Bichon Frise vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison

Bichon Frise vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed ComparisonBedlington Terrier is originated from United Kingdom but Bichon Frise is originated from Spain. Bedlington Terrier may grow 14 cm / 6 inches higher than Bichon Frise. Both Bedlington Terrier and Bichon Frise are having almost same weight. Bedlington Terrier may live 5 years less than Bichon Frise. Both Bedlington Terrier and Bichon Frise has same litter size. Both Bedlington Terrier and Bichon Frise requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Companion dog
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United Kingdom
Spain
Height Male:
41 - 44 cm
16 - 18 inches
23 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
Height Female:
38 - 42 cm
14 - 17 inches
21 - 29 cm
8 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
6 - 11 kg
13 - 25 pounds
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
Weight Female:
6 - 11 kg
13 - 25 pounds
4 - 8 kg
8 - 18 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
12 - 19 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 6
4 - 6
Size:
Medium
Small
Other Names:
Rothbury Terrier, Rodbery Terrier, Rothbury's Lamb
Bichón Tenerife • Bichon à poil frisé Bichon
Colors Available:
Blue, Liver, Sandy, Tan
white
Coat:
medium, thick and linty
Medium length, silky texture with corkscrew curls
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Playful, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

bedlington terrierOriginally known as Rodbury Terriers or Rothbury’s Lambs, and renowned for looking like a lamb, the Bedlington Terrier was bred in the village of Bedlington in Northumberland. They’ve had other names too and were also known as ‘gypsy dogs’ and this is because gypsies used them to hunt.

The Bedlington Terrier Club was established in 1875 and the National Bedlington Terrier Club was formed in England in 1877. The breed has links with the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. When you look at the slightly arched back, it could also be related to the Whippet. They have been crossed with Whippets to get that speed, and feisty character.

bichon friseContrary to the myths and many of the tales of the history of the Bichon Frise, the breed was originally developed in Spain. Later specific trait development occurred in France to give us the lap dog Bichon Frise that we know today. The original Spanish dog – the Bichon – was a water – sailing dog. It was descended from the poodle breeds crossed with either the water spaniels or the Barbet. These early dogs were friendly and happy and because of this, sailors carried them with them on their ships and even bartered them for supplies. Prior to the 14th century the Spanish probably brought them to the Canary Islands. Later in the 14th century they we discovered again by Italian sailors who returned them to Europe where they lived in the courts of the nobility. During the Renaissance and after the French fell in love with the breed while the Spanish continue to enjoy their presence.

In the late 19th century in France the breed fell out of popularity and became street dogs and circus and fair dogs. They also worked with organ grinders and assisted the blind. In the early 20th century, the Societe Centrale Canine, the National Kennel Club of France, adopted the breed’s official standard – while they were still known as both the Bichon and the Tenerife. The popularity of the breed at this time is heavily attributed to “The Adventures of TinTIn” , by Herge, which featured a small, white, fluffy fox terrier. Then the president of the Federation Cynoloqique Internationale presented a new name for the breed based on its characteristics. The name Bichon Frise kept the Bichon heritage and added “curly” the meaning of Frise. Under this name the breed was admitted to the Societe Centrale Canine stud book in October of 1934.

The Bichon Frise came to the United States for the first time in 19554 and was admitted to the American Kennel Club Stud Book in 1972. They entered the non-sporting group of the AKC in 1973. By 2001 the Bichon Frise, J.R., won the Westminster Dog Show. In 1976, the Bichon Frise came to Australia, imported by Harry and Margaret Begg who oversaw the growth of the breed there. Today there are 4 separate breeds believed to be descended from the original Bichon/Tenerife breeds – the Bichon Frise, the Bichon Bolognaise, the Maltese and the Havanese.

Description

Lamb-Like in Looks but the Heart of a Lion

bedlington terrier puppy - descriptionDon’t let their lamb-like appearance fool you – the Bedlington Terrier is a plucky dog who has some amazing speeds when it comes to swimming and running. This is an intelligent dog too and every bit a Terrier in spirit. Their tenacity has seen them being used in dog fighting as well.

The Look

The Bedlington Terrier stands at about 41cm in height and weighs between 8 – 10kg. Muscular, with a deep chest, graceful and lithe, not only does he look like a lamb but the dog’s expression is gentle too with bright deep-set eyes. When it comes to his coat, the dogs have blue, sandy or liver color coats and the coat has tan markings in some areas.

The coat is shaggy and is made up of hard- and soft hair that will need to be regularly trimmed. Known as a hypoallergenic breed, the coat is also described as thick and linty. The ears are floppy with rounded tips, and are thin and velvety in texture with a small silky tassel at the tip. The longish tail is set low and tapers down to a point.

bichon frise puppy - descriptionThe modern Bichon Frise is a white, small dog with a round skull and muzzle. The nose should be black and the eyes round and dark. Depending on the size of the dog, the legs and head are proportionate to the body, while the tail should be curly and long. Both the tail and the ears must not be docked. Their coat is as hypoallergenic as a dog gets. It is white, dense and for most Bichon Frise, it is curly. They should have black lips as well.

Characteristics

bedlington terrier dog - characteristicsYou can’t miss the Bedlington Terrier – he has a striking resemblance to a lamb. The curly coat is interesting too – a mix of hard- and soft hair. He is friendly, loyal and devoted to his human family and is known to be a brave, courageous, feisty dog with the inclination to bark more. Socialization and training can change this though. He gets on well with children and other pets in the home. He isn’t aggressive but if taunted, he can put up a good fight.

This is a dog that can adapt to his surroundings so he slots in well to both city- and country living. Wherever he lives, he will need adequate exercise.

The present-day Bedlington Terrier, inducted by the American Kennel Club in 1967, is not a lamb by any means, and by choosing to have him as your pet, you’ll be amazed at his wonderful qualities that make him such in ideal companion.

bichon frise dog - characteristicsThe Bichon Frise, according to the American Kennel Club is a cheerful and merry dog. They are gentle, playful, sensitive and affectionate. These dogs love people, are very social and like other dogs as well. They love to play with children and they are intelligent and affectionate. They were developed in their latter stages by the French to be “lap dogs” or companion animals. They are not territorial by nature but can become so if confined and encouraged. Start obedience training early and be consistent throughout their lives. They take to training easily if positive techniques are used. They do however, have a reputation for not taking well to housetraining. Be persistent

Health Problems

bedlington terrier puppies - health problemsBedlington Terriers are a healthy breed, but just like other dogs, they are prone to some common dog illnesses. You can always ensure that your Bedlington reaches his 12 – 14 years of age lifespan by ensuring his vaccines are kept up to date, that he is fed excellent food and fresh water, he is exercised and that he is loved and cherished. Also, if you’re looking to buy a Bedlington, find a reputable breeder.

Some common health issues to look out for in your Bedlington Terrier include -

Hip dysplasia
Different eye diseases
Hypothyroidism
Copper storage hepatopathy or Liver Disease – this is a disease which can be inherited and where large amounts of copper accumulate in the tissues of the liver. The result is inflammation and cell damage and this can lead to liver failure and even death. Abdominal swelling, jaundice and weight loss are symptoms to watch for with this disease.

bichon frise puppies - health problemsThe coat of the Bichon Frise can easily become matted if not brushed or combed every day. Severe matting can lead to a hematoma in their ears. They are also very prone to ear infections so paying a lot of attention to their ears is imperative. They are will chew and scratch themselves if not groomed well and this can cause skin infections and conditions. They might have allergies to fleas, pollen, chemicals, and dust. The patella (knee cap) can be loose, diabetes, cataracts and heart disease also affect the Bichon Frise. In the United Kingdom the number one cause of death for the breed is old age -13 plus years, with 21% dying of cancer. In North America cancer is the number one killer as it is for most dogs. The Bichon might also be afflicted with hematologic disorders such as AIHA (Autoimmune hemolytic anemia) and ITP (Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia) which while less common than cancer will kill the dog much earlier in life than cancer. The other condition that the Bichon Frise is prone to are liver shunts. If found early they can be surgically corrected but most are not, and liver failure is eventually the cause of death.

Caring The Pet

Exercise and Training

bedlington terrier dogs - caringThe Bedlington Terrier is a lively, cheerful companion at home and is somewhat more relaxed than other terrier breeds. Affectionate and loyal, he just loves to spend time with his human family. He’ll love to be your companion on a walk and he gets delighted when you’re ready to play ball games with him. He makes a great friend for children too, and even though he makes a good watchdog, he will welcome any visitors you have. When trained and socialized he becomes an obedient, well behaved member of the family.

Grooming

The Bedlington coat sheds a little but the rough coat will need to be trimmed regularly and the coat brushed twice a week to ensure no tangling and to remove loose hairs. Also, regular cleaning of teeth and ears can help ensure that harmful bacteria doesn’t build up, ensuring the overall health of your dog.

Feeding

bichon frise dogs - caringBeing a small dog, the Bichon Frise is susceptible to obesity and that condition will be terminal in the end for this breed. So make sure you do not overfeed your Bichon Frise. The same is true with the use of treats. The Bichon loves treats and loves the association with treats of having pleased you. They should be fed small meals – about ¼ cup of good high quality dry food twice a day.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the Bichon Frise is susceptible to:

Hematomas and infections of the ear if not groomed well and consistently.

Cancer is number one killer.

Hematological Issues are deadlier than cancer.

Liver shunts are a very serious concern.

Exercise and games

Though the Bichon Frise is not an overly active dog, they do love to play. They are characterized by short bursts of activity followed by long periods of rest. They can be worn out just by running around the house. You must play with them everyday as well as take them on a walk each day. Bichons are fast and agile and do well in agility trials. They also like to compete in rally and obedience trials. Most of all they love to and need to play with their people every day.

Comparison with other breeds

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  9. Bichon Frise vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
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  26. Bedlington Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  29. Bedlington Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Bedlington Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bedlington Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  34. Bedlington Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Bedlington Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Bedlington Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Bedlington Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Bedlington Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Bedlington Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Bedlington Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Bedlington Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Bedlington Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Bedlington Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Bedlington Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Bedlington Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Bedlington Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Bedlington Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Bedlington Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Bedlington Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Bedlington Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison