The Lakeland Terrier is the “little big dog” of the British Isles. He is a sturdy, workmanlike terrier with a cocky attitude, a zest for life, and a mustache that gives him an air of jaunty sophistication.

Often mistaken for a small Airedale or a Welsh Terrier, the Lakeland is a distinct breed with a personality all his own. He was bred to do a dangerous job—hunting foxes in the treacherous rock slides and fells of northern England—and he brings that same spunk and determination to being a lively family companion. He is a dog who walks on his tiptoes, always ready for the next adventure.

History and Origin: The Lord of the Fells

The Lakeland Terrier originated in the rugged Lake District of England (specifically Cumberland and Westmoreland). In the 1800s, farmers in this beautiful but harsh region needed a dog to protect their sheep from foxes. Unlike the hunts in the south of England, which used large packs of hounds and horses on open ground, the Lake District hunt required a special kind of dog.

The Rock Hunter

The foxes here didn’t run across fields; they hid in deep rocky crevices and burrows called “borrans.” A terrier had to be agile enough to leap over rocks, narrow enough to squeeze into deep cracks, and brave enough to face a trapped and angry fox underground. The Lakeland was built for this exact purpose. He was developed by crossing the old English Black and Tan Terrier with the Bedlington, Border, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers. He was originally known as the Patterdale Terrier or the Fell Terrier before being officially recognized as the Lakeland in the 1920s.

Physical Characteristics: Built for Tight Spaces

The Lakeland is a compact, rectangular dog. He is what is known as “slab-sided,” meaning his ribcage is relatively flat rather than barrel-shaped. This allowed him to squeeze into narrow rock fissures that would trap broader dogs.

• Height: Not exceeding 14.5 inches (37 cm).
• Weight: 17 pounds (7.7 kg) for males; 15 pounds (6.8 kg) for females.

Distinctive Features

• Head: Rectangular, with a strong muzzle and a flat skull.
• Ears: V-shaped and folded forward, framing the face.
• Coat: A hard, wiry double coat designed to protect him from rain and thorns. It doesn’t shed much.
• Furnishings: A distinctive beard and long hair on the legs give him a stylish, squared-off appearance.
• Color: He comes in a wider variety of colors than most terriers: blue and tan, black and tan, liver, red, wheaten, or grizzle.

Temperament and Personality

The Lakeland is often called the “Cock of the Walk.” He struts rather than walks.

The Bold Adventurer

He is absolutely fearless. He is curious and loves to explore. If there is a hole, he will investigate it. If there is a squirrel, he will chase it. He is always ready for a game or an outing. His energy is infectious.

The Friendly Scrapper

Unlike some sharper terriers who can be grumpy, the Lakeland is generally people-oriented and friendly. He is affectionate with his family and gets along well with children who respect him. However, he is a typical terrier when it comes to other dogs: he won’t start a fight, but he certainly won’t back down from one.

The Problem Solver

He is intelligent and independent. He was bred to work alone underground, making his own decisions. This translates to a dog who can open cabinets, escape from crates, and find the one flaw in your fence.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Active but Manageable

He is a high-energy dog, but his small size makes him manageable.

• Daily Needs: A brisk walk and some vigorous playtime in the yard are essential. Ideally, he should have a safe, fenced area to run.
• Mental Stimulation: He needs puzzles, toys, and training to keep his busy mind occupied. A bored Lakeland is a destructive Lakeland (usually involving digging or chewing).

Training: A Sense of Humor Required

• Motivation: You cannot force a Lakeland to do anything. He needs to think it’s his idea. Use toys, treats, and games.
• Variety: Keep training sessions short and varied. If you drill the same command 20 times, he will walk away.
• Recall: Like all terriers, he is not reliable off-leash. His prey drive is too strong.

Health and Lifespan

The Lakeland is a robust, healthy breed, often living 12 to 16 years.

• Lens Luxation: A genetic condition where the lens of the eye dislocates.
• Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: A hip condition common in small breeds.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease: A bleeding disorder.
• Most Lakelands are very hardy and see the vet only for checkups.

Grooming and Care

That stylish coat needs attention.

• Hand-Stripping: To maintain the proper hard texture and vibrant color, the dead hair must be plucked out by hand (stripped) several times a year. This is time-consuming and expensive.
• Clipping: Most pet owners choose to clip the coat with electric clippers. This is much easier, but be aware: it will soften the coat (making it more like wool), curl it, and fade the color significantly. A black and tan dog will become grey and tan.
• Brushing: He needs a weekly brushing to prevent mats in his beard and leg furnishings.
• Shedding: He is a low-shedding breed, often suitable for people with allergies.

Is a Lakeland Terrier Right for You?

The Lakeland is a charming rascal, but he is a terrier through and through.

Yes, if:

• You want a big personality in a small package. He is confident and funny.
• You are an active person. You want a walking buddy.
• You have a securely fenced yard.
• You appreciate independence. You don’t want a clingy dog.

No, if:

• You want a perfectly obedient soldier. He has his own agenda.
• You have small pets. Hamsters and rabbits are prey.
• You want a low-maintenance coat. He needs grooming.
• You are a first-time owner. His cleverness can outwit you.

If you can appreciate his spunk and handle his grooming, the Lakeland Terrier is a loyal, entertaining, and deeply affectionate friend who will keep you laughing—and keep you on your toes—for years to come.