Lakeland Breed Guide
Formal breed name: Lakeland Terrier
Also known as: Lakie
Compact and courageous, Lakeland Terriers are hardy working dogs whose bold personalities and moderate size suit those wanting portable terrier spirit.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
6-11 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
6-11 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Low
About Lakelands
Developed in England's Lake District during the 18th century, the Lakeland Terrier was bred to hunt foxes that preyed on sheep in the challenging fell country. Their compact size and fearless nature made them ideal for pursuing foxes through rocky terrain and underground dens.
Their dense, wiry coat requires hand-stripping twice yearly to maintain its weather-resistant properties. Lakeland Terriers are energetic and independent, known for their feisty nature and strong prey drive.
They are devoted to their families but can be aggressive toward other dogs and small animals if not properly socialised. Lakeland Terriers need substantial daily exercise and excel at activities that engage their hunting instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Lakelands
Expert advice on keeping your Lakeland healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing proper nutrition for your Lakeland requires careful attention to both quantity and quality of food. These energetic terriers thrive on a well-balanced diet that supports their active lifestyle, with appropriate portions of protein, fats, and carbohydrates tailored to their life stage. While their nutritional needs aren't especially complex, portion control plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health.
Establishing consistent feeding routines helps prevent weight gain, as Lakelands can become overweight if portions aren't carefully monitored. For adult dogs, measured meals twice daily typically suffice, while puppies require more frequent feeding to maintain stable blood sugar levels. A high-quality commercial diet that meets AAFCO standards generally provides sufficient nutrition without the need for special modifications.
When selecting food, consider your Lakeland's age, activity level, and overall health status. Puppies require specially formulated food to support growth and development, while senior dogs may benefit from adjusted protein levels and added joint support. Regular weight monitoring and consultation with your veterinarian can help ensure your feeding program maintains your Lakeland at an ideal body condition.
How healthy is your Lakeland?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Lakelands from our community of pet parents
Lakeland Terriers are known for their lively and cheerful disposition. They are intelligent, confident dogs with a fun-loving streak. They can be somewhat independent and stubborn, but with proper training, they can make enjoyable and affectionate family companions. Their alert nature also makes them good watchdogs.