The Bedlington Terrier bears a striking resemblance to a lamb. It is very different from what most terriers look like. It is roach backed, with an unusual tightly curled coat, not typical of the terrier coat in that it is not "wiry" nor should it be stripped as the terrier coat is. They are swift of foot, still possessing all the capabilities of a terrier for catching prey, being especially eager to give chase and catch rabbits. Although in past centuries they were a "go to ground" terrier they evolved into a breed with longer legs and a body similar in type to that of the Whippet and have been used most extensively as a rabbit hunter. For many years they were termed the "gypsy's dog" for the poaching of rabbits was often the gypsies' means of obtaining the meat for the supper pot and nearly every wandering tribe had these dogs for that purpose. However, the Bedlington gradually found its way into the homes of the aristocrats and it became a favorite of the upper classes in Great Britain.