Bedlington Terrier vs Irish Wolfhound

Terrier · Small vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 17–23 lbs for the Bedlington Terrier.
  • The Bedlington Terrier typically lives longer (11–16 years).
  • The Bedlington Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bedlington Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBedlington TerrierIrish Wolfhound
Group
TerrierHound
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
EnglandIreland
Height (male)
16–17.5"32–34"
Height (female)
15–16.5"30–32"
Weight (male)
17–23 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
17–23 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–16 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedwirehaired
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 Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

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Bedlington Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Copper toxicosis
  • Eye disorders
  • Patellar luxation

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia