Overview
The Lakeland Terrier was bred in the Lake District to work alongside hunts in rough fell country, going to ground after foxes among rock and scree. It is a narrow, long-legged terrier with a harsh wire coat in colours from red and wheaten to black and tan, and a confident, upright bearing. In Britain it is uncommon now but never quite rare.
Expect a dog with plenty of opinions. Lakelands are affectionate and fun but they have the full terrier package: prey drive, persistence, a willingness to stand up to bigger dogs, and a hearing problem that comes on whenever a squirrel appears.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day across two walks suits most Lakelands, and they will take more if offered. They are tough, weatherproof dogs that are happy in rain and mud, and they enjoy a brisk pace with plenty of hedgerow to investigate.
A tired Lakeland is a good Lakeland. If the route is tame, add some training or a scent game to use up the mental energy as well.
On the walk
- Prey drive: Squirrels, rats, rabbits and anything that moves in a hedge. Keep the lead on near roads and be ready for a sudden dive into undergrowth.
- Other dogs: Bold and not inclined to back down. Lakelands often get on fine with dogs they know but can take exception to pushy strangers. Manage greetings and watch for stiffening.
- Recall: Good on a quiet day, poor when the nose takes over. Use a long line until you have seen how this dog responds in distraction.
- Going to ground: A dog bred to enter holes will enter holes. Keep an eye on the dog around badger setts, rabbit warrens and drains.
Tips for professional walkers
- Keep high-value treats for recall and use them only for that.
- Choose routes with variety: a Lakeland on the same loop every day gets bored and inventive.
- Check the wiry coat for burrs and seeds, especially the beard and legs.
- Avoid letting the dog greet other terriers head-on in a narrow space.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to other dogs, particularly other terriers and dogs of the same sex?
- Has it ever gone to ground on a walk, and how did you get it out?
- Is the recall reliable enough for off-lead time, and where do you usually let it run?