How to Groom a Bedlington Terrier

Introduction to Grooming Needs of Bedlington Terriers

Bedlington Terriers are renowned for their distinctive curly and woolly coat that gives them a lamb-like appearance. This breed comes in a variety of colors, including blue, liver, and sandy. While their coat is hypoallergenic and doesn’t shed much, it does require regular grooming to maintain its shape and health. The texture of their coat is a mix of soft and harsh, making it unique compared to other breeds. Due to this unique coat texture and the desired “lamb-like” appearance, grooming a Bedlington Terrier can be a bit more challenging than grooming other breeds. However, with the right techniques and understanding of their coat, the grooming process can be smooth and rewarding.

Brushing Basics

Regular brushing is essential for Bedlington Terriers to prevent matting and tangling of their curly coat.

Types of Brushes Suitable for Bedlington Terriers:

• Slicker Brush: This brush is ideal for removing tangles and mats. Its fine, short wires can easily penetrate the coat and gently remove any knots.
• Pin Brush: Suitable for the softer parts of their coat, a pin brush helps in maintaining the coat’s fluffiness and removing loose hairs.
• Metal Comb: A comb with both wide and narrow teeth can be beneficial for the final touch-ups and ensuring there are no hidden tangles.

Techniques for Brushing:

• Always brush in the direction of hair growth.
• Start from the head and move towards the tail.
• Be gentle around sensitive areas like the belly and ears.
• Regularly check for mats, especially in areas like behind the ears and under the legs.

Bath Time: How Often and What to Use

Bedlington Terriers don’t require frequent baths, but it’s essential to keep them clean to maintain the health of their unique coat. A monthly bath is generally sufficient unless the dog gets particularly dirty.

Selecting Dog-Appropriate Shampoos:

• Choose a hypoallergenic shampoo as Bedlingtons have sensitive skin.
• A moisturizing conditioner can help in keeping their coat soft and manageable.
• Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals or strong fragrances.

Ensuring a Stress-Free Bathing Experience:

• Always brush the coat before a bath to remove tangles.
• Use lukewarm water and ensure the dog is comfortable throughout the process.
• Rinse thoroughly to ensure no shampoo residue remains.
• Dry the dog with a soft towel and avoid using high heat blow dryers.

Nail Trimming: Tips and Precautions

Regular nail trims are crucial for Bedlington Terriers to ensure their comfort and prevent overgrowth that can lead to painful ingrown nails or affect their gait.

Tools to Use:

• Guillotine Nail Clippers: Designed specifically for dogs, these clippers encircle the nail and cut with a single blade.
• Scissor Clippers: These work like regular scissors and are suitable for larger nails.
• Grinding Tools: These are electric tools that grind down the nail, offering a smoother finish.

Techniques for Safe Nail Trimming:

• Ensure your dog is calm before starting. You can achieve this by petting them or giving them treats.
• Hold the paw firmly but gently.
• Trim a small amount at a time to avoid cutting into the quick, which can cause pain and bleeding.
• If you accidentally cut the quick, apply styptic powder to stop the bleeding.
• Always reward your dog after the session to create a positive association.

Addressing Shedding in Bedlington Terriers

While Bedlington Terriers are low-shedding dogs, they still lose some hair, especially during seasonal changes.

Shedding Patterns:

• Bedlington Terriers typically shed minimally, with slight increases during spring and fall.
• Regular grooming can help in managing and reducing even this minimal shedding.

Managing and Reducing Shedding:

• Regular brushing helps in removing loose hairs and stimulates the skin.
• Ensure a balanced diet as nutrition plays a vital role in coat health.
• Regular check-ups with the vet can ensure there are no underlying health issues causing excessive shedding.

Safe Grooming Practices and Potential Challenges

Grooming a Bedlington Terrier requires patience and knowledge of the breed’s specific needs.

Importance of Using Dog-Specific Products:

• Always use products formulated for dogs as they cater to their pH levels and skin sensitivities.
• Avoid human products as they can cause irritations or allergic reactions.

Watching Out for Skin Irritations:

• Regularly check for signs of redness, bumps, or rashes.
• If you notice any irritation, consult with a veterinarian.

Addressing Grooming Challenges:

• Mats can form in the curly coat, especially in areas of friction like the armpits. Regular brushing can prevent this.
• The unique “lamb-like” cut requires a professional groomer familiar with the breed for best results.