Huntaway vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison

Huntaway vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed ComparisonHuntaway is originated from New Zealand but Bedlington Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Huntaway may grow 22 cm / 9 inches higher than Bedlington Terrier. Huntaway may weigh 35 kg / 78 pounds more than Bedlington Terrier. Both Huntaway and Bedlington Terrier has same life span. Both Huntaway and Bedlington Terrier has almost same litter size. Both Huntaway and Bedlington Terrier requires Low maintenance.

History

huntaway - historyThe Huntaway or New Zealand Huntaway is a herding dog that originated in the New Zealand sheep country. Their main purpose is to drive sheep and they are not an old breed. They were developed late in the 19th century for their working skills. The only real criteria was that they were black and tan. A dog must win a trial in order to be placed in the New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association studbook. They drive sheep mainly through their deep, loud voice.

In the New Zealand high country there was a need for a working dog with stamina, agility and intelligence to work the sheep as a drover (herder). The dog had to be able to handle rough, steep land and work with very large groups of sheep. The sheer area of land that the sheep graze and the dog would have to cover, demanded that this dog have stamina and strength to cover large pasture land and work for days if necessary. Before this the shepherds had used British sheepdogs but they preferred dogs that barked while working. So they bred the British Sheepdogs with Collies, Border Collies, Labrador, Rottweiler, Doberman and other barking sheepdogs to create the Huntaway. In addition to the bark, they bred for stamina and size.

They were participating in field trails in 1870 and ads for them were seen in newspapers by 1884. They became a separate breed in the 20th century. Today they are spreading around the world and are becoming very popular. It is not recommended that they be kept as pets however, since they are true working dogs.

bedlington terrier - historyOriginally 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.

Description

huntaway puppy - descriptionThe Huntaway is a large dog with a deep chest and a black and tan coat. They are strong, big and muscular with voices to match. They herd, head, work the sheep in pastures and force them into pens. They are bred to have that big authoritative, deep bark. They do not yap. Their bodies are well proportioned but longer than high. They have well - padded feet and a deep chest for stamina, along with strong legs and body that allows them to run fast and change directions at will.

The tail of a Huntaway if long, while their heads are shaped like blocks while the muzzle is long and the nose is black. They have dark, round eyes and long ears. An unusually attractive dog, they have dense fur with fringe on the tail and chest. There is characteristics a very large variety in the in the way the breed looks from one dog to the next. Thus they do not participate in confirmation events, as the standard is based on working characteristics rather than appearance guidelines. They are more a “class” than a “breed”.

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.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

huntaway dog - characteristicsThey are very good with children and love to play with them.

Special talents

Stamina, speed and independence

Adaptability

Not really. Don’t do well in small spaces. Better off in the country.

Learning ability

Very intelligent, quick learner, loves learning new things.

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.

Health Problems

huntaway puppies - health problemsThe Huntaway is a pretty healthy breed, developed as it was from the sheepdogs and collies. They still face some inherited issues such as:

  • Hip dysplasia – can cause lameness and arthritis
  • Cancer of bone – life threatening
  • Ear Infections – long eared dogs are prone to infections
  • Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (MPS IIIA) – rare metabolic issue can cause neurological problems.
  • Dilated Caridomyopathy (DCM) – enlarged heart can cause heart failure

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.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the Puppy

huntaway dogs - caringIf you are not using your Huntaway to herd, then feed a medium formula not a high protein, high calorie formula. Feed 3-4 times a day and 1-2 cups.

Feeding the adult

3 cups per day feeding twice a day high quality medium calorie food.

Points for Good Health

Exceptional stamina

Games and Exercises

This herding breed has a great need of mental and physical stimulation. They were born to herd and to do so over vast tracts of land in challenging conditions. They need to be challenged. They need daily exercise at a very high level. A Run them every day or take them on a couple of long walks. They will excel in field trials, Barnhunt, agility and rescue. They love to learn.

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.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Terrier dog
Origin:
New Zealand
United Kingdom
Height Male:
56 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
41 - 44 cm
16 - 18 inches
Height Female:
52 - 62 cm
20 - 25 inches
38 - 42 cm
14 - 17 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 46 kg
55 - 102 pounds
6 - 11 kg
13 - 25 pounds
Weight Female:
20 - 35 kg
44 - 78 pounds
6 - 11 kg
13 - 25 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 7
3 - 6
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
New Zealand Huntaway, New Zealand Sheepdog
Rothbury Terrier, Rodbery Terrier, Rothbury's Lamb
Colors Available:
commonly black and tan, tricolour, variable
Blue, Liver, Sandy, Tan
Coat:
smooth or rough
medium, thick and linty
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Responsive, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Old English Sheepdog vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  2. Rough Collie vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  3. Saarlooswolfhond vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  4. Huntaway vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Huntaway vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  6. Huntaway vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  7. Huntaway vs Briard - Breed Comparison
  8. Huntaway vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  9. Huntaway vs East German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Huntaway vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  11. Huntaway vs Czechoslovakian Wolfdog - Breed Comparison
  12. Perro de Pastor Mallorquin vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  13. South Russian Ovcharka vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  14. Mioritic Sheepdog vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  15. Samoyed vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  16. Mixed vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  17. Presa Canario vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  18. Perro de Presa Canario vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  19. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  20. Saluki vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  21. Mountain Cur vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  22. Rajapalayam vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  23. Schnauzerdor vs Huntaway - Breed Comparison
  24. Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Schnauzer vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Fox Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  27. Bull and Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  28. Bedlington Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  29. Bedlington Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  30. Bedlington Terrier vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  31. Bedlington Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Irish Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  33. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Kerry Blue Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Lakeland Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Jagdterrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  37. Blue Paul Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  38. Indian Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  39. Irish Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  40. Japanese Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  41. Brazilian Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  42. Old English Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  43. Scoland Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  44. Skye Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  45. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  47. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  48. Welsh Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds