Lakeland Terrier Complete Breed Guide

Lakeland Terriers are ambitious and curious. They have a stubborn side but exude love and trust when they feel the same in return. Once a “Lakey” sets its mind to something, it’s hard to deter them. If you’re considering this breed, prepare for plenty of barking, digging, and endless entertainment.

The Lakeland Terrier, also known as a “Lakey,” is an enthusiastic breed that provides non-stop entertainment. Lakeys are sturdy, kind, alert, and mischievous. They have a stubborn and destructive side, but even when they get into trouble, it’s hard to stay mad at them for long. Their devotion to you comes above everything else... except maybe that rat in the backyard. In typical terrior fashion, Lakeys have strong hunting instincts, so rodents and small animals don’t stand a chance. If you’re looking for a token terrier with a funny sense of humor, a Lakeland may be the perfect pup for you.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Lakeys are comfortable in homes or apartments as long as they get enough exercise. They tend to be reserved around strangers but are very open and receptive to people they’re familiar with. Lakeys get along well with older children, but without training, they aren’t friendly toward other dogs (especially terriers). If your Lakeland Terrier wasn’t raised around other animals, be sure to introduce and socialize it with other pets before forcing them to live together. These dogs can be stubborn when they feel like it, especially when it comes to marking their territory. Be prepared to train your pup with positive reinforcement and a strong yet playful approach.

Exercise & Activity

Lakeland Terriers are fans of having fun. They love daily exercise, walks, and training that keeps them stimulated. These dogs are smarter than they seem, so challenging them mentally and physically is the best way to tire them out and prevent issues at home. As a reward, they love to play off leash in a large, open area.

Lakeland Terriers have typical terrier personalities. They’re alert, attentive, and eager to please, which makes them wonderful watchdogs. Unfortunately, Lakeys also share the mischievous gene with the rest of their breed. Their history as ratters can cause a fun playtime to turn into a vicious chase at any moment. The breed’s stubborn and hunting-happy side is balanced out by devout appreciation and affection toward its family.

Lakeys have token terrier coats. Their sensitive skin is protected by a soft, fuzzy undercoat that sits under a wiry, thick, water-resistant outer layer. Their fur is usually curly or wavy and should be combed often. The Lakeland Terrier’s most distinct feature is their facial hair, which requires special grooming. These dogs come in many colors, but the most common are black and tan, blue and tan, reddish grey, black, blue, red, wheat, or liver.