Dr. James Watuwa Last updated: 27th February 2026

Lucas Terrier

Dr. Watuwa James (MSc. WHM ,BVM) boasts a notable six-year track record in the care and management of diverse species, especially Wild Animels ,Dogs ,Cats and More.

Dr. James Watuwa Last updated: 27th February 2026

Bred for its sweet temperament, the Lucas Terrier is a breed of small, sturdy, working-terrier like dogs produced as a result of a cross between an existing Lucas Terrier and a small Sealyham Terrier or a Norfolk Terrier. The Lucas Terrier’s physical attributes include a broad skull, deep muzzle, black nose, dark, almond-shaped eyes, medium-sized, V-shaped ears, strong neck, broad shoulder blades, moderately broad chest, straight legs, and the tail is set neither too low nor too high.

Lucas Terrier Pictures

Quick Information

Coat	Medium length, fairly harsh, double, weather resistant
Color	Black and tan, saddle and tan, white, gray, or just tan
Breed Type	Crossbreed
Group	Terrier
Lifespan	12-15 years
Weight	Males: 14-20 lbs Females: 11-17 lbs
Size	Small
Height	Males: 10-12 in Females: 9-11 in
Shedding	Little
Temperament	Friendly, eager to please, intelligent
Hypoallergenic	Unknown
Litter Size	3-5 puppies
Good with Children	Yes
Barking	Occasional
Country Originated in	England
Competitive Registration/ Qualification Information	LTCUK, LTCA, DRA

Video: Lucas Terrier Playing with Toys

Other Similar Breeds

History

The 4th Baronet, Sir Jocelyn Morton Lucas was a twentieth-century British breeder who crossed a Norfolk Terrier with one of his Ilmer Sealyham Terriers, which were somewhat shorter in stature than the normal show Sealyhams of that era. The cross produced was named after Sir Jocelyn and several pedigrees of Lucas Terriers were developed since the 1940s.

When Sir Lucas became older, his kennels were run and controlled by Mrs. Enid Plummer. A few years before the death of Sir Jocelyn Lucas, Plummer went to Cornwall with the remaining dogs and continued the breeding program until her death in 1986.

After the death of Mrs. Plummer, the task of developing the breed was taken by Miss Jumbo Frost who played an important role in founding the Lucas Terrier Club, setting up breed standards, and widening the gene pool.

In 1999, a separate club called the Sporting Lucas Terrier Club was established for registering and promoting a type of terrier that has genes from Lucas Terrier and other breeds in its make-up.

Temperament and Behavior

Known for its biddable personality, the Lucas Terrier is a great companion that is always willing to please its owner. When indoors it is calm, quiet, and gentle and so is an absolute joy to live with.

Because of its Terrier ancestry, it is likely to bark and go after small animals such as a squirrel, chipmunk, and rabbit, as well as moving objects like a vehicle.

The Lucas Terrier is naturally good with kids but puppies can have a lively disposition, and so babies and toddlers should never be left unsupervised. It does not usually show aggression towards familiar people and dogs.

Care

Exercise

The moderately energetic Lucas Terrier loves to go on regular walks and enjoys a romp in a large, fenced yard. You may also let your dog play with balls and plush toys.

Grooming

Its grooming regimen generally involves weekly brushing and occasional bathing. Hand stripping may help in ridding your Lucas Terrier’s double-coat of dead hairs.

Health Problems

It is a sound and healthy breed, and no genetic health issues have been reported up until now.

Training

Since it is an intelligent and obedient dog, it can quickly learn to respond to positive, reward-based training.

Socialization
Regularly walking your dog around a public place will help it in becoming accustomed to the people around it. By taking different routes, your dog will get the chance to meet new people and pets. Anytime your Lucas Terrier succeeds in interacting positively with people or other dogs, give it a tasty treat.

Managing its chasing instinct
Chasing a fast-moving object is natural behavior for your Lucas Terrier, and so you should try to manage its preying instinct through other activities. Try some dog sports like Disc Dog, throwing a ball or Frisbee, or exercising with a fleece lure toy. Make sure that you teach your Lucas Terrier a command for starting and stopping the game so that it can associate the word with chasing an object.

Feeding

You may feed your Lucas Terrier quality dry food, as it will help in improving its dental health. If you wish to make its food at home, you may include a mix of vegetables like potatoes and carrots with some oats and brown rice.

FAQ’s

What is the typical temperament of a Lucas Terrier?

Lucas Terriers are known for being friendly, intelligent, and affectionate. They tend to be good with families and enjoy social interaction, but they can be wary of strangers. Early socialization helps ensure a well-balanced temperament.

How big do Lucas Terriers usually get?

Lucas Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 15 to 20 pounds and standing about 12 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them suitable for apartment living as well as larger homes.

Do Lucas Terriers shed a lot and how should they be groomed?

Lucas Terriers have a wiry, low-shedding coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping or trimming will keep their coat healthy and neat.

Are Lucas Terriers easy to train for first-time dog owners?

Lucas Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which generally makes training easier. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best, but they can be somewhat independent, so patience and early training are important.

What health issues should I watch for in a Lucas Terrier?

Lucas Terriers are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to monitor their health and catch any issues early.

Are Lucas Terriers good with children and other pets?

Lucas Terriers usually get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized from a young age. Supervision is advised with young children to ensure gentle interactions, and gradual introductions help with other animals.

How much exercise does a Lucas Terrier need daily?

Lucas Terriers require moderate daily exercise, such as a couple of 30-minute walks and some playtime. They enjoy mental stimulation as well, so interactive games or training sessions can help keep them happy and healthy.

What is the average lifespan and cost to adopt a Lucas Terrier?

Lucas Terriers typically live between 12 to 14 years with proper care. Adoption or purchase costs vary widely, but expect to pay around $800 to $1,200 from reputable breeders or rescue organizations; adoption fees may be lower and often include vaccinations and spaying/neutering.