Lakeland Terrier

Updated August 11, 2025

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Bred in the Lake District of England to hunt foxes, the Lakeland Terrier is a bold and zesty 'big dog in a small package.' They are known for their hard, wiry, low-shedding coat and friendly, self-confident personality, making them an entertaining and loyal family pet.

Temperament

Confident, Friendly, Intelligent, Bold, Playful

Weight

15-17 pounds

Height

13.5-15 inches

Life Expectancy

12-15 years

Coat Color

Black & Tan, Blue & Tan, Red, Wheaten, Red Grizzle, Liver, Black, Blue

At a Glance

Maintenance Level

3/5

Friendliness

4/5

Energy Level

4/5

Good with Kids

4/5

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Characteristics Appearance Temperament Care Health History FAQs

About Lakeland Terrier

Bred in the Lake District of England to hunt foxes, the Lakeland Terrier is a bold and zesty 'big dog in a small package.' They are known for their hard, wiry, low-shedding coat and friendly, self-confident personality, making them an entertaining and loyal family pet.

12-15 years
Lifespan
15-17 pounds
Weight
13.5-15 inches
Height
4
Energy Level

What Makes Lakeland Terriers Special

The Lakeland Terrier is a charismatic and confident companion, embodying the spirit of a much larger dog in a compact, sturdy frame. Their playful and often mischievous nature makes them a joy to have around.

Bred for courage and perseverance in the rugged English Lake District, they are tough, intelligent, and possess a tireless zest for life. They form strong, loyal bonds with their families.

Lakeland Terrier History & Origin

The Lakeland Terrier hails from the rugged fells of England's Lake District, where farmers used them to protect their sheep from fox predation. Their job was to go to ground and dispatch the foxes in their dens, requiring a dog of immense courage, agility, and determination.

The breed is one of the oldest working terrier types, with ancestors including the Old English Black and Tan Terrier and the Bedlington Terrier.

They were developed by farmers in the 18th century to work with hounds, keeping up with them over rough terrain and then going into burrows after the quarry.

The breed was officially recognized by the UK's Kennel Club in 1921 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1934.

The cost for a Lakeland Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on lineage and location.

Adopting a Lakeland Terrier from a rescue organization is also a wonderful option for prospective owners.

Lakeland Terrier Characteristics

Individual Variation

Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs

Couch Potato Star Athlete

Grooming Needs

Minimal Grooming Extensive Grooming

Training Needs

Requires Minimal Training Requires a Lot of Training

Health Issues

Few Known Health Issues Many Known Health Issues

Shedding Level

Sheds a Little Sheds a Lot

Lakeland Terrier Appearance

The Lakeland Terrier has a distinct, boxy appearance with a rectangular head and a confident posture. They are sturdy and athletic, with an alert and ready expression.

Their wiry coat and 'furnished' face with a beard and eyebrows give them a classic, rugged terrier look.

Physical Features

Ears

Small, V-shaped ears that fold over neatly, adding to their alert expression.

Eyes

Dark and spirited, their eyes convey intelligence and a hint of mischief.

Nose

The nose is typically black. In liver-colored dogs, a liver-colored nose is permissible.

Coat & Build

Coat Length

A medium-length double coat, with a hard, wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat. Longer hair, called 'furnishings,' is present on the muzzle and legs.

Coat Color

The Lakeland Terrier comes in a variety of colors recognized by the Kennel Club, including black and tan, blue and tan, red, wheaten, red grizzle, liver, solid black, and blue.

Tail

The tail is set high and carried with a confident, cheerful air, but it does not curl over the back.

Lakeland Terrier Temperament

A 'big dog in a small package,' the Lakeland Terrier is brimming with confidence and character. They are alert and curious, always ready for an adventure.

Friendly and affectionate with their families, Lakelands possess a charming and often comical personality. They are known to be entertaining companions who thrive on being part of family activities.

Despite their friendly nature, they have a classic terrier's boldness and can be wary of strangers initially, making them excellent watchdogs. Proper socialization is key to ensuring they are welcoming to guests.

Lakelands are intelligent and quick to learn, but they also have an independent and stubborn streak. Training requires patience and consistency, but their cleverness means they can excel in various dog sports.

This breed has a strong prey drive due to its origins as a fox hunter. Caution is needed around smaller pets unless they have been raised together. They can coexist peacefully with other dogs with proper introductions and socialization.

Temperament Traits

ConfidentFriendlyIntelligentBoldPlayful

Good With

ChildrenActive IndividualsFamilies with a Yard

Health

Lakelands are a generally healthy and hardy breed with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Responsible breeding helps minimize hereditary conditions, but there are some health issues to be aware of.

Common Health Issues

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease - A degenerative condition of the hip joint that can cause limping and pain, typically seen in young dogs.
Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - An inherited eye disorder where the lens of the eye dislocates, which can lead to glaucoma and blindness. Genetic testing is available.
Heart Conditions - Certain heart issues, such as mitral valve disease, can affect the breed. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect murmurs or other signs.
Hip Dysplasia - While more common in large breeds, this malformation of the hip socket can still occur in Lakelands.
Hypothyroidism - A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormone, which can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues.
Dental Disease - Small breeds are often prone to dental problems. Regular brushing and professional cleanings are important.

Preventive Care

Regular veterinary exams, genetic screening for known conditions like PLL, proper diet and exercise, and diligent dental care.

How to Care for a Lakeland Terrier

Lakeland Terriers are energetic and intelligent dogs that require regular physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their wiry coat needs specific grooming to maintain its texture and health, but they are a low-shedding breed.

Living Conditions

Space Requirements

Adaptable; can live in an apartment if sufficiently exercised, but a yard is a plus.

Climate Adaptability

Hardy coat offers protection in cooler climates; care should be taken in extreme heat.

Apartment Living

Possible, but their energy and tendency to bark should be considered.

Best Suited For

Best suited for active owners who enjoy training and outdoor activities.

Training Tips

Start socialization and training from a young age.
Use positive reinforcement techniques with fun rewards.
Keep training sessions short and engaging to prevent boredom.
Be patient and consistent with rules and commands.
Enroll in puppy classes for structured socialization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Specialized Care Guides

Puppy Care

Crucial early socialization, start training immediately, provide plenty of chew toys.

Senior Care

Monitor for joint issues, adjust exercise to a more moderate level, regular vet check-ups.

First-Time Owner Tips

Can be a good match for active first-time owners who are prepared for the grooming and training commitment.