Now if you’re a fan of “Terriers” then you’re probably going to be a huge fan of this little guy because the Lakeland Terrier is 100% Terrier packed into a tiny package!
And then when…
You combine this with his mischievous look that he seems to always have about him, it’s no wonder why so many folks love to make these guys their own.
But…
Just because these guys can be a lot of fun to own doesn’t mean that they’re automatically going to be the “right” dog for you. Particularly if you’ve never owned a Terrier before. This is why we wanted to take a moment and discuss what it might be like to own one of these little guys. This way if you’re just “on the fence” hopefully we’ll be able to help you decide.
Because…
The last thing that we would want to have happen is for the “right” dog end up with the “wrong” owner. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Lakeland Terrier Dog Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: England
Original Purpose: Hunting vermin
Height: 14.5 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 15 to 17 pounds
Dog Breed Classification: Terrier group
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Origin of the Lakeland Terrier Dog Breed
The Lakeland Terrier dog breed hails from the Lake District of Northern England where these guys were just one of several different dog breeds that helped farmers and hunters alike hunt down vermin and small game for many centuries.
During this time…
These little guys have gone by a variety of different names including the:
- Patterdale Terrier,
- Cumberland Terrier
- And the Westmoreland Terrier.
And while the breed was well known in his little area of Lake District, he didn’t become really famous until 1912 when he was featured in many dog shows across the UK.
Soon after that…
A Lakeland Terrier Club was formed and it looked like he was going to have a bright future from there. Unfortunately, this was right around the same time World War I broke out which significantly “dampened” his “coming out” party.
Eventually…
In 1921, as peace returned to Europe, the first Lakeland Terrier breed standard was developed and registered by the Kennel Club of England soon after that, yet the breed has never really been extremely popular.
Even in the United States…
The Lakeland Terrier has only ever been “mildly” popular even though they have been “officially” recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) since 1934.
Physical Characteristics
The Lakeland Terrier Dog stands at 14.5 inches. He has a proud, upright posture that gives you the impression of always being on the verge of explosive action.
He also has…
A very sturdy physique topped off with a broad and flat head that slopes down from the crown to nose in a straight line. Although this dog is relatively small in size, don’t let his size fool you, these guys can and often are very athletic. In fact, many owners will describe their Lakeland as being full of energy with the ability to run for miles, if he has to or allowed too.
And they…
Can do this in just about any whether because they come equipped with a rough, weatherproof upper coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Which is usually comes in one of the following colors:
- Red grizzle,
- Black and tan,
- Blue and tan,
- Red,
- Wheaten
- Or black.
Their ears…
Are small and triangular, their eyes almond shaped and dark and if you’ve ever seen one up close, you’ll agree that they have a very distinctively shaped long neck, narrow chest and tucked abdomen.
Comparisons dog breeds
This handsome little terrier may be compared to other dogs such as Fell Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, Dandie Dinmont Terrier and Black and Tan Terrier.
In fact…
Some might say that they look like a lot like a smaller version of the popular working terrier, the Welsh Terrier. He is just as charming, effervescent and funny. He is also very smart and full of energy. You can’t fault him for lack of enthusiasm ever!
Personality of the Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is friendly, curious and confident. But beware, because this little guy is also very assertive and has a mind of his own. He has one…
Obsession in life, and that is to go after every vermin that comes in his way. He is always up to something, chasing rats like a maniac, or digging the earth like his life depends on it.
He is also a very…
Composed dog, never shy or aggressive, but is very bold. He is not afraid to take on dogs that are much bigger than him in size. He is also a very stubborn old fella and expects to have his way on almost everything.
Training and Socialization
Training and socialization matters and should begin as early as possible. The good news is that the Lakey is a quick learner and an independent thinker. He excels in agility, obedience, flyball and other dog sports.
The bad news is…
Socialization is slightly more difficult with the Lakey, as he doesn’t get along too well with other (male) dogs. He doesn’t like to be around other terriers either. And cats? He will want to chase or attack any cat that crosses his path.
But…He loves people!
Lakeland Terrier may not like other dogs or cats, but he certainly loves people. He probably considers himself to be one of us! He loves goofing around and makes for a perfect playmate for older kids.
The problem is…
He’s not always responsive to his owner’s commands, but he is so comical that you can forgive him for anything. He is the jester of the family, and makes everyone laugh with his antics. Such a joy to be with!
Health Issues
Lakeland Terriers are among the healthiest dog breeds out there. In fact, one of the few problems that these guys seem to have is referred to as Legg-Calves-Perthes disease which most will run a medium risk of developing.
That said however…
If interested in adopting a Lakeland Terrier, you should always be sure to only work with a reputable breeder and be sure to examine both the mother and father of your perspective puppy just to be sure that they are 100% healthy. But even then, health issues can always arise.
This is why…
We here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be right for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
