Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Bedlington Terrier Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Bedlington Terrier colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
The Bedlington Terrier belongs to the Terrier group and originates from England. Adults typically weigh between 17 and 23 pounds, standing 15 to 17 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 11 to 16 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $134 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Bedlington Terrier Colors Overview
All Bedlington puppies are born dark and lighten with age, with the progressive graying gene causing blue dogs to fade from black and liver dogs from chocolate.. Breed standards outline which colors are accepted for conformation showing.
Color inheritance involves multiple genes, including the E (extension), A (agouti), K (dominant black), and B (brown) loci. DNA testing can predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive color genes.
All Bedlington Terrier Colors
The Bedlington Terrier is recognized in 6 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Bedlington Terriers make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Bedlington Terrier Colors
Standard colors (6): Blue, Liver, Sandy, Blue and Tan, Liver and Tan, Sandy and Tan. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Bedlington Terriers are typically priced within the normal $1000–$2000 range.
How Color Affects Bedlington Terrier Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($1000–$2000) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$600–$1000) |
While color can influence the price of a Bedlington Terrier puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Bedlington Terrier in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Bedlington Terriers is $1000–$2000, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Bedlington Terrier Coat Type and Grooming
The Bedlington Terrier's crisp, curly, linty-textured coat coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 5/5 and shedding at 1/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
This breed requires significant coat maintenance. Daily or near-daily brushing prevents matting, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat healthy. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks maintains proper coat length and condition. Budget $67–66 per month for grooming expenses, and invest in quality grooming tools including appropriate brushes, combs, and dematting tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Bedlington Terriers benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Bedlington Terrier Coat Genetics
Bedlington Terrier coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.
DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. All Bedlington puppies are born dark and lighten with age, with the progressive graying gene causing blue dogs to fade from black and liver dogs from chocolate..
Rare vs Standard Bedlington Terrier Colors
Rare Bedlington Terrier colors can be fascinating from a genetics perspective, but proceed with caution. All Bedlington puppies are born dark and lighten with age, with the progressive graying gene causing blue dogs to fade from black and liver dogs from chocolate.. Premium pricing for unusual colors beyond the standard $1000–$2000 range does not guarantee quality breeding.
The best approach is to choose a Bedlington Terrier breeder who health-tests thoroughly for Copper Toxicosis and Retinal Dysplasia and produces well-tempered dogs, regardless of coat color.
Do Bedlington Terrier Colors Change with Age?
Bedlington Terrier puppies often look quite different from their adult selves. With 6 recognized color varieties, coat color may lighten, darken, or develop new markings during the transition from puppy to adult coat, typically between 4 and 12 months. All Bedlington puppies are born dark and lighten with age, with the progressive graying gene causing blue dogs to fade from black and liver dogs from chocolate..
Choosing a Bedlington Terrier by Color
When selecting a Bedlington Terrier puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Copper Toxicosis. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 6 recognized Bedlington Terrier colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
When shopping for a Bedlington Terrier, be skeptical of breeders who advertise unusual colors at prices above $2000. Non-standard colors beyond Blue, Liver, Sandy, Blue and Tan, Liver and Tan, Sandy and T can indicate mixed breeding or genes linked to health issues. All Bedlington puppies are born dark and lighten with age, with the progressive graying gene causing blue dogs to fade from black and liver dogs from chocolate..
Frequently Asked Questions
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