Bedlington Terrier vs Whippet: Key Differences & Similarities

The Bedlington Terrier and Whippet have distinct histories and origins. They differ in popularity, with each breed appealing to different types of dog owners. Let’s explore these two dog breeds!

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Physical Characteristics

Bedlington Terriers and Whippets have distinct physical traits that set them apart. Their sizes, coats, and breed standards differ significantly.

Size and Weight Comparison

• Bedlington Terriers are medium-sized dogs. Males stand 16-17.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller at 15-16.5 inches. Their weight ranges from 17-23 pounds.
• Whippets are larger than Bedlington Terriers. Males measure 19-22 inches tall. Females are 18-21 inches. Whippets weigh between 25-40 pounds.
• Despite size differences, both breeds have a graceful appearance. Bedlingtons have a more compact build. Whippets display a sleek, athletic physique.

Coat Type and Colors

Bedlington Terriers have a unique coat that resembles lamb’s wool. It’s crisp and curly, but not wiry. Their fur is thick and soft to the touch.

Common Bedlington colors include:

• Blue
• Liver
• Sandy
• Blue and tan
• Liver and tan
• Sandy and tan

Whippets have short, smooth coats. Their fur is fine and close-lying. Whippet colors are varied:

• Black
• White
• Fawn
• Brindle
• Blue
• Red

Both breeds shed minimally. Bedlingtons need regular grooming. Whippets require less maintenance.

Breed Standards

Bedlington Terriers have a distinctive pear-shaped head. Their body is arched over the loin. They have a slightly curved back, possibly due to Whippet ancestry.

Key Bedlington features:

• Almond-shaped eyes
• Triangular ears with rounded tips
• Narrow, tapering muzzle

Whippets have a long, lean head. Their body shows a graceful curve of line. They have a deep chest and tucked-up abdomen.

Notable Whippet traits:

• Rose-shaped ears
• Large, oval eyes
• Long, arched neck

Both breeds should appear well-balanced and athletic. Bedlingtons have a more terrier-like stance. Whippets display the typical sighthound silhouette.

Temperament and Personality

Bedlington Terriers and Whippets have distinct personalities that shape their interactions with people and other animals. These breeds differ in their energy levels, social needs, and overall dispositions.

General Disposition

• Bedlington Terriers are known for being playful, intelligent, and affectionate. They have a lively and curious nature, often displaying a mix of terrier spunk and gentle companionship. These dogs can be protective of their families and may show a stubborn streak at times.
• Whippets, on the other hand, are generally calm and quiet indoors. They have a gentle, mild-mannered temperament and are often described as laid-back when not engaged in physical activity. Whippets tend to be less vocal than Bedlington Terriers.
• Both breeds are intelligent, but Bedlington Terriers may require more mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

Family and Social Relationships

• Bedlington Terriers form strong bonds with their families. They are typically good with children and can get along well with other pets if socialized early. These dogs may be reserved with strangers initially but warm up quickly.
• Whippets are usually friendly with children and other pets. They have a sociable nature and enjoy being part of family activities. Whippets may be slightly more independent than Bedlington Terriers but still crave human companionship.
• Both breeds can be sensitive to their owners’ emotions and may not do well in households with frequent tension or loud arguments.

Potential for Playfulness and Interaction

• Bedlington Terriers have high energy levels and love to play. They enjoy interactive games and need regular exercise to stay happy. These dogs can be quite entertaining with their playful antics and agile movements.
• Whippets have bursts of energy but are generally calm indoors. They enjoy short sprints and games of chase. Whippets may have a stronger prey drive due to their sighthound heritage, which can make them prone to chasing small animals.
• Both breeds benefit from regular playtime and exercise, but Bedlington Terriers may require more frequent and varied activities to keep them mentally stimulated and physically satisfied.

Health and Longevity

Bedlington Terriers and Whippets have different health profiles and lifespans. Both breeds face unique health challenges that require specific care and attention from owners.

Typical Health Concerns

Bedlington Terriers may develop copper toxicosis, a liver condition that affects their ability to process copper. This can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Whippets are prone to heart problems, particularly heart murmurs. They may also experience eye issues and deafness as they age.

Both breeds can suffer from:

• Hypothyroidism
• Patellar luxation
• Eye problems

Regular vet check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment of these conditions.

Lifespan Comparisons

Bedlington Terriers typically have a longer lifespan than Whippets. On average, Bedlington Terriers live 15-17 years, while Whippets have a life expectancy of 12-15 years.

Factors affecting lifespan include:

• Genetics
• Diet
• Exercise
• Overall health care

With proper care and attention, both breeds can live long, healthy lives.

Care Requirements and Prevention

Regular exercise is vital for both breeds. Whippets need more intense exercise due to their high energy levels. Bedlington Terriers require moderate activity to stay healthy. Diet plays a crucial role in preventing health issues. A balanced, high-quality diet tailored to each breed’s needs is essential.

Routine care includes:

• Regular grooming
• Dental cleanings
• Vaccinations
• Parasite prevention

Annual physical check-ups are recommended for both breeds to catch and address health concerns early. Bedlington Terriers may need more frequent liver function tests due to their predisposition to copper toxicosis.

Exercise and Training

Bedlington Terriers and Whippets have distinct exercise and training needs. Their energy levels, trainability, and adaptability differ significantly, impacting their daily routines and interactions with owners.

Activity Level and Playfulness

• Bedlington Terriers are lively and playful. They enjoy active games and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. These dogs have moderate energy levels and can adapt to various living situations.
• Whippets have bursts of energy but are generally calm indoors. They love to run and play, especially in enclosed areas where they can sprint safely. Whippets have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals.
• Both breeds benefit from daily walks and playtime. Bedlingtons enjoy longer periods of activity, while Whippets prefer short, intense bursts of exercise.

Training and Intelligence

• Bedlington Terriers are smart and eager to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. These dogs can learn tricks and commands quickly but may have a stubborn streak at times.
• Whippets are intelligent but can be independent. They may lose interest in repetitive training sessions. Short, fun training periods work best for Whippets. Both breeds benefit from early socialization and consistent training.
• Bedlingtons excel in obedience and agility competitions. Whippets are natural runners and often participate in lure coursing events.

Exercise Needs and Adaptability

• Bedlington Terriers need moderate to high exercise. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation keep them content. They adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.
• Whippets require less exercise than many people expect. Short bursts of intense activity, like sprinting in a fenced area, satisfy their exercise needs. They are adaptable and can live comfortably in apartments if given regular outings.
• Both breeds enjoy outdoor activities but have different exercise styles. Bedlingtons prefer longer, steady exercise sessions. Whippets thrive on quick, intense runs followed by relaxation.

Living Environment

Bedlington Terriers and Whippets have different needs when it comes to living spaces. Their exercise needs and ability to adapt to various climates also differ. Let’s look at how these breeds fare in different living situations.

Suitability for Apartment Living

• Bedlington Terriers adapt well to apartment living. They are small dogs that don’t need a lot of space indoors. These terriers are calm inside the house and don’t bark much, making them good neighbors.
• Whippets can also live in apartments if given enough exercise. They are quiet and laid-back indoors. However, their larger size means they need more space than Bedlington Terriers.
• Both breeds can do well in small homes if their exercise needs are met. Regular walks and playtime are important for both.

Space and Exercise Requirements

• Bedlington Terriers need moderate exercise. A daily walk and some playtime is usually enough. They enjoy running in a fenced yard but don’t require a large outdoor space.
• Whippets have higher exercise needs. They are built for speed and love to run. A secure, fenced area where they can sprint safely is ideal. Whippets need more active playtime and longer walks than Bedlington Terriers.
• Both breeds benefit from mental stimulation through games and training. This helps keep them happy in smaller living spaces.

Adaptation to Climate

• Bedlington Terriers have a unique coat that helps them adapt to different climates. Their wooly coat provides insulation in cold weather. In hot weather, they need regular grooming to prevent overheating.
• Whippets have short, thin coats. They do better in warm climates but can get cold easily. In cold weather, they may need a coat or sweater when outside.
• Both breeds should not be left outside in extreme temperatures. Whippets are more sensitive to cold, while Bedlington Terriers may struggle in very hot weather without proper care.

Grooming and Maintenance

Bedlington Terriers and Whippets have different grooming needs due to their unique coat types. These differences impact shedding, allergies, and daily care routines.

Shedding and Allergies

• Bedlington Terriers have a distinctive curly coat that sheds very little. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. They produce less dander than many other breeds.
• Whippets have short, smooth coats that shed more than Bedlingtons. They’re not considered hypoallergenic. Whippets need regular brushing to control shedding and keep their coats healthy.
• Both breeds can be good for allergy sufferers, but Bedlington Terriers are generally better in this regard.

Grooming Routine

• Bedlington Terriers need more frequent grooming. Their coats require regular trimming every 6-8 weeks to maintain their distinctive shape. Daily brushing helps prevent matting and keeps their coat in good condition.
• Whippets have easier grooming needs. A weekly brush is usually enough to keep their coat clean and shiny. They rarely need baths unless they get dirty.
• Both breeds need regular nail trims and teeth cleaning. Bedlington Terriers may need more attention to their ears due to their hairy ear canals.