History

As its name suggests the Breed originates from the Lake District. There was a great cross section of people living in and around the Lake District in the early 1900’s and in various types of work such as farming and mining. One of the pastimes was to hunt with terriers and from these people with their different ideas of the ideal terrier combined with the landscape of the Lake District evolved the Lakeland Terrier. A fearless cheerful character with the ability to cover the ground in the company of hounds. Bred to follow vermin into the rock piles, they are very athletic dogs.

Characteristics

Lakeslands should have a well-balanced head with a flat and refined skull. The nose should be black except in liver coloured dogs, when the nose will be liver. The eyes should be hazel or dark in colour. Slanting eyes are not desirable. The ears should be moderately small, v-shaped and carried alertly, sitting neither too high or too low on the head. The teeth should be even with a perfect scissor bite. The neck should be reachy, slightly arched and clean at the throat. The shoulders should be well-laid back with straight, well boned forelegs. The hind quarters should be strong and muscular with long and powerful thighs. The hocks should be straight and set low to the ground. The chest should be reasonably narrow, with a moderately short, strong back. The feet should be small, compact, round and well padded. If docked the tail should be well set on and carried gaily but not over the back or curled. If undocked it should be the same and look in overall balance with the rest of the dog. Front and hind legs should be carried straight forward and parallel with good drive coming from well flexing hindquarters. The coat should be black and tan, blue and tan, red, wheaten, red grizzle, liver, blue or black. Small tips of white on feet and chest, whilst undesirable, are permissible. Mahogany or deep tan colours are not typical.

Temperament

They have adapted well to their role as the family pet. These dogs are cheerful and inquisitive. They will walk miles with you if you want in whatever weather but they will also curl up by the fire and be content just to be with you. They do benefit from mental stimulation to prevent them inventing their own games, which could be destructive to the house! Activity toys such as a Kong stuffed with food will keep them occupied, also a good toy to leave them with when they are left. Although fearless they are not know for starting fights, however if challenged they will stand up for themselves. They are generally recognised as being good with children. Both dog and children have to learn what is acceptable behaviour towards each other. They are not seen as a yappy breed but will give a warning if something untoward disturbs them.

Care

The coat needs to be plucked twice a year. Excessive hair around the pads of the feet must be trimmed and the ears must be kept clean.

Training

This breed learns quite easily. Training must be full of variety and challenging.

Activity

Apartment life is suitable for the Lakeland Terrier, however it still needs adequate exercise. It needs to run and play off the leash on a regular basis.