Lakeland Terrier

Curious on walks and quick on its feet

The Lakeland Terrier developed from working terriers in different valleys of the Lake District in northern England. They travelled with hounds across steep, rocky ground and were used for work that included pursuing foxes. The current breed standard describes a compact, confident and agile terrier. Small size therefore does not mean that a routine without interesting outings will suit it.

Rustling undergrowth or a fresh wildlife scent may attract considerable attention on a walk. Recall, returning to you when called, should be taught early in places with little distraction. A lead is sensible near roads or where wildlife is likely. It should allow your dog to explore without giving it the opportunity to chase an animal.

PDSA, a British veterinary charity, highlights hunting behaviour in this breed. Rabbits, guinea pigs and other small prey animals therefore need secure separation. Living with a cat should be assessed according to both animals’ behaviour and experience. Adults should supervise calm time with children and make sure the dog can move away when it wants to.

Everyday life

Different routes can make a walk more interesting for a Lakeland than repeating the same circuit. Time to sniff, find a hidden toy and practise a familiar cue can give the walk variety. For example, you could hide a familiar toy behind a low log after showing your dog how the game begins. The task should let it reach the toy easily.

Free running can take place in a reliably fenced area. You should first check that gates are closed and the fence has no gaps your dog could escape through. It is also useful to practise moving between activity and rest. After a shared task, you could allow sniffing or continue along a quiet stretch of path, rather than repeatedly increasing the pace of play.

A Lakeland can live in a flat when exercise, activities and rest suit its needs. If hallway noise triggers barking, you should begin with easier situations and enough distance from the entrance. Time alone needs gradual introduction. Persistent barking or restless pacing should prompt simpler training steps and, where needed, professional advice.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

A Lakeland has harsh outer guard hairs with a softer undercoat beneath them. Hand stripping is often used to maintain the wiry texture. A skilled person removes mature, loose outer hairs that are ready to release. This is different from pulling out firmly attached hair at random. The Midland Lakeland Terrier Club recommends learning the technique with experienced help.

For a family dog, coat care should suit the skin, hair and what the dog can comfortably tolerate. Regular brushing and combing remove loose hair and help prevent tangles. Alongside hand stripping, a groomer can discuss appropriate trimming with scissors or clippers. A particular show finish should not be forced at the expense of comfort. Pain, red skin or firm mats need skilled attention.

Grooming can be introduced in short stages from puppyhood. Briefly examining one paw, rewarding the dog and continuing later is a useful start. Nails, ears and skin should be checked regularly. Toothbrushing with dog toothpaste belongs in the routine too. Before bringing your dog home, it is worth finding a groomer experienced with wire-coated terriers and planning for recurring costs.