Introduction
The Lakeland Terrier, also at times known as the Cumberland Terrier, the Fell Terrier, the Patterdale Terrier, the Colored Working Terrier and the Westmorland terrier, is one of the very oldest of all working terrier breeds existing today. It was bred above all for gameness – its willingness and ability to withstand the vicious attacks of foxes, badgers and otters defending their rocky dens. A true working terrier from the outset, the Lakeland Terrier has adapted well to the show ring. Their bold, friendly disposition also makes them valued companion dogs, as long as they are properly exercised. Lakelands do tend to bark more than many breeds. They also love to dig; if you prize your landscaping or garden, choose another breed. The Lakeland Terrier was approved for registration by the American Kennel Club in 1934, as a member of the Terrier Group. The United States Lakeland Terrier Club was founded in 1954, and is the breed parent club in this country.
The ideal height of a mature male Lakeland is 14½ inches at the withers, with up to a one-half inch deviation either way being permitted. Females may measure as much as one inch less than males. An adult male in hard show or working condition should weigh approximately 17 pounds, with females weighing proportionately less. The Lakeland Terrier’s dense, wiry, waterproof double coat should be hand stripped several times a year. Clipping is not acceptable for the show ring. The Lakeland does not shed profusely, but regular brushing can help to keep the coat clean and free of tangles. Lakeland Terriers can be solid blue, black, liver, red or wheaten. These colors can be accompanied by a “saddle” covering the top of the neck, back, sides and up the tail, in blue, black, liver or varying shades of grizzle. Grizzle is a blend of red or wheaten intermixed with black, blue or liver. The rest of the dog (head, throat, shoulders and legs) should be wheaten or golden tan.
The Lakeland Terrier was bred and raised in England in the 1800s - long before there was a kennel club, an official studbook or packs of refined foxhounds leading hunters on horses. Terrier experts believe that the Lakeland may share distant ancestors with the Border Terrier, and that it may well be an offshoot of the terrier today known as the Bedlington, which is closely related to the Dandie Dinmont. Most breed fanciers agree that
Like all terrier breeds, the Lakeland is a fearless dog with a heart of gold. They love to run and chase and thrive on outdoor activity, and will play with the zeal of a puppy, even as an adult. Lakelands are good family dogs and enjoy the company of older, well behaved children. They are reserved with strangers, but are generally not aggressive toward people. Lakelands, though they love the company of people, have an
The Lakeland Terrier is a solid dog with a deep, narrow body that allows him to fit into the dens of the vermin he is often charged with hunting. A Lakeland is of square proportions (females may be slightly rectangular), and should be sturdy and workmanlike in his appearance. The neck is long, leading into high withers and a short topline. The tail is set high on the body and is almost always docked. The
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