Lakeland Terrier Overview

Terriers have an established reputation as bold busybodies, always prepared to explore and play. The Lakeland Terrier is no different. While always energetic and ready for an invigorating game, this breed has moderate exercise needs. A short sprint or a long daily walk is all that is needed to keep this dog in good shape. With its eagerness for adventure, however, it is important that prospective owners have a securely fenced yard. The Lakeland has higher than average grooming requirements. Its coat needs to be combed at least twice per week, and it must be trimmed and stripped every three months. With moderate tolerances to cold and heat, this dog can live virtually anywhere. The Lakeland Terrier is certainly not for every owner. Just like other terriers, this breed can be a stubborn clown as well as a loving and devoted companion.

Lakeland Terrier History

Little is known about the Lakeland Terrier’s history. Available documentation says the breed was developed as a ratter and fox hunter. It was so adept at tracking and hunting, it was used to hunt other small game as well. The first appearance of this breed in historical text is 16th century England, where it succeeded in annual fox hunts. Its ancestry comes mainly from Fox and Border terriers. The breed’s reputation grew, and it was given the official name “Lakeland” in the early 1920s. This name originated from the dog breeds by which it was inaccurately identified. In fact, the Lakeland Terrier is said to have originated in the Cumberland region and not Lakeland. It was recognized by the AKC in 1934 and has maintained a good reputation since. Today the breed is admired for its hunting ability, but it enjoys small popularity as a household pet.

Lakeland Terrier Character

The Lakeland Terrier is feisty, strong-willed, and affectionate. It is a clever and entertaining companion that needs to divide its time between indoors and outdoors. Very loving and devoted to its family, it tends to be skittish around strangers and aggressive toward other animals. Training is a difficult chore, but only because terriers are generally spunky and prefer to spend their time playing games. It is absolutely essential that owners appreciate this breed’s clownish personality. Attempting to train this dog like a German Shepherd will only make the relationship between owner and dog difficult. This breed does not like to be harassed, so it is sometimes intolerant of small children. For an adventurous and brilliant companion, the Lakeland Terrier is an excellent choice. It is also surprisingly responsible indoors, so the breed can also be entertaining. Like most terriers, the Lakeland is ideal for owners who can appreciate its personality.

Lakeland Terrier Care

The Lakeland Terrier sheds little to no hair, but does require frequent grooming. A professional should perform hand plucking the hair approximately three times per year. Hair inside the ears should also be plucked. The beard of this breed should be regularly cleaned.

Lakeland Terrier Training

This energetic dog responds best with a variety of training methods and can be difficult to housebreak. He requires obedience training to be well mannered, and should have firm training.

Lakeland Terrier Health

Common Health Issues for the Lakeland Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Lakeland Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Lakeland Terrier Resources