Bedlington Terrier vs Lagotto Romagnolo

Choosing between Bedlington Terrier and Lagotto Romagnolo? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Lagotto Romagnolo is the higher-energy of the two, while Bedlington Terrier is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Bedlington Terrier vs Lagotto Romagnolo: full comparison

TraitBedlington TerrierLagotto Romagnolo
SizeMediumMedium
Energy levelMediumHigh
TrainabilityMediumHigh
FriendlinessHighHigh
Good with childrenHighHigh
Grooming needsVery HighVery High
SheddingVery LowVery Low
BarkingLowMedium
ProtectivenessMediumMedium
AdaptabilityHighMedium
Typical lifespan14 years15 years
HypoallergenicYesYes

Size and living space

The Bedlington Terrier is a mid-sized breed that settles into most homes, although a yard makes life easier. By comparison, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a mid-sized breed that settles into most homes, although a yard makes life easier. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Bedlington Terrier wants a decent walk or two each day and some playtime. The Lagotto Romagnolo demands substantial daily activity, from long walks to hard play. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Bedlington Terrier demands daily coat care plus professional grooming to stay in shape and sheds almost nothing, so your sofa stays clear. The Lagotto Romagnolo demands daily coat care plus professional grooming to stay in shape and sheds almost nothing, so your sofa stays clear. Both are considered hypoallergenic, so either works well for allergy-conscious homes. Grooming upkeep is similar for both.

Temperament, training and family life

The Bedlington Terrier trains reasonably well with regular positive sessions, speaks up only now and then and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. The Lagotto Romagnolo learns quickly and enjoys the training process, barks a fair amount, usually for a reason and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. On guarding instinct, Bedlington Terrier will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive, whereas Lagotto Romagnolo will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Bedlington Terrier if you want a more adaptable dog, you want a calmer, lower-energy companion, or you prefer a quieter dog.

Choose the Lagotto Romagnolo if you want an easier dog to train, you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure, or you want a longer-lived breed.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Bedlington Terrier or the Lagotto Romagnolo better for families with children?
Both the Bedlington Terrier and the Lagotto Romagnolo are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Bedlington Terrier or the Lagotto Romagnolo?
The Bedlington Terrier and Lagotto Romagnolo shed a similar amount (very low).
Which is easier to train, the Bedlington Terrier or the Lagotto Romagnolo?
The Lagotto Romagnolo is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.
Is Bedlington Terrier or Lagotto Romagnolo bigger?
Bedlington Terrier and Lagotto Romagnolo are a similar size (Medium).
Which barks more, Bedlington Terrier or Lagotto Romagnolo?
Lagotto Romagnolo tends to be the more vocal of the two, so Bedlington Terrier is the quieter choice.
Which is better for apartment living, Bedlington Terrier or Lagotto Romagnolo?
For apartment or apartment living, Bedlington Terrier has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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