the breed. This does not seem to be the
problem it was many years ago, but you do need to be aware of it. This can be
very painful for a dog as large corns and deep cracks appear in the pads of
the feet and can make the dog lame. Many years ago breeders decided not to
breed with any dog that was affected with this as it was thought that it
would more than likely pass it on to their puppies it has now become rare in
the breed. More info can be found on the Bedlington Terrier Health Group web
site http://www.bedlingtonterrierhealthgroup.org
Q. Are Bedlingtons suitable
for people with asthma and allergies?
A. Though it seems that, as with Poodles and
Bichons Frises, people with asthma and allergies can tolerate Bedlington
hair, but there is still the risk when you're grooming your dog that hair can
aggravate your condition. You may be able to visit a Bedlington breeder in
your area for a couple of hours to see how you react before you plunge in and
buy one, just in the hope that you'll be able to live with it. As it can be
distressing having to hand back your beloved pup because of your allergies. Q. Are they good with other dogs and children ?
A. Bedlingtons love being with people, and
there are very few problems with them living with children but it must be
remembered that young children can be rather rough pulling ears and tails and
the like while most Bedlingtons will be quite happy with this others will not
be so tolerant so a close eye is advisable, after all they are a terrier with
teeth to match.
People see this lamb like creature and expect it to be
a lap dog which some are but a true Bedlington is a working dog and can walk
the moors all day they also love to curl up in front of the fire. They will
generally live and play quite happily with other dogs, Bedlingtons will not
go looking for a fight but if cornered they will stand their ground and will
be very protective of their family.
Although not a yappy dog he will let you know when he hears a noise
and when anyone is there whether it is friend or foe. Keeping more than one
Bedlington is not usually a problem as they do like company but two dog dogs
can be a problem once they start to mature and one wants to be top dog but as
long as you let them know that you are the top dog in your house it should
not be a problem.
Q. Do
they need much grooming & are they easy to train?
A.
They do need a good deal of careful attention to their coats the dead
hair needs to be combed through on a
regular basis not just a slick over with a soft brush which will make them
look nice and fluffy but hides a great deal of problems, since they don't
moult in the way other dogs do, their hair will mat up and this
will make them look scruffy and knotted so a good trim about every 8 weeks or
so will be needed or the dog will become very uncomfortable and can also make
their skin sore, the only way to remove it if they do not receive the
attention can be to have it all removed not a pretty sight but it will grow
back given time. If grooming is kept up with it can be very pleasurable for
the dog they do like the attention. Their ears do need particular
attention hair grows well down in to the ear and can cause all sorts of problems
so removing this and any wax that is present will eliminate any problems and
may be a costly visit to the vets.
The club does produce an Illustrated Standard of the
breed which does include a trimming chart and other useful information these
can be obtained from the secretary.
As for training Bedlingtons are very intelligent and
will usually be very easy to train but can also be very stubborn so you need
to be very stern with them or they will soon realise they can train you. Q. What colours do Bedlingtons come in ?
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