A Healthy Bedlington Is A Happy Bedlington!
Longevity and Quality of Life Begins with Responsible Breeding Practices and Health Testing
Bedlington Terriers are typically robust healthy dogs, with an average lifespan ranging from 11 to 16 years. However, like all dogs, Bedlingtons are susceptible to certain hereditary health conditions, including Copper Storage Disease (CSD) affecting the liver, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Cataracts affecting the eyes, and Patellar Luxation in the knee joint. Responsible breeders take proactive measures to screen for these genetic concerns before selecting a breeding pair. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, ensuring regular exercise, and scheduling routine veterinary check-ups are essential to prevent more common health issues affecting sires and dams.
The Bedlington Terrier Club of America’s Health & Wellness Committee was established in 2004 as an evolution of the original Health Survey Committee. The transition marked a renewed focus on the health and well-being of Bedlington Terriers, reflecting the club’s commitment to providing comprehensive support and guidance to its members regarding canine health concerns.
The primary mission of the Health & Wellness Committee is to serve as a trusted information resource on health-related issues affecting Bedlington Terriers. The committee is dedicated to gathering, reviewing, and disseminating accurate and up-to-date health information to all BTCA members. By doing so, the committee helps ensure that breeders, owners, and enthusiasts are well-informed about best practices in care, prevention, and treatment of common and emerging health conditions.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), in partnership with the Bedlington Terrier Club of America (BTCA) and other national breed organizations, established the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC). Furthermore, the OFA, together with the BTCA, has developed recommended protocols for breed-specific health screenings, aimed at enhancing the well-being of purebred dogs.
Health screenings recommend by the Bedlington Terrier Club of America:
- Copper Storage Disease Test (formally known as Copper Toxicosis) from an approved laboratory. This is the most significant inherited health issue in Bedlington Terriers. Copper Storage Disease (CSD) is a disorder where the liver is unable to properly excrete copper, leading to a toxic buildup that can cause serious liver damage or failure. Fortunately, a DNA test is available to identify clear, carrier and affected dogs for the COMMD1 deletion which causes this condition. A second risk has been identified but there is currently no test, and this is a very rare cause for CSD in Bedlingtons. Selective breeding has greatly reduced CSD’s prevalence in the breed. Responsible, reputable breeders have tested their dogs for several generations and should be happy to discuss this with the new or potential owners. Dietary management and supplements may help affected dogs.
- Patellar Luxation Veterinary evaluation of Patellar Luxation. This orthopedic issue involves the kneecap slipping out of place, which can cause discomfort and mobility problems.
- ACVO Eye Exam An eye exam by a veterinary Ophthalmologist once the dog has reached twelve months. They look for a variety of conditions found in all dogs that include but not limited to: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A hereditary condition causing gradual vision loss and eventual blindness. Retinal Dysplasia: Abnormal development of the retina, which can affect vision. Cataracts: Cloudiness in the lens.
Bedlington Terriers that successfully complete all recommended health screenings may apply and be granted a CHIC number and corresponding certification. The results of these screenings are publicly accessible, promoting transparency within the breeding community. While the Bedlington Terrier Club of America encourages breeders to participate in these screenings and supports the efforts of the OFA and CHIC database, registration with CHIC is not a mandatory requirement for breeders. Most member breeders perform the recommended health screenings but may or may not register with CHIC.