Lakeland Terrier
Great Britain, Large and medium sized Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 33–37 cm
- Weight
- 6.8–8 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Bold
- Friendly
- Confident
- Energetic
- Determined
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is a small-to-medium terrier from the Lake District in northern England, bred to control foxes that threatened lambs. It is a compact, square-built dog with a harsh, wiry coat, a bearded face and a lively, confident attitude. It is often seen in black and tan, wheaten or grizzle shades.
Temperament
Bold, friendly and confident, often cheerful with family but able to be feisty with other dogs. Typical terrier persistence means training should be consistent and fun.
Exercise
Needs about an hour of daily exercise and mental play. It enjoys outdoors and digging, so a secure garden is helpful.
Grooming
Wiry coat that needs weekly brushing and regular hand-stripping or professional grooming to maintain texture.
Care & wellbeing
Provide secure fencing, as it may dig or chase small animals. Keep dental care up and weight steady.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 7.4 kg adult- Water
- 296 ml–444 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 500 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Lakeland Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A British terrier from the Lake District in England, developed to deal with foxes preying on sheep in rocky terrain. Its small, wiry build and courage made it a farm worker and later a show dog.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Lens luxation
- Skin conditions
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- DNA test for lens luxation
- Eye tests
Not every Lakeland Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Lakeland Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Lakeland Terrier get?
Adult Lakeland Terriers typically stand about 33–37 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 6.8–8 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Lakeland Terriers live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Lakeland Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Lakeland Terrier need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Lakeland Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Lakeland Terriers shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Lakeland Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Lakeland Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Lakeland Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to lens luxation, skin conditions, hip dysplasia. Not every Lakeland Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Large and medium sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1954