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Lakeland Terrier

Lakeland Terrier is a small terrier breed from England.

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Lakeland Terrier

Breed overview

Lakeland Terrier is a small terrier breed from England.

A small terrier from England's Lake District, originally bred to hunt and eliminate foxes preying on sheep flocks, especially pursuing them into rocky dens.

People looking into Lakeland Terrier usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 15–17 lbs • 13–15 in.

History and origin

Lakeland Terrier is tied to originating from England, specifically Lake District, with sources often placing its development around 1700 CE.

Lakeland Terrier is described here as placed in the terrier group and marked as an established breed.

A small terrier from England's Lake District, originally bred to hunt and eliminate foxes preying on sheep flocks, especially pursuing them into rocky dens.

Browse dog breeds from England Browse more terrier breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
terrier
Size
Small
Origin country
England
Region
Lake District
Origin year
1700 CE
Weight
15–17 lbs
Height
13–15 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Lakeland Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleHardWiry

Lakeland Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Square, compact body
  • Wiry, dense double coat
  • Rectangular head with V-shaped ears
  • Available in several colors, often with saddle marking

What this breed is known for

  • A small terrier from England's Lake District, originally bred to hunt and eliminate foxes preying on sheep flocks, especially pursuing them into rocky dens.
  • Looks similar to a Welsh Terrier but smaller. Lakelands have a wiry, low-shedding coat that comes in many colors (often tan with a darker saddle) and a distinctive rectangular muzzle.
  • Bold, confident, and friendly, they are high-energy dogs that enjoy digging and chasing. They retain strong prey drive, so early socialization and training are important.

Health and care notes

Lakeland Terrier is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Eye Conditions
  • Luxating Patella
  • Legg Calve Perthes Disease

Coat details: Double, Hard, Wiry

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Lakeland Terrier come from?

Lakeland Terrier is closely associated with England, especially Lake District in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Lakeland Terrier get?

Typical size details for Lakeland Terrier on this page are 15–17 lbs, 13–15 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Lakeland Terrier known for?

A small terrier from England's Lake District, originally bred to hunt and eliminate foxes preying on sheep flocks, especially pursuing them into rocky dens.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Lakeland Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.