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Owning a dog is a major responsibility and one that requires a lot of time and effort. Every dog needs regular training, socialising, walking and general care, but some need more maintenance than others.
Smooth-coated dogs like Patterdale Terriers require less grooming than wire-haired dogs like Lakeland Terriers. The wirey fur on a Lakeland doesn’t shed like a Patterdale’s, so it can mean less cleaning in your home.
However, it’s important to remember that although many individuals regard Lakeland Terriers and other non-shedding breeds as hypoallergenic, this isn’t always the case. While they don’t shed, most allergies are to dog dander, or the skin that comes away from their bodies, which every dog has. So, while symptoms might be reduced if you own a dog that doesn’t shed, there are no guarantees.
If you’ve got your heart set on a Lakeland Terrier, then you need to understand their grooming needs. These beautiful dogs have a unique double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking smart and healthy. Keep reading to find out more about everything you’ll need to do to ensure that your Lakeland’s coat is in tip-top condition.
The Lakeland Coat
The Lakeland Terrier has a distinctive wiry outer coat with a soft undercoat. The coarse outer hairs provide protection while the undercoat insulates the skin. This combination creates a weather-resistant coat that repels water and dirt.
However, all that coarse hair can become tangled and matted if not properly cared for. Regular grooming keeps the coat neat and prevents painful mats from forming close to the skin.
Grooming At Home
To keep your Lakeland looking dapper, you’ll need to brush your dog thoroughly once or twice a week. You might need to do it more often if your pup likes to get dirty or play in water! Use a slicker brush to remove dead hairs from the wiry topcoat. A metal comb helps detangle the undercoat and prevent mats.
Trimming the hair on your dog’s feet keeps them from tracking in dirt, so that’s another technique you should incorporate into your grooming routine. Use blunt-tipped scissors to neatly trim the fur between your dog’s foot pads. Bathing can be done every few months or as needed, using a moisturising dog shampoo that’s safe for their skin. Be sure to thoroughly dry the coat afterwards so your dog stays comfortable. As well as these main grooming tasks, you also need to undertake smaller everyday activities such as brushing your dog’s teeth and clipping their nails if required.
Professional Grooming
About every six to eight weeks, your Lakeland Terrier will need a trip to the groomer. The groomer can tidy the coat by hand-stripping or clipping. Hand-stripping plucks out dead hairs to encourage new growth and is often the preferred method of grooming Lakeland Terriers, but it can also be harder to do. Clipping cuts the coat to a uniform length and is an easier approach as it simply requires the use of a set of clippers.
The groomer will also trim the fur on the feet, tidy the ears and shape the beard and eyebrows. Nails can be clipped and teeth brushed. A polished Lakeland sports a smart jacket, neat legs and face furnishing.
Choosing a Groomer
Look for a groomer experienced with terrier breeds. The right groomer will hand-strip or clip based on what’s best for the dog’s coat. Ask for references and examples of their work. Meet with the groomer to ensure your Lakeland is comfortable there.
When initially searching for a new groomer, try to find an experienced groomer who has worked with Lakelands and who will be able to help you choose the right technique and style for your dog’s fur. It might take time and require some travel, but it’ll be worth the effort to find the perfect groomer for your beloved pet.
Why Put In All This Effort?
This might seem like a lot of hard work just to keep your dog looking good, but it’s an important part of owning a Lakeland Terrier or any non-shedding breed. Without regular home and professional grooming, your dog’s fur will become matted and dirty, which can result in health and skin problems.
Also, your dog will look messy, and won’t have the gorgeous, regal appearance that you love. With regular grooming at home and professional care every couple of months, your Lakeland Terrier’s unique coat will stay neat, healthy and dashing. Proper grooming enhances the Lakeland’s smart appearance and spunky character, so it’s worth the hard work and extra cash.