01/Overview
The Lakeland Terrier is a small, sturdy, and spirited breed, known for its distinctive appearance and bold personality. Originating from the Lake District in England, this breed was initially developed to protect sheep from predatory foxes and other vermin. Despite its compact size, the Lakeland Terrier possesses a strong and confident presence, embodying the tenacity and courage characteristic of a much larger dog. This breed's adaptability and affectionate nature make it a beloved companion in homes and an enthusiastic competitor in various dog sports.
Highlights
02/History
The Lakeland Terrier boasts a rich heritage that traces back to the rugged and picturesque Lake District of England. Originating from the region's early terrier breeds, the Lakeland was developed to assist farmers in protecting sheep from predators like foxes, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity despite its small size. These early terriers were adept at navigating the rocky terrain and narrow crevices, traits that are still admired in the breed today.
The Lakeland Terrier's ancestors likely include the now-extinct Old English Black and Tan Terrier, along with contributions from other terrier breeds such as the Bedlington Terrier and Border Terrier, which helped refine the Lakeland's size, coat, and color. The breed was initially known for its working capabilities, but it also gained popularity in dog shows, with breeders refining its appearance for the show ring without compromising its working abilities.
Official recognition of the breed came in the early 20th century, with The Kennel Club in the UK registering the Lakeland Terrier in 1921. The breed's charm and prowess soon caught the attention of dog enthusiasts in other countries, including the United States, where the American Kennel Club granted recognition to the Lakeland Terrier in 1934.
Throughout its history, the Lakeland Terrier has maintained its reputation as a fearless and lively companion, both in the field and at home. While no longer widely used for vermin control, the breed's intelligence, agility, and personality have made it a beloved companion and competitive show dog. The Lakeland Terrier's enduring appeal lies in its spirited demeanor, distinctive appearance, and the joy it brings to its devoted owners.
03/Appearance
Adult Lakeland Terrier males typically stand between 14.5 and 15 inches at the withers, while females are slightly smaller. Regarding weight, Lakeland Terriers usually weigh around 17 pounds, with females being on the smaller side.
The Lakeland Terrier displays a balanced and sturdy build, typically presenting a square or slightly off-square profile. This breed features a robust constitution, with strong bones and well-developed musculature, essential for its agility and endurance. The breed's well-proportioned body, strong neck, and level back contribute to its alert and confident demeanor, encapsulating the essence of a capable and resilient terrier.
Texture: The Lakeland Terrier has a distinct double coat that is pivotal to its characteristic appearance. The outer coat is dense, wiry, and harsh, providing protection from harsh weather and rough terrain. The undercoat is softer and provides insulation, a necessary feature for a breed that hails from the often cold and wet English Lake District.
No markings are recognized in the AKC Lakeland Terrier Breed Standard.
Standard Colors
04/Consider
When contemplating bringing a Lakeland Terrier into your life, it's crucial to understand the breed's specific needs and characteristics to ensure a harmonious relationship. Lakeland Terriers, with their boundless energy, keen intelligence, and strong-willed nature, require dedicated caretakers who can provide structure, engagement, and affection. Their adaptability makes them suitable for various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards, as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
Lakeland Terriers are generally robust and healthy dogs, with a lifespan that typically ranges from 12 to 15 years. However, like all breeds and mixed breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of.
When considering a Lakeland Terrier, understanding their personality is crucial for establishing a good match between the dog and its human companions. Known for their bold, confident, and sometimes mischievous character, Lakeland Terriers possess a charm that can win over hearts with ease. However, their strong personalities require understanding and patient handling.
Lakeland Terriers are not typically recommended for novice dog owners due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. While they are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, they often have their own ideas about how things should be done and may require creative training strategies. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key in training this breed, as they respond well to rewards and praise but can become resistant to harsh methods.
In terms of sensitivity, Lakeland Terriers are quite resilient but still appreciate a stable and loving environment. They can adapt to various living situations as long as they receive adequate attention, exercise, and mental stimulation. While they enjoy being part of the family's activities, they can also exhibit a certain level of independence.
Socialization is critical for the Lakeland Terrier, as it helps mitigate their instinctive wariness around other dogs and their hunting drive, which can be strong. With proper socialization, they can learn to coexist peacefully with other pets and be more welcoming of strangers.
When it comes to their interaction with children, Lakeland Terriers can be good companions if raised with them or properly introduced. However, like all dogs, they should be supervised around young children to ensure the safety of both the child and the dog.
Exercise Expectations
Exercise for a Lakeland Terrier should be varied and engaging to cater to both their physical and mental well-being. Daily walks are essential, not just for their physical health but also for their mental stimulation, as new sights, sounds, and smells provide vital sensory experiences. These walks also serve as an excellent opportunity for reinforcing training and socialization. In addition to walks, Lakeland Terriers benefit from having access to a secure, enclosed space where they can run and explore freely. Play sessions, whether in a yard or a dog park, allow them to expend energy and satisfy their curiosity. Interactive games, such as fetch or tug-of-war, not only provide physical activity but also foster bonding with their human companions. Mental exercise is just as important for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and new tricks can keep their minds active and engaged. Such activities can help mitigate potential boredom and its negative consequences, like destructive behavior or excessive barking. Given their high energy levels, Lakeland Terriers can excel in and enjoy various canine sports, such as agility or earthdog trials, which tap into their natural instincts and abilities. Participation in such activities can provide excellent physical and mental workouts and reinforce the bond between dog and handler.
Living with a Lakeland Terrier can be a rewarding and joyful experience, given their affectionate nature, lively personality, and manageable size. However, it's essential to understand and accommodate their specific needs to ensure a harmonious household and a contented dog.
Lakeland Terriers are adaptable and can thrive in various living environments, from apartments to homes with large yards. However, regardless of the living space size, they require sufficient daily exercise to manage their energy levels and prevent boredom. A well-exercised Lakeland is more likely to be relaxed and well-behaved at home.
Their intelligence and curiosity can lead them into mischief if they're not adequately stimulated or supervised. As such, providing mental enrichment through interactive toys, puzzles, and regular training sessions is crucial to keep their minds engaged and prevent undesirable behaviors.
While Lakelands are generally good-natured, their terrier heritage gives them a bold and independent streak. Clear, consistent rules and gentle, firm training from the outset can help integrate them smoothly into the family dynamic. Socialization is also key to helping them get along with other pets and be comfortable around guests.
The breed's weather-resistant coat allows them to adapt well to various climates, though they should always have access to shade and water in hot weather and a warm, cozy spot during colder months. Regardless of the weather, Lakelands should live indoors with their human family, as they thrive on companionship and interaction.
05/Puppies
Welcoming a Lakeland Terrier puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience that begins a journey of companionship and mutual affection. These energetic and curious puppies require attentive care, consistent training, and a lot of love to grow into well-adjusted and happy adult dogs. Understanding their specific needs during puppyhood is essential for their development and well-being.
Proper care for a Lakeland Terrier puppy encompasses nutrition, socialization, training, and healthcare. Feeding your puppy a balanced, age-appropriate diet is crucial for their growth and development. Consultation with a veterinarian can help you choose the right food and feeding schedule, ensuring your puppy receives the necessary nutrients in the correct amounts.
Early socialization is key to developing a well-rounded dog. Exposing your Lakeland Terrier puppy to various environments, people, and other animals in a positive and controlled manner helps prevent behavioral issues and anxiety in the future. It also lays the foundation for a sociable and confident adult dog.
Training should begin the moment your puppy arrives home. Basic commands, house training, and crate training are essential components of their early education, providing structure and boundaries that help your puppy feel secure. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are effective in teaching desired behaviors and establishing a bond of trust and respect between you and your puppy.
Regular veterinary check-ups are vital during this developmental stage to make sure that your puppy is growing healthily and to administer necessary vaccinations and preventative treatments. These visits are also an opportunity to discuss and address any concerns or questions you may have about your puppy's health or behavior.
06/Activities
Lakeland Terriers are energetic and intelligent dogs that excel in a variety of activities and dog sports. Engaging them in these pursuits not only provides them with the physical and mental stimulation they need but also strengthens the bond between dog and handler. Here's a list of sports suitable for Lakeland Terriers:
Engaging a Lakeland Terrier in these activities can provide immense satisfaction and joy to both the dog and the handler, fostering a deep and enduring bond through shared experiences and achievements.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Lakeland Terrier is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Lakeland Terrier is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
Historical Purpose
The Lakeland Terrier was originally bred to protect farmers' livestock in the Lake District of England, hunting and dispatching foxes that preyed on sheep.
Distinct Appearance
Characterized by their sturdy and compact build, Lakeland Terriers have a unique, wiry coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, wheaten, red, and grizzle.
Longevity
With proper care, Lakeland Terriers can have a relatively long life expectancy, often living up to 12-15 years, which is testament to their robust health and vitality.
Low-Shedding Coat
Their hard, wiry coat is hypoallergenic and sheds very little, which can be an advantage for people with allergies or those who prefer less pet hair in their home.
Famous Mascots
Lakeland Terriers have occasionally been the face of advertising campaigns or television characters, thanks to their expressive faces and lively personalities.
Family-Friendly
When properly socialized, Lakeland Terriers can be excellent companions for children, showing patience and playfulness with younger family members.
11/FAQ
Yes, Lakeland Terriers are double-coated, featuring a soft, insulating undercoat beneath a harsh, wiry outer coat. This dual-layer coat was originally developed to provide protection against the harsh, damp climate of the Lake District in England, helping to keep the dog dry and warm. The undercoat is lighter and softer, providing insulation, while the outer coat repels water and debris, making it an effective barrier against the elements.
Official Standard of the Lakeland Terrier
General Appearance: The Lakeland Terrier was bred to hunt vermin in the rugged shale mountains of the Lake District of northern England. He is a small, workmanlike dog of square, sturdy build. His body is deep and relatively narrow, which allows him to squeeze into rocky dens. He has sufficient length of leg under him to cover rough ground easily. His neck is long, leading smoothly into high withers and a short topline ending in a high tail set. His attitude is gay, friendly, and self-confident, but not overly aggressive. He is alert and ready to go. His movement is lithe and graceful, with a straight-ahead, free stride of good length. His head is rectangular, jaws are powerful, and ears are V-shaped. A dense, wiry coat is finished off with longer furnishings on muzzle and legs.
Size, Proportion, Substance: The ideal height of the mature dog is 14½ inches from the withers to the ground, with up to a one-half inch deviation either way permissible. Bitches may measure as much as one inch less than dogs. The weight of the well balanced, mature male in hard show condition averages approximately 17 pounds. Dogs of other heights will be proportionately more or less. The dog is squarely built, and bitches may be slightly longer than dogs. Balance and proportion are of primary importance. Short-legged, heavy-bodied dogs or overly refined, racy specimens are atypical and should be penalized. The dog should have sufficient bone and substance, so as to appear sturdy and workmanlike without any suggestion of coarseness.
Head: The expression depends on the dog’s mood of the moment; although typically alert, it may be intense and determined, or gay and even impish. The eyes, moderately small and somewhat oval in outline, are set squarely in the skull, fairly wide apart. In liver or liver and tan dogs, the eyes are dark hazel to warm brown and eye rims are brown. In all other colors, the eyes are warm brown to black and eye rims are dark. The ears are small, V-shaped, their fold just above the top of the skull, the inner edge close to the side of the head, and the flap pointed toward the outside corner of the eye. The skull is flat on top and moderately broad, the cheeks flat and smooth as possible. The stop is barely perceptible. The muzzle is strong with straight nose bridge and good fill-in beneath the eyes. The head is well balanced, rectangular, the length of skull equaling the length of the muzzle when measured from occiput to stop, and from stop to nose tip. The proportions of the head are critical to correct type. An overlong foreface or short, wedge shaped head are atypical and should be penalized. The nose is black. A "winter" nose with faded pigment is permitted, but not desired. Liver colored noses and lips are permissible on liver coated dogs only. A pink or distinctly spotted nose is very undesirable. The lips are dark. Jaws are powerful. The teeth, which are comparatively large, may meet in either a level, edge to edge bite, or a slightly overlapping scissors bite. Specimens with teeth overshot or undershot are to be disqualified.
Neck, Topline, Body: The neck is long; refined but strong; clean at the throat; slightly arched, and widening gradually and smoothly into the shoulders. The withers, that point at the back of the neck where neck and body meet, are noticeably higher than the level of the back. The topline, measured from the withers to the tail, is short and level. The body is strong and supple. The moderately narrow oval chest is deep, extending to the elbows. The ribs are well sprung and moderately rounded off the vertebrae. The Lakeland Terrier is a breed of moderation. A barrel-chested, big-bodied dog or one which is slab-sided and lacking substance is atypical and should be penalized. The loins are taut and short, although they may be slightly longer in bitches. There is moderate tuck-up. The tail is set high on the back. It is customarily docked so that when the dog is set up in show position, the tip of the tail is level with the occiput. In carriage, it is upright and a slight curve toward the head is desirable. Behind the tail is a well-defined, broad pelvic shelf. It is more developed in dogs than in bitches. The tail tightly curled over the back is a fault.
Forequarters: The shoulders are well angulated. An imaginary line drawn from the top of the shoulder blade should pass through the elbow. The shoulder blade is long in proportion to the upper arm, which allows for reasonable angulation while maintaining the more upright "terrier front." The musculature of the shoulders is flat and smooth. The elbows are held close to the body, standing or moving. The forelegs are strong, clean and straight when viewed from the front or side. There is no appreciable bend at the pasterns. The feet are round and point forward, the toes compact and strong. The pads are thick and black or dark gray, except in liver colored dogs where they are brown. The nails are strong and may be black or self-colored. Dewclaws are removed.
Hindquarters: The thighs are powerful and well muscled. The hind legs are well angulated, but not so much as to affect the balance between front and rear, which allows for smooth efficient movement. The stifles turn neither in nor out. The distance from the hock to the ground is relatively short and the line from the hock to toes is straight when viewed from the side. From the rear the hocks are parallel to each other. Feet same as front. Dewclaws, if any, are removed.
Coat: Two-ply or double, the outer coat is hard and wiry in texture, the undercoat is close to the skin and soft and should never overpower the wiry outer coat. The Lakeland is hand stripped to show his outline. (Clipping is inappropriate for the show ring.) The appearance should be neat and workmanlike. The coat on the skull, ears, forechest, shoulders and behind the tail is trimmed short and smooth. The coat on the body is longer (about one-half to one inch) and may be slightly wavy or straight. The furnishings on the legs and foreface are plentiful as opposed to profuse and should be tidy. They are crisp in texture. The legs should appear cylindrical. The face is traditionally trimmed, with the hair left longer over the eyes to give the head a rectangular appearance from all angles, with the eyes covered from above. From the front, the eyes are quite apparent, giving the Lakeland his own unique mischievous expression.
Color: The Lakeland Terrier comes in a variety of colors, all of which are equally acceptable. Solid colors include blue, black, liver, red, and wheaten. In saddle marked dogs, the saddle covers the back of the neck, back, sides and up the tail. A saddle may be blue, black, liver, or varying shades of grizzle. The remainder of the dog (head, throat, shoulders, and legs) is a wheaten or golden tan. Grizzle is a blend of red or wheaten intermixed in varying proportions with black, blue or liver.
Gait: Movement is straightforward and free, with good reach in front and drive behind. It should be smooth, efficient and ground-covering. Coming and going, the legs should be straight with feet turning neither in nor out; elbows close to the sides in front and hocks straight behind. As the dog moves faster he will tend to converge toward his center of gravity. This should not be confused with close movement.
Temperament: The typical Lakeland Terrier is bold, gay and friendly, with a confident, cock-of-the-walk attitude. Shyness, especially shy-sharpness, in the mature specimen is to be heavily penalized. Conversely, the overly aggressive, argumentative dog is not typical and should be strongly discouraged.
Disqualifications: Teeth overshot or undershot.
Approved January 15, 1991
Effective February 27, 1991
Meet the Breeders
Mark Brandsema of Wakefield Lakelands reflects on 25 years of breeding top Lakeland Terriers with balance, heart, and purpose.
Discover the forgotten history and revival of solid black and blue Lakeland Terriers, from early shows to modern preservation efforts.
Bred for agility and grit, Lakeland Terriers were fox-killing working dogs of England’s fells – tough, efficient, and pack-ready.
Agility
With focus and training, Lakeland Terriers can thrive in Agility – proving drive, joy, and teamwork make them top canine athletes.
Meet the Breeders
Patty Brill Harbison discusses her journey in breeding Lakeland Terriers, mentorship, philosophies, and future plans.
All About Judging
Learn about the Lakeland Terrier’s breed characteristics, including conformation, movement, coat quality, and temperament for judging.
Meet the Judges
Bergit Coady-Kabel shares her passion for Lakeland Terriers, judging at Montgomery, and the future of Terrier breeds worldwide.
Meet the Breeders
Interview with Sarah & Ariel Cukier, renowned breeders of Lakeland, Airedale Terriers, and Standard Schnauzers, on the sport today.
Explore the fascinating history, character, and unique traits of the Lakeland Terrier, a breed shaped by necessity and determination.
The Lakeland Terrier's tail is an important aspect of its overall appearance and character, often reflecting the dog's mood and level of alertness. Traditionally, the tail is docked in countries where this practice is still permitted, which is done to prevent injuries that could occur during their work in rough terrains and burrows. However, in countries where docking is banned, the Lakeland Terrier sports a naturally longer tail.
Coat Type
Wiry, Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Short
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Proper feeding and nutrition are foundational for the health and well-being of a Lakeland Terrier. These energetic dogs require a balanced diet that fuels their active lifestyle while maintaining their ideal weight. The dietary needs of a Lakeland Terrier can vary based on age, weight, activity level, and overall health, so it's important to tailor their nutrition accordingly.
For Lakeland Terrier puppies, it's essential to provide a diet that supports their rapid growth and development without promoting excessive weight gain. Puppies typically benefit from small, frequent meals that supply the necessary nutrients for their energy needs and developmental requirements.
Transitioning to adult food should be done gradually, around the age of one year, to prevent digestive issues. Adult Lakeland Terriers, given their size and energy, usually do well on two meals a day. This routine not only satisfies their dietary needs but also establishes a predictable eating schedule, which can contribute to better digestive health and weight management.
The amount of food a Lakeland Terrier requires can vary, but it's generally recommended to start with the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust as necessary based on the dog's condition and activity level. Monitoring your dog's weight and body condition is crucial; you should be able to feel the ribs but not see them. If your Lakeland seems to be gaining or losing too much weight, adjusting their food intake and consulting a veterinarian can help address the issue.
While commercial dog foods provide balanced nutrition, some owners opt to supplement their Lakeland's diet with fresh, whole foods. If choosing to do so, it's important to introduce new foods slowly and in moderation to avoid digestive upset and make sure that these additions are safe and beneficial for your dog.
Fresh, clean water should always be available to your Lakeland Terrier, as proper hydration is essential for their overall health, especially given their propensity for vigorous activity.
Training a Lakeland Terrier presents a unique set of challenges and rewards, reflecting the breed's intelligent, independent, and sometimes stubborn character. Understanding and leveraging these traits are key to successful training and a harmonious relationship with your Lakeland.
Lakeland Terriers are bright and quick learners, which means they can pick up on commands and tricks with ease when engaged and motivated. However, their independent nature can sometimes lead to a 'what's in it for me?' attitude, so it's essential to make training sessions engaging and rewarding. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work well with this breed, encouraging them to view training as a fun and rewarding activity.
Despite their small size, Lakelands have a strong personality and can be assertive. Establishing yourself as a calm, consistent, and fair leader is crucial to garner their respect and cooperation. They respond well to confident handlers who provide clear guidance and boundaries without being harsh or punitive.
Lakeland Terriers have a moderate to high energy level and can exhibit behaviors like barking and digging if they become bored or have excess energy. Incorporating training into their daily routine not only reinforces good behavior but also provides the mental stimulation they crave. Training sessions should be short, varied, and fun to keep their attention focused and prevent them from becoming bored or disinterested.
The breed's prey drive and tendency to wander or chase can be managed with consistent recall training and socialization. Introducing a Lakeland Terrier to a variety of environments, people, and other animals can help minimize their instinct to chase and improve their overall behavior.
Grooming Expectations
While the Lakeland Terrier's coat is relatively low-shedding compared to other breeds, it does require routine grooming to keep it in good condition. Brushing a few times a week can help distribute natural skin oils, remove loose hairs, and prevent tangles. The coat also needs to be hand-stripped or clipped several times a year to maintain its texture and shape, a process that removes dead hair and encourages new growth. Bathing the Lakeland Terrier should be done as needed but not so frequently as to strip the coat of its natural oils, which are vital for protecting the skin and maintaining the coat's waterproof qualities. Using a dog-specific shampoo that caters to wiry coats can help maintain the coat's health and appearance. In addition to coat care, regular grooming routines should include nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care. Keeping the nails short will prevent problems with walking and discomfort, while regular ear checks and cleanings can help prevent infections, particularly important for a breed with folded ears. Dental hygiene, often overlooked in canine care, is crucial for preventing gum disease and tooth loss; thus, regular brushing and veterinary dental checks are recommended. Establishing a consistent grooming routine from a young age can help desensitize the Lakeland Terrier to the process, making it a more enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner. Professional grooming can also be considered, particularly for show dogs or for owners unfamiliar with the techniques of hand-stripping or proper terrier coat care.
Regarding apartment living, while Lakelands can adapt, their tendency to bark should be managed through training to prevent disturbances. Furthermore, their exercise needs should be met through regular walks, playtimes, and outings.
