A relatively modern breed, the Sporting Lucas Terrier was named after the politician and Sealyham Terrier breeder, Major Sir Jocelyn Lucas, who developed the breed on his return from the First World War. Keenly interested in hunting dogs and sporting terriers, Lucas set about producing a breed that could go to ground independently or with a pack, flushing out quarry for the accompanying hunter to shoot, and manoeuvre into enclosed and difficult spaces above and below ground, without hesitation. To achieve the Sporting Lucas Terrier, Sealyhams and Norfolk Terriers were used to give the animal its perseverance, distinction and trainability.
A small and sturdy dog with short, well conformed legs and a narrow chest, the Sporting Lucas Terrier reflects the qualities of its forbears in both appearance and temperament. The tail is high-set and the head is broad with small pendant ears. Boasting a double coat that helps to protect the body from rough ground and bracken when the dog goes to ground, the Sporting Lucas is well evolved to withstand its difficult working conditions. The Sporting Lucas Terrier is typically coloured white with markings of brown, grey, grizzle or tan.
Curious and intelligent, the Sporting Lucas Terrier benefits from mental enrichment as well as physical exercise as part of its daily routine. Like the Sealyham and Norfolk Terriers, the Sporting Lucas is well suited to relaxed domestic living and gets along easily with children and other house pets when introduced gradually. Full of life, character and enthusiasm, the Sporting Lucas makes a great working dog and companion animal that can be trained to a good degree when socialised early and shown firm leadership. On average, a healthy Sporting Lucas Terrier will weigh 5-8 kg, with a typical life expectancy of 10-15 years.
The Sporting Lucas Terrier is a relatively hardy breed with a moderate life expectancy, although there are documented incidences of patellar luxation in the breed, as well as ectropian, chronic ear infection and dental issues.
Our SLT is 3 years old and he has been an absolute joy! Full of beans and energy so does need a lot of exercise. Fantastic personality very bold and playful! Does bark quite a lot when it the garden. This is the first dog we ever got, we have not yet had any health issues with him. He has been a fantastic first dog and made us wish we had got an SLT sooner!
From Shropshire, United Kingdom
The SLT is an amazing little dog and incredibly intelligent. I would never have any other breed.
I would strongly urge any potential buyers to ensure they test for heart conditions before buying (all responsible breeders will do this anyway) as I have not come across many SLT's that do not have a heart problem (purely because the breeding line is not that big)
They can also have Patella luxation which causes them to skip when walking.
Always ask to see medical cards and assessments before you buy