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Bedlington Terrier vs Golden Retriever

Discover the differences between Bedlington Terrier and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.

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Bedlington Terrier
England

Bedlington Terrier

Terrier Group
Medium

Gentle, energetic, and unmistakable with a lamb-like appearance, this breed thrives as a loving family companion. Always alert yet affectionate, Bedlington Terriers adapt well to active households.

Golden Retriever
Scotland

Golden Retriever

Sporting Group
Large

A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.

Quick comparison

Size:

Medium

Male:

8–10 kg

Coat:

Curly, linty texture

Lifespan:

12–16 years

Female:

7–9 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Large

Male:

29–34 kg

Coat:

Double coat, water-repellent

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

25–29 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Bedlington Terrier

Friendliness
4/5

Generally sociable with family and familiar people

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
4/5

Active and needs regular physical exercise

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to different living environments

Golden Retriever

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs

Intelligence
5/5

Quick to learn commands and routines

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and mental stimulation

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Bedlington Terrier

Grooming:
High grooming needs (weekly trimming)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Quick learner
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Copper toxicosis, patellar luxation

Golden Retriever

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Heavy shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Bedlington Terrier

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Gentle and adaptable, Bedlington Terriers can suit first-time owners willing to train.

Apartment Living
5/5

Very suitable

Their size and moderate activity needs make them comfortable in apartments.

Active Lifestyle
4/5

Great match

They enjoy regular exercise and play, fitting well with active lifestyles.

Kids
3/5

Generally suitable

They are patient but supervision is needed due to their Terrier instincts.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

They can live with other pets if socialized early and properly introduced.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not recommended

Bedlington Terriers can become bored or anxious if left alone for long periods.

Golden Retriever

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage

Apartment Living
2/5

Needs space

Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Highly suitable

Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people

Kids
5/5

Perfect fit

Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children

Multiple Pets
5/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Bedlington Terrier

  • Gentle with children and family pets
  • Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
  • Alert and effective watchdog
  • Energetic and enjoys regular exercise
  • Intelligent and learns commands quickly

Golden Retriever

  • Friendly with children and other pets
  • Highly trainable and eager to please
  • Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
  • Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
  • Strong retrieving and swimming abilities

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Bedlington Terrier

  • Needs frequent grooming to prevent matting
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • Prone to copper toxicosis genetic disorder
  • May chase small animals due to prey drive
  • Sensitive to harsh discipline or loud environments

Golden Retriever

  • Prone to obesity without portion control
  • High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
  • Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
  • Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

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