Lakeland Terrier
Confident, Spirited, Alert, Fearless, English Terrier, Energetic Companion
The Lakeland Terrier is a small, tough minded terrier with a bright expression and a fearless streak. Originally bred in England’s Lake District to work around farms and hunt foxes, this breed is confident, quick, and always ready for action. With the right training and daily play, Lakelands can be affectionate family dogs, but they still carry that classic terrier attitude and love to chase.
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Know your Lakeland Terrier
Breed Group: Terrier
Size: Small
Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 15-17 pounds
Coat Type: Dense, wiry, harsh outer coat with a soft undercoat; requires regular hand-stripping to maintain texture
Coat Colors: Black & tan, red, wheaten, grizzle, blue, liver, and combinations with saddle markings or speckling
Temperament: Bold, curious, and full of confidence. Lakelands are often cheerful with their people, but they can be independent and determined when something grabs their attention. Many are playful and affectionate at home, yet quick to react to movement outdoors, so early training and good recall are important. They usually do best with owners who enjoy an active little dog with a strong personality.
Energy Level: High. Thrives with consistent physical and mental activity, and enjoys having a job to do.
Good with Children: Yes
Good with Other Pets: No
Trainability: Moderate to High (clever and quick to learn but may test boundaries due to an independent streak; responds best to firm, fun, and positive reinforcement training)
Barking Tendency: Moderate to High (vocal when excited, bored, or guarding; early training helps manage excessive barking)
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Health Issues: Lens Luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease, skin allergies, and hypothyroidism; regular vet visits and genetic testing can help prevent or manage these issues.
Exercise Requirements: High; needs daily walks, off-leash play in secure areas, interactive toys, digging activities, and opportunities for agility or terrier sports.
Hypoallergenic: Yes
History: The Lakeland Terrier hails from England's Lake District, where it was developed to hunt and eliminate foxes that preyed on sheep. Its compact, agile frame allowed it to pursue quarry through narrow rock crevices and dense brush. Bred from a mix of early terriers such as the Bedlington, Border, and Fox Terrier, the Lakeland gained popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries for its bold personality and reliable hunting skills. Today, the breed is more often found as a spirited companion that retains its original fire and zest for life.
