Lakeland Terrier
Description
The Lakeland Terrier is a compact, sturdy breed with a wiry double coat that protects it from harsh weather. Originating in England's Lake District, it was bred to control vermin threatening sheep, showcasing a fearless and tenacious spirit. This breed typically weighs between 14 and 17 pounds, making it agile and quick on its feet. Its coat comes in a variety of colors including black, liver, wheaten, and brindle, each with a distinctive rough texture that requires specific grooming. Known for its confident and curious nature, the Lakeland Terrier is independent but can be stubborn during training. It tends to be wary of small animals due to its strong prey drive, so early socialization is crucial. Friendly with children and cautious with strangers, this terrier thrives in active households that can meet its exercise and mental stimulation needs.
Grooming
The Lakeland Terrier's wiry double coat demands consistent care to maintain its texture and appearance. Weekly carding helps remove dead hair trapped in the coat, preventing matting and keeping the dog comfortable. A light slicker brush can be used gently but avoid over-brushing to preserve the coat's natural roughness. Handstripping every 8 to 12 weeks is essential to maintain coat quality and vibrant color, especially for show dogs or those kept in prime condition. Color care varies slightly; for instance, lighter wheaten coats may show dirt more easily and benefit from occasional spot cleaning. Black and liver coats typically require less frequent washing but still need regular brushing to avoid dullness. - Card coat weekly to remove dead hair - Use light slicker brushing carefully - Handstrip every 2 to 3 months - Spot clean wheaten coats as needed - Avoid over-bathing to protect coat oils Pro tip: Schedule handstripping sessions before seasonal changes to keep your Lakeland looking sharp year-round.
Learn the Wiry routine:
→ Complete Wiry Grooming Guide
Walking
Lakeland Terriers need about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage their stamina and curiosity. Morning walks can focus on brisk exercise to burn off energy, while evening strolls should emphasize mental stimulation through varied routes or scent work. This breed enjoys exploring but requires consistent leash training to manage its strong prey drive and tendency to bark at small animals. A practical daily routine might look like this: - Morning: 40 minutes brisk walk with short recall training - Evening: 30 minutes relaxed walk with scent games Keep walks engaging to prevent boredom and reinforce good behavior.
Boarding
When boarding a Lakeland Terrier, a crate size of 30 to 36 inches provides enough room for comfort without excess space that might encourage restlessness. This breed enjoys active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Avoid small-animal toys as their prey drive can trigger unwanted behaviors. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the dog feel secure. Secure fencing is crucial during outdoor time to prevent escapes, as Lakelands are known climbers and explorers. Providing consistent enrichment and clear boundaries helps reduce stress and encourages positive interactions with caregivers.