The Lakeland Terrier is a happy dog that makes a great pet. They can be kept in an apartment as long as they can be walked frequently. They do best in a properly fenced in yard for exercise but remember that they are diggers so pay attention to possibly burying some of the fence. They need to be extensively socialized to get along with other pets. They generally love older, considerate children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Lakeland Terrier is 13 to 15 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and about 17 pounds for the male and about 15 pounds for the female.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Lakeland Terrier is no exception. Although considered to be a very hardy breed, be on the look out for cataracts and lens luxation. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Lakeland Terrier has a double coat of soft inner and wiry hard outer hair. They may need loose hair plucked from the ear passages. The pads of their feet may also need to be trimmed. Their dead hair needs to be plucked several times a years and this is best done by a professional groomer.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The Lakeland Terrier can live between 12 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Lakeland Terrier comes from England where they were bred to hunt vermin. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1934.

Some Registries