Lakeland Terrier Rescue is a noble endeavor that requires dedication and compassion. The Lakeland Terrier breed was originally developed in England to hunt small game.
The Lakeland Terrier has a unique appearance, with a wiry coat and a distinctive "otter" head. This breed requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Lakeland Terriers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them a great fit for families with children. They are also relatively small in size, weighing between 13-15 pounds.
If you're considering adopting a Lakeland Terrier, it's essential to research reputable rescue organizations to ensure you're getting a healthy and well-cared-for dog.
Physical Characteristics
The Lakeland Terrier's physical characteristics are a testament to its robust build and agile nature. They typically present a square or slightly off-square profile.
Their well-proportioned body is essential for their agility and endurance, making them capable and resilient companions. A strong neck and level back contribute to their alert and confident demeanor.
Their robust constitution, with strong bones and well-developed musculature, is a result of their breeding history, making them well-suited for active lifestyles.
Head, Ears & Expression
The Lakeland Terrier's head is a key feature that sets it apart from other breeds. It's not every day you'll see a Lakeland Terrier with the ideal head, ears, and expression.
The headpiece is unique, and it's not something that every Lakeland Terrier will possess. Not every Lakeland Terrier shown or finished will have the ideal head, ears, and expression.
Coat Characteristics
Lakeland Terriers have a distinctive double coat that's crucial to their rugged appearance.
The outer coat is dense, wiry, and harsh, providing protection from harsh weather and rough terrain.
Their undercoat is softer and provides insulation, a necessary feature for a breed that hails from the often cold and wet English Lake District.
Lakeland Terriers have a thick, hard topcoat and a soft undercoat.
When they're hand stripped to show their outline, they have a neat, workmanlike appearance.
Their coat can be trimmed short and smooth in certain areas, such as the head, ears, forechest, shoulders, and behind the tail.
The long hair on their legs gives them a cylindrical appearance.
Lakeland Terriers come in many colors, including blue, black, liver, red, and wheaten.
Some have a tan saddle that covers the back of the neck, back, sides, and up the tail, making them blue and tan, black and tan, or liver and tan.
They can also be red grizzle or grizzle and tan, with a saddle that's a deep, rich red over a tan base.
Lakeland Terriers don't shed much, especially if their coat is kept stripped.
Stripping is a technique that involves plucking the dead hair by hand or removing it with a stripping knife or other stripping tool.
Their coat can be clipped, but the texture and color will become softer and lighter.
Lakeland Terriers have a wiry coat that sheds very little, which helps minimize the amount of pet dander and hair in the environment.
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Temperament and Behavior
Lakeland Terriers are busy dogs that make the most of every day, always investigating, playing, running, and chasing.
They require daily exercise in a safe area to settle down in the home and become entertaining and endearing house pets.
With strangers, Lakeland Terriers can be reserved and even aggressive toward other dogs and small animals.
Despite their independent streak, they value attention and time spent with their loved ones, demonstrating their affection through playful behavior, cuddling, and loyalty.
Their intelligence also means they can be independent thinkers, requiring consistent and creative training approaches to keep them engaged and responsive.
Temperament
The Lakeland Terrier's temperament is a unique blend of spunkiness and sensitivity. They're always on the go, investigating, playing, and running around, making them a lively companion.
Given daily exercise in a safe area, they settle down nicely in the home and can be quite entertaining. However, they can be aggressive towards other dogs and small animals, so it's essential to socialize them properly.
Lakeland Terriers are clever and independent, which can sometimes lead to mischief. They require patient and humorous training to help them understand what's expected of them.
Despite their independent streak, they value attention and time spent with their loved ones. They demonstrate their affection through playful behavior, cuddling, and loyalty, making them endearing companions.
Are They Smart?
Lakeland Terriers are indeed smart and capable of learning quickly.
Their keen intelligence and problem-solving abilities make them adept at adapting to new situations.
They can excel in various canine sports and activities that challenge their minds.
However, their intelligence also means they can be independent thinkers, which requires consistent, creative training approaches to keep them engaged and responsive.
Do They Bark?
Lakeland Terriers can be vocal and may bark more than some other breeds. They are alert and keen watchdogs, often quick to sound the alarm at unfamiliar sounds or sights.
With proper training and socialization, excessive barking can usually be managed effectively.
Health and Upkeep
The Lakeland Terrier is a relatively healthy breed, but like all breeds, it's not immune to certain health issues. Major concerns are rare, but minor concerns like lens luxation and distichiasis can occur.
Their lifespan is typically between 12-16 years, making them a long-term companion. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health and address any potential issues promptly.
To keep your Lakeland Terrier in top shape, consider the following grooming and exercise expectations:
Exercise needs can be met with a moderate daily walk, followed by access to a secure area for running and play. Mental stimulation is just as important, so engage your Lakeland Terrier with puzzle toys, training sessions, and new tricks to keep their mind active.
Upkeep
To keep your Lakeland Terrier happy and healthy, you need to make sure they get enough exercise. A moderate walk on leash or a hardy game in the yard can usually satisfy their exercise needs.
Daily entertainment is a must for this active breed, or they'll make their own fun - which can sometimes be destructive. Providing mental stimulation through puzzle toys, training sessions, and new tricks can help mitigate potential boredom.
A Lakeland Terrier's coat needs to be combed one or two times weekly, and scissoring, shaping, and clipping around four times yearly. Clipping softens the coat and lightens the color, but it's not necessary for their overall health.
You should spend 15 to 30 minutes a week to brush and comb your Lakie, then give them a rubdown with a towel to remove any dirt and excess body oils. This regular routine will prevent tangles and keep their coat looking its best.
Here's a quick rundown of the grooming needs for a Lakeland Terrier:
Regular ear checks and cleanings can help prevent infections, particularly important for a breed with folded ears. Dental hygiene is also crucial for preventing gum disease and tooth loss, so be sure to brush their teeth at least two or three times a week.
Health
As you consider bringing a Lakeland Terrier into your family, it's essential to be aware of the potential health concerns that come with this breed. Major health concerns for Lakeland Terriers are relatively rare, but minor concerns include lens luxation and distichiasis.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial in monitoring and addressing these potential health issues. Suggested tests for Lakeland Terriers include eye exams and testing for von Willebrand's Disease.
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Lakeland Terriers are known for their robustness and longevity, with an average life span of 12-16 years. This is a significant advantage for owners who are willing to provide the necessary care and attention.
Here are some potential health risks to be aware of:
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: a degenerative condition that affects the head of the femur (thigh bone)
- Von Willebrand's Disease: a blood disorder that affects the clotting process
- Hip Dysplasia: a malformation of the hip joint
- Eye Problems: including cataracts and primary lens luxation
- Skin Issues: including skin irritations and allergies
Feeding & Nutrition
Feeding your Lakeland Terrier a balanced diet is crucial for their health and wellbeing. Proper nutrition should be tailored to their age, weight, activity level, and overall health.
Lakeland Terrier puppies require a diet that supports rapid growth and development without excessive weight gain. They typically do well on small, frequent meals.
Adult Lakeland Terriers usually thrive on two meals a day, which establishes a predictable eating schedule and contributes to better digestive health and weight management.
The amount of food your Lakeland Terrier needs can vary, so it's best to start with the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging and adjust as necessary. Monitoring their weight and body condition is crucial.
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You should be able to feel your Lakeland's ribs but not see them. If they're gaining or losing too much weight, adjust their food intake and consult a veterinarian.
Fresh, clean water should always be available to your Lakeland Terrier, especially given their propensity for vigorous activity. Proper hydration is essential for their overall health.
If you choose to supplement your Lakeland's diet with fresh, whole foods, introduce them slowly and in moderation to avoid digestive upset. Make sure these additions are safe and beneficial for your dog.
Health and Upkeep
Lakeland Terriers have a distinct double coat that's pivotal to their characteristic appearance. The outer coat is dense, wiry, and harsh, providing protection from harsh weather and rough terrain.
Their undercoat is softer and provides insulation, a necessary feature for a breed that hails from the often cold and wet English Lake District. This dual-layer coat helps keep the dog dry and warm.
Regular brushing and grooming are necessary to remove loose hairs and maintain the coat's condition. Lakeland Terriers are considered a low-shedding breed, thanks to their wiry coat that typically retains dead hair until it's removed through grooming.
Overall, they shed significantly less than many other dog breeds, making them a suitable choice for people who wish to minimize pet hair in their home.
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How Long Do They Live?
Lakeland Terriers can live for 12 to 15 years with proper care.
Their longevity is a testament to their robust nature and the care provided by dedicated owners.
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to ensuring a Lakeland Terrier lives a full and healthy life.
A nutritious diet and regular exercise also contribute to a long and healthy life for these dogs.
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When Do I Stop Growing?
Lakeland Terriers typically reach their full adult size between 12 to 14 months of age. Some may continue to fill out and gain muscular maturity until they are around 18 months old. Providing a balanced diet and appropriate exercise during their growth period is crucial for proper development.
It's essential to ensure your Lakeland Terrier gets enough nutrients to support their growth. A well-balanced diet will help them develop properly.
Sources
- AKC.TV (akc.tv)
- United States Lakeland Terrier Rescue (usltc.org)
- Lakeland Terrier Rescue (rescueme.org)
- Abandoned Terrier Rescue Association (atrarescue.com)
- Lakeland Terrier | Breeds A to Z (thekennelclub.org.uk)
- Lakeland Terrier Dog & Puppy Breed and Adoption Info (petfinder.com)
- FCI Lakeland Terrier Breed Standard (fci.be)
- ANKC Lakeland Terrier Breed Standard (dogsaustralia.org.au)
- CKC Lakeland Terrier Breed Standard (ckc.ca)
- UKC Lakeland Terrier Breed Standard (ukcdogs.com)
- United States Lakeland Terrier Club, Inc. (USLTC) (usltc.org)
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