Bedlington Terrier vs Poodle
Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
Bedlington Terrier
A lamb-like terrier with a curly, non-shedding coat that belies a bold, athletic spirit. Bedlington Terriers are graceful, charming companions that can sprint like a whippet and cuddle like a lap dog.
VS
Poodle
One of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Poodle combines elegance with athleticism. Their hypoallergenic curly coat and keen mind make them ideal for allergy sufferers who want a trainable companion.
Quick Answer
Choose Bedlington Terrier if you want more apartment-friendly. Choose Poodle if you want easier to train and better health.
Quick Comparison
Bedlington Terrier
Attribute
Poodle
medium
Size
medium
8–10 kg (18–22 lbs)
Weight
18–32 kg (40–71 lbs)
38–44 cm (15–17 in)
Height
38–61 cm (15–24 in)
11–16 yrs
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
4/5
Trainability
5/5Better
3/5
Energy
4/5
4/5
Good with Kids
4/5
1/5
Shedding
1/5
Better4/5
Grooming
5/5
Better4/5
Apartment
3/5
3/5
Health
4/5Better
$1,500–$2,500
Price
$1,000–$3,000
Attribute Comparison
Size & Build: Bedlington Terrier vs Poodle
Poodle is the larger breed; Bedlington Terrier is more compact.
Bedlington Terrier
Poodle
Weight (kg)
8–10
vs18–32
Height (cm)
38–44
vs38–61
You'll notice the size difference immediately. The Poodle stands 38–61 cm (15–24 in) tall and weighs 18–32 kg (40–71 lbs), making it considerably larger than the Bedlington Terrier at 38–44 cm (15–17 in) and 8–10 kg (18–22 lbs).
Temperament Differences: Bedlington Terrier and Poodle
Bedlington Terrier is calmer; Poodle is more energetic.
Bedlington Terrier
Poodle
Playfulness
4/5
vs5/5Better
Barking Level
Better2/5
vs3/5
Energy
3/5
vs4/5
The Bedlington Terrier and Poodle bring very different personalities to the table. Bedlington Terriers are gentle, spirited and charming, while Poodles tend to be intelligent, elegant and athletic.
How Much Exercise Do Bedlington Terriers vs Poodles Need?
Poodle needs more exercise; Bedlington Terrier is lower-maintenance.
Bedlington Terrier
Poodle
Energy Level
3/5
vs4/5
Exercise Needs
3/5
vs4/5
Apartment Friendly
Better4/5
vs3/5
The Poodle needs slightly more exercise (4/5) than the Bedlington Terrier (3/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have high to moderate energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Poodle.
Bedlington Terrier vs Poodle: Common Health Issues
Poodle tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bedlington Terrier
Poodle
Lifespan (years)
11–16
vs12–15
Health Robustness
3/5
vs4/5Better
Both breeds have comparable lifespans — 11–16 years for the Bedlington Terrier and 12–15 years for the Poodle. You can expect a similar length of companionship from either breed, all else being equal.
Training: Bedlington Terrier vs Poodle
Poodle is generally easier to train.
Bedlington Terrier
Poodle
Trainability
4/5
vs5/5Better
Intelligence
4/5
vs5/5Better
The Poodle has a slight training edge (5/5 vs 4/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Poodle tends to catch on a bit faster.
Cost to Own: Bedlington Terrier vs Poodle
Bedlington Terrier is less expensive to own annually.
Bedlington Terrier
Avg. Purchase$2,000
Annual Food$420
Annual Vet$500
Annual Grooming$350
Annual Total$1,270 ✓
Poodle
Avg. Purchase$2,000
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$450
Annual Grooming$600
Annual Total$1,650
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,500–$2,500 for a Bedlington Terrier versus $1,000–$3,000 for a Poodle. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Bedlington Terrier vs Poodle: Grooming Routine and Shedding
Both breeds have similar grooming needs.
Bedlington Terrier
Poodle
Shedding
1/5
vs1/5
Grooming Needs
Better4/5
vs5/5
Both breeds shed at the same rate (1/5), so fur management will be identical for either choice. Neither breed will leave much hair around the house.
Bedlington Terrier or Poodle for Your Family?
Both breeds are similarly family-friendly.
Bedlington Terrier
Poodle
Good with Kids
4/5
vs4/5
Good with Dogs
3/5
vs4/5Better
Strangers
4/5
vs4/5
Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.
Summary — Bedlington Terrier or Poodle: Which Is Right for You?
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Bedlington Terrier if you value more apartment-friendly (4/5) and lower exercise needs (3/5).
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bedlington Terrier and Poodle are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Bedlington Terrier by roughly $400/year.
Choose Bedlington Terrier if...
- ✓You live in an apartment or don't have a yard — Bedlington Terriers adapt much better to smaller spaces (4/5 vs 3/5 apartment rating).
- ✓Budget matters to you — Bedlington Terriers cost roughly $400 less per year in food, vet, and grooming.
Choose Poodle if...
- ✓Long-term health costs concern you — Poodles are generally more robust (4/5 health score).
- ✓You have other dogs at home — Poodles tend to get along well with other dogs (4/5).
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bedlington Terrier or Poodle?
The Bedlington Terrier scores 4/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Poodle at 4/5. The Bedlington Terrier is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Bedlington Terrier or Poodle easier to train?
The Poodle is easier to train, scoring 5/5 versus the Bedlington Terrier's 4/5. The Poodle's eagerness to please makes training sessions more productive.
Which costs more, a Bedlington Terrier or Poodle?
A Bedlington Terrier puppy costs $1,500–$2,500 while a Poodle costs $1,000–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,270 for the Bedlington Terrier and $1,650 for the Poodle. The Poodle costs more to maintain annually.
Do Bedlington Terriers or Poodles live longer?
The Bedlington Terrier lives 11–16 years on average, while the Poodle lives 12–15 years. Both breeds have similar lifespans. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bedlington Terrier or Poodle live in an apartment?
The Bedlington Terrier is better suited for apartments (4/5) compared to the Poodle (3/5). The Bedlington Terrier is one of our top picks for apartment living.