By Avatar photoShiloh Nevada Last updated: 28th October 2022

Lakeland Terrier

By

Avatar photo Shiloh Nevada
Last updated: 28th October 2022

The Lakeland Terrier is a working terrier dog that was mainly created to protect the sheep and the crops from the foxes and vermin, and to hunt them down. This square-built, sturdy little dog is much similar in features to the Welsh Terrier, both of which originated in the United Kingdom (Northern London). The Lakeland dog has a rectangular face ending in a dark muzzle, studded with oval-shaped eyes that can be black to brown, and small v-shaped folded ears. Their proportionately long and strongly-built legs have given them the ability of quick movement.

Lakeland Terrier Pictures

Quick Information

CoatThick, double (Inner coat: soft, Outer coat: wired)
ColorRed, Brown, Black, Black and Tan, Blue
Group (of Breed)Terrier (working)
Lifespan12 to 16 years
Weight15 – 18 pounds
Height (size)14 – 15 inches
SheddingMinimal
TemperamentIntelligent, independent, affectionate, brave
Good with ChildYes
Litter Size3 – 5 puppies
HypoallergenicYes
BarkingVery moderate
Originated in UK
Competitive RegistrationCKC, FCI, AKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, CET, APRI, ACR, DRA, NAPR, ACA

Lakeland Terrier Video


History

Most breed experts are of the opinion that the Lakeland Terrier was developed by crossing various terriers – which may include the Bedlington, the Border, the Welsh, the Dandie Dinmont and the Wire-haired Fox terriers.

The Lakeland Terrier Association was formed in 1921 in England. The UK Kennel Club claims to have recognized the breed in 1921, however, the date has been disputed to be 1928 by the Lakeland Terrier Club. The American Kennel Club recognized it in 1934.

Initially, these terriers were exhibited in England under various names like Patterdale and Fell Terrier.

Temperament and Behavior

The AKC standard has described them as “bold, gay and friendly, with a confident, cock-of-the-walk attitude”. Lakeland Terriers exhibit a good amount of chasing instincts by their typical digging behavior and tendency to get aggressive towards other animals. These independent and intelligent terriers at times tend to become obsessive barkers. They are good with other dogs and children though, and would display a loving, cheerful or mischievous nature. They are reserved with strangers. However, once their interest is aroused, they would even act stubborn and might as well be selectively deaf. The dog is suitable for apartment life and can prove to be a successful watchdog.

Care

Exercise

These average-built, energetic terriers need to do regular activities in order to satisfy their hunter instinct, without which, they might display intense behavioral issues. Take them out for jogs or long walks for 20-30 minutes daily, or just allow them to run with your bicycle and indulge them playing unleashed in a safe area. Sports activities such as catch, throw-and-fetch, etc. should also prove to be effective.

Grooming

Although a very minimal shedder, the long hair of the Lakie demands much attention. Consider stripping their hair by hand or a stripping tool and shaping the coat three to four times yearly. However, brushing their coat at least twice a week is necessary. This should include the hairs covering their eyes as also those in between their toe pads. Regular combing should be followed by a simple towel-rubdown for removing excess body oil and all that dirt and debris. This would eliminate the need for frequent bathing. Trim its nails fortnightly and brush its teeth once every two to three days.

Health Problems

These dogs are healthy and hardy and generally do not suffer from any known hereditary issues. However, choosing a healthy puppy while adopting it from the breeder, especially those who abide by the U. S. Lakeland Terrier Club code of ethics, is important.

Training

With its excellent ability to pick up training readily, it is not much hectic to train them, except for housebreaking. Be consistent but affectionate while you train your dog. The lakie would also respond to crate training quickly. These dogs enjoy challenges and varieties in training, and need to be socialized by getting them acquainted with other animals and pets. Also, to avoid developing pack leader/small dog syndrome, lead your dog or keep it beside you, while you are out for a walk, and never allow it to lead. You can also use treats for training purposes.

Feeding

If you rely upon quality dog foods like ‘Purina Pro Plan Growth’, ½ to 1 cup per day divided into two equal feedings should be enough for your puppy. However, you can also add fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples (except onions), as also boiled rice, cottage cheese or yogurt to this, for extra benefit. You can also feed your puppy twice, especially if it is left alone for a long periods of time. For that, try out foods like ‘Eukanuba’. Adding 1-2 tablespoons of canned food like Pedigree Pal and additives like a teaspoon of flax seed oil or any corn oil in the morning are also recommended. When your pup is 4 months old, start adding 500 mgs of Vitamin C tablet/powder regularly in its food. However, it is better to avoid snacks, except treats like ‘milk bone’ during its bedtime.

Interesting Facts

  • The Lakeland Terrier derives its name from England’s Lake District, where it first originated.
  • The pups are often born black but would often alter their color with age.
  • ‘Stingray’ of Derryabah, which was the first Lakeland Terrier that won the ‘Best in Show’ at Crufts in 1967 and again at America’s Westminster show the next year.
  • The tail of these dogs is set high and is generally docked.
  • These dogs might be possessive about their food and toys.

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