Hailing from the Lake District, the Lakeland Terrier is thought to be one of the oldest breeds of Terrier, with records dating it to the 1700s. Originally known as the Patterdale, Westmoreland, Cumberland or Fell Terrier, the Lakeland became recognised as an independent breed in 1934. Believed to be the result of crossing between the Bedlington Terrier and the Old English Wire-Haired Terrier, the Lakeland was primarily bred for the working purposes of flushing vermin from food stores and deterring fox and badger from crops and herds. Additionally, the Lakeland Terrier was used to hunt den animals and was capable of working over difficult terrain, making it a versatile and able-bodied breed choice.
Distinctive in appearance, yet bearing a striking resemblance to the Airedale Terrier, the Lakeland is characterised by a medium build, a high-set tail, triangular 'drop' ears and a wiry outer coat in common colour variations of black, blue, liver, tan and grizzle. Despite being an illegal practice in most countries across Europe, the process of tail 'docking' is often undertaken with this breed, although such is not a breed standard. Traditionally employed in hunting fox, otter, badger, weasel and rats, the Lakeland Terrier retains its natural instincts, inclined to chase smaller animals unless trained not to. Puppies are usually born solid black and change colour as they mature.
Compatible with children and other domestic animals, the Lakeland is a great breed choice for families or a dedicated sole owner. Inherently energetic and fun-loving, the Lakeland requires regular exercise and mental enrichment. Highly intelligent and responsive, the Lakeland can be trained to a good degree. On average a healthy Lakeland will weigh 6-8 kg depending on its gender, with a life expectancy of 10-12 years when shown the appropriate care. It is not uncommon for a Lakeland to outlive this expectancy.
Selectively bred for its hardy capabilities, the Lakeland is typically healthy and long-lived. As with most other breeds, the Lakeland is prone to certain afflictions, including optical disorders, dermatitis and hip dysplasia. No serious breed-specific or genetic diseases are documented for the breed.
![[REDACTED] [REDACTED]'s Lakeland Terrier - Alfie](http://static2.viovet.co.uk/opt/s=kr/petphotos/3488_fc5a896f65dc55c5f834a9b84c960d70.jpg)
I have a lakeland bitch,she's 12yrs old,and one great dog.I have 2 children,she has grown up with them.I have not had any problems with Rusty at all,shes so loving and has a great personality.Sadly she has cancer,and has not got long left.Rusty is the best dog I have ever had,no other dog could replace her.I would recommend a lakeland to any family wanting a loving,friendly pet.They are very intelligent and friendly.I have never known my dog to go for anyone or another dog.My lakeland is so loyal and basically my 3rd child.What you have to remember when you get any dog,you have to be prepared for the day they go.They are part of your family.Yes I would recommend a Lakeland to anyone wanting a trusting,loyal friend.I've had 12 great years with mine..
From Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
I have two Lakeland terriers Pip and Mo. Pip is a 12 year old boy and Mo is an 11 year old girl, I have had them both from ten weeks old.
I have six grandchildren ranging from 2 weeks old up to 17 year old and have always had them for sleepovers, both my dogs are excellent with the children and very protective of them.
I live alone and they are my best friends, we spend our weekends walking in the country park and playing frisbee.
Like many other terrier breeds they do have a mind of their own and can be stubborn sometimes but that's all part of their character.
From United Kingdom
My Lakeland Holly is 16yrs old on 14/09/2019. She is feisty, amusingly stubborn, loves all 8 of my grandchildren, having grown up with the oldest three. We recently added a 3 yr old rescue Bobby to the household. Holly loves him & he is kind, though still puppy playful with her. Her tail hasn't stopped wagging since he arrived. Holly is loyal, loved & loving.