Choosing a Lakeland Terrier

The Lakeland terrier is a long legged terrier that looks like he is standing on his toes. Looking similar to a Welsh terrier, the Lakeland is a cheerful and loyal companion.

History and Origin

The Lakeland terrier originated in the Lake District of northern England. The breed was developed to hunt den animals such as the badger and fox in the rugged shale mountains and is thought to be related to the Bedlington and the Old English wirehaired terrier. The Lakeland terrier is also a good companion.

In 1934, the Lakeland terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club as a member of the terrier group.

Appearance and Size

The Lakeland terrier is a long legged terrier with a compact body. The head is long and rectangular in shape. The eyes are set wide apart and the ears are v shaped and fold over. The tail is docked and set high.

The coat of the Lakeland terrier is wiry with a soft undercoat.

The hair of the muzzle and legs are longer than the hair on the body. The face is trimmed so that it looks rectangular. The color can be red, grizzle, wheaten, blue and tan, liver and tan, black and tan and solid liver or tan.

The adult Lakeland terrier stands around 13 to 14 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 15 to 17 pounds.

Personality

The Lakeland terrier is a fearless and loving dog. A bit willful, this breed is a good family companion. Some can be territorial and guard their food and toys.

Home and Family Relations

The Lakeland terrier is a great family dog that does well in the city or country. The breed can do well with children if introduced to them at an early age. This terrier is very protective of his family and will bark when strangers approach.

The Lakeland terrier can live happily in an apartment as long as he is taken on daily walks. This breed can live with other pets but may chase household cats.

Training

The Lakeland terrier can be stubborn and independent and will eventually learn obedience with patience and persistence. Some can be difficult to housetrain.

Special Concerns

The Lakeland terrier does not like to be left alone with nothing to do. They are intelligent dogs and need mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors. As with other terriers, this breed tends to dig and bark if bored. This dog should not be allowed to roam off leash since he may chase small quick little creatures.

Common Diseases and Disorders

The Lakeland terrier is a hardy breed that has few known diseases. The most common are cataracts and other eye disorders.

The average life span of the Lakeland terrier is 12 to 15 years.


We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.