Bedlington Terrier vs German Pinscher

Terrier · Small vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • German Pinscher is the larger breed at 25–45 lbs (males) vs 17–23 lbs for the Bedlington Terrier.
  • The Bedlington Terrier typically lives longer (11–16 years).
  • The German Pinscher has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bedlington Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBedlington TerrierGerman Pinscher
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
16–17.5"17–20"
Height (female)
15–16.5"17–20"
Weight (male)
17–23 lbs25–45 lbs
Weight (female)
17–23 lbs25–45 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–16 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a spirited, demonstrative, mild lamb-shaped terrier — looks like a sheep, fights like a tiger. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–23 lbs and lives 11–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, demonstrative, mild.

About the German Pinscher

The German Pinscher is a spirited, smart, observant German farm and stable ratter — between Mini Pinscher and Doberman in size. Originally from Germany, this medium working breed typically weighs 25–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, smart, observant.

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Bedlington Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Copper toxicosis
  • Eye disorders
  • Patellar luxation

German Pinscher health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Heart problems