Dog Breeds 101: Lakeland Terrier

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The playful Lakeland Terrier is a great companion and loves to spend a lot of time outdoors. This dog was originally bred for fox hunting but it is also an accomplished competitor in the show ring. This breed has an average life span of 12 to 15 years but may prone to develop eye problems and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. The Lakeland Terrier has the tendency to become stubborn and mischievous therefore it requires a firm yet patient owner. When all of its needs are fulfilled, it is a loving companion and a reliable watch dog. [1] [2]

The Lakeland Terrier is sturdily built and has a narrow body to allow it to squeeze into rock dens. The neck is long, ears are V-shaped tail is set high on the body and the eyes are dark. The breed as an average height of 14.5 inches at the withers and can weigh up to 14 pounds. The dog has double coat that is about an inch ling and may be straight or wavy. When a Lakeland Terrier is born, its fur is always dark but as it matures, the color of the coat changes. The breed comes in the colors blue, black, liver, red or wheaten. [2]

The breed is from England’s Lake District near the Scottish border. Although the area is scenic, it also has a rough terrain with sheep farms dotting the countryside. The dogs were bred there to expertly work with the rough lands and to protect livestock. They also hunted foxes, badgers and other animals that might disturb their flock. They were considered to be incredibly fearless and tenacious in their quest to find their prey. In the 1920s, a breed standard was written and the Lakeland Terrier was recognized by the Kennel Club of England soon after. The American Kennel Club registered the first Lakeland Terrier named Eaton What A Lad of Howtown (cool name!) in 1934. It is one of the oldest terrier breeds still used today. [2] [3]