Table of Contents
| Height: | 36.8 to 39.4 cm |
| Weight: | 6.8 to 7.7 kg |
| Lifespan: | 12-15 years |
| Temperament: | Curious, intelligent and playful |
| Pedigree Breed? | Yes |
| Colours: | Black, Wheaten, Red, and Grizzle |
| Hair Type: | Harsh double coat |
| Most Suited to: | Families experienced with terriers |
Pros:
- Intelligent and quick-witted
- Spirited and lively personality
- Affectionate and loyal companions
- Suitable for active individuals or families
- Low-shedding breed
- Compact size and sturdy build
- Versatile hunting background
- Good with children when properly socialized
- Excellent watchdogs
- Long lifespan
Negatives:
- High energy levels and need for regular exercise
- Independent and strong-willed nature
- Prone to chasing small animals
- Requires meticulous grooming
- Potential health issues
- Reserved or aloof with strangers
- Not be suitable for households with small pets
- Some individuals may display territorial behaviours
- Spirited nature may require active engagement
- Not recommended for those seeking a low-maintenance breed
Lakeland Terriers are captivating dogs with lively and animated personalities. With their distinctive appearance and spirited nature, they have become a beloved breed among dog enthusiasts. These small yet sturdy terriers are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and courageous spirit. Let’s delve into the world of Lakeland Terriers and explore their fascinating characteristics, history, care requirements, and more.
The History of the Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century in the Lake District of England. They were primarily bred by farmers and gamekeepers to help control vermin populations on their properties. With their agile bodies and sharp instincts, these terriers were excellent hunters, efficiently eliminating pests such as rats and foxes.
As for their ancestry, Lakeland Terriers share a common lineage with other terrier breeds, such as the Bedlington Terrier, Border Terrier, and Dandie Dinmont Terrier. These breeds contributed to the development of the Lakeland Terrier’s unique traits and characteristics. Over time, they gained recognition as a distinct breed and garnered a loyal following.
Lakeland Terrier Appearance
One of the distinguishing features of the Lakeland Terrier is its rugged and wiry coat, which serves as protection from harsh elements. Their double coat consists of a dense, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat. The coat comes in various colours, including black, wheaten, red, and grizzle. Their small yet robust bodies stand at around 14.5 to 15.5 inches (36.8 to 39.4 cm) at the shoulder, and they typically weigh between 15 to 17 pounds (6.8 to 7.7 kg). Their compact size and sturdy build make them agile and capable of manoeuvring through challenging terrain.
Caring for a Lakeland Terrier
Grooming a Lakeland Terrier requires regular attention to maintain their distinctive coat and keep them looking their best. The wiry outer coat needs to be brushed regularly to prevent matting and tangling. Additionally, hand-stripping is a grooming technique recommended for Lakeland Terriers to maintain the texture and appearance of their coat. Hand-stripping involves manually removing dead hairs by plucking them out rather than cutting them with clippers.
In terms of exercise, Lakeland Terriers are energetic and require daily physical activity to keep them happy and healthy. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive toys that stimulate their minds are essential to prevent boredom and ensure they expend their energy in a positive manner. Mental stimulation through training exercises and puzzle toys is also beneficial for their overall well-being.
When it comes to nutrition, a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for maintaining the health and vitality of a Lakeland Terrier. It’s important to feed them high-quality dog food, taking into consideration their age, activity level, and any specific dietary needs they may have. Regular monitoring of their weight and adjusting their diet accordingly is also important to prevent obesity, as excess weight can lead to various health issues.
Personality
Lakeland Terriers are known for their confident and spirited personalities. They are intelligent, alert, and quick-witted, making them engaging companions. Their loyalty to their families is unwavering, and they form strong bonds with their human counterparts. However, they also possess a certain level of independence, which can be attributed to their terrier lineage.
These terriers thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy participating in activities that challenge their intellect. They are natural problem solvers and benefit from tasks that engage their problem-solving abilities. However, their independent nature may also manifest as stubbornness during training. It’s important to establish consistent rules, use positive reinforcement techniques, and provide firm yet gentle guidance to ensure successful training sessions.
Lakeland Terriers generally get along well with children and can form strong bonds with them. However, as with any dog breed, it’s crucial to supervise interactions between dogs and young children to ensure safety for both parties. Proper socialization from an early age can help them coexist peacefully with other pets in the household. However, it’s important to note that Lakeland Terriers have a strong prey drive and may exhibit chasing behaviour towards smaller animals. Careful introductions and ongoing supervision may be necessary when introducing them to other pets.
The health of the Lakeland Terrier
Lakeland Terriers are considered a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan averaging between 12 to 16 years. However, as with any dog breed, there are certain health conditions that are more prevalent among Lakeland Terriers. It’s essential to be aware of these potential health issues and take proactive measures to maintain their well-being.
Some common health concerns for Lakeland Terriers include:
- Lens Luxation: This is a condition where the lens of the eye becomes dislocated, which can lead to vision impairment or blindness. Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian are important for early detection and management.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: This is a condition characterized by the degeneration of the femoral head, leading to hip joint issues. Regular veterinary check-ups and appropriate exercise can help mitigate the risks associated with this condition.
- Allergies: Lakeland Terriers may be prone to various allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies, and skin allergies. Proper nutrition, a clean living environment, and regular grooming can help manage allergic reactions.
- Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, leading to a range of symptoms such as weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Regular blood tests can help diagnose and manage this condition.
It’s important to work closely with a reputable veterinarian who is familiar with the breed and can provide guidance on preventive measures and routine health care for your Lakeland Terrier.
Average Cost
When considering the cost of a Lakeland Terrier, several factors come into play. The price of a Lakeland Terrier puppy can vary depending on various factors, such as the breeder’s reputation, the lineage and quality of the puppy, and the geographical location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 (£1,000) to $3,000 (£2,250) for a well-bred Lakeland Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder.
In addition to the initial cost of acquiring a Lakeland Terrier, it’s important to consider ongoing expenses such as veterinary care, grooming, food, toys, and other supplies. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and preventive medications can contribute to the overall cost of owning a Lakeland Terrier.
When it comes to purchasing a Lakeland Terrier, it’s advisable to seek out reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs. Alternatively, rescue organizations or breed-specific rescues may have Lakeland Terriers available for adoption. Adoption fees are typically lower than purchasing from a breeder, and it’s a wonderful way to provide a loving home to a dog in need.
Crossbreeds
While the purebred Lakeland Terrier is a delightful breed, there is a growing interest in crossbreeding them with other breeds to create unique designer dogs. Here are a few examples of Lakeland Terrier crossbreeds:
- Lakeland Doodle (Lakeland Terrier + Poodle)
- Lakeland Patterdale (Lakeland Terrier + Patterdale Terrier)
- Lakeland Schnauzer (Lakeland Terrier + Miniature Schnauzer)
- Lakeland Cavapoo (Lakeland Terrier + Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Poodle)
Lakeland Terriers are charming, intelligent, and spirited companions. Their distinctive appearance, coupled with their playful and affectionate nature, makes them a delightful addition to any family. However, it’s important to understand their grooming needs, exercise requirements, and potential health concerns to provide them with the care they deserve. With proper care, training, and love, a Lakeland Terrier is one of the best terrier breeds you can own.