Lakeland Terrier
Male: 7-8 kg, Female: 6-7.5 kg
33-37 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
United Kingdom (Lake District, England)
About the Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is a sturdy, workmanlike dog from the rugged Lake District of England. Developed to traverse steep, rocky terrain in pursuit of foxes that preyed on lambs, they are distinguished by their narrow-fronted build—an anatomical necessity for squeezing into tight rock crevices. Despite their small stature, they possess immense courage and a spirited personality that makes them standout members of the Terrier group. In a home environment, the Lakeland is a joyful and deeply loyal companion. They are famously 'big dogs in small bodies,' carrying themselves with a jaunty, upright posture and a keen, intelligent expression. While they are adaptable to various living situations, they thrive when provided with consistent boundaries and plenty of opportunities to engage their busy minds and athletic bodies.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Lakeland Terrier is defined by its 'narrow-fronted' utility and square, compact silhouette. A correct specimen displays a rectangular head with a flat skull and a powerful muzzle, topped by small, V-shaped ears that drop forward. Their movement is a hallmark of the breed—straight, free, and covering the ground with ease, showing great drive from the rear.
Bred For
Bolting foxes from rocky dens (fells) in the Lake District and protecting sheep from predators.
Temperament
Bold, gay, fearless, and confident; possess a 'cock-o'-the-walk' attitude while remaining friendly and affectionate with their family.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate to High. Requires daily long walks (45-60 minutes) combined with off-leash play in a secure area and mental stimulation like scent work or agility.
Grooming Needs
High. Requires regular brushing and professional hand-stripping (removing dead hair by hand) 2-3 times a year to maintain coat texture and color; they are low-shedding but prone to matting if neglected.
Living Suitability
Suitable for both apartment living and houses with yards, provided they receive sufficient daily exercise. They are active indoors and require a very secure yard, as they are proficient diggers and capable of squeezing through small gaps.
Good with Kids
Generally good with children, particularly older children who respect their boundaries. They are sturdy playmates but may have a low tolerance for rough handling.
Good with Other Pets
Can be assertive with other dogs and typically possess a high prey drive; they may not be suitable for homes with small furry pets like rabbits or cats unless raised with them from puppyhood.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent and occasionally stubborn. They respond best to positive reinforcement and variety in training to prevent boredom.
Coat & Colours
Dense, harsh, and wiry with a weather-resistant undercoat.. Black and tan, blue and tan, red, wheaten, red grizzle, liver, blue, or black.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Lakeland Terrier is a spirited companion, but prospective owners should be aware of several breed-specific traits. As a traditional fox-bolter, they possess a significant prey drive and a natural inclination to dig; your garden may require 'terrier-proofing' to protect your landscaping. They can be susceptible to skin allergies and atopic dermatitis—this doesn't mean every Lakeland will experience skin issues, but they are more likely to react to certain environmental or dietary triggers than other breeds. Maintaining their distinctive look requires professional hand-stripping, as clipping the coat can cause the texture to soften and the vibrant color to fade over time. Additionally, they are predisposed to certain eye conditions like Primary Lens Luxation (PLL); while responsible breeders test for this, it is something to monitor with your veterinarian. Their independent streak means they may 'selectively listen' if they find a scent more interesting than a command, but with patient, reward-based training, their brilliance truly shines.
Feeding Guide for Your Lakeland Terrier
Healthy Weight
6.8-8.0 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
150-230 grams
Lakeland Terriers thrive on a fresh, species-appropriate diet rich in lean proteins like kangaroo and beef. Owners should aim to feed approximately 2-3% of the dog's ideal adult body weight daily. For an average 7.5 kg adult, this equates to roughly 150g to 225g per day, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and individual metabolism.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, protein-rich diet; highly suited to raw and fresh food diets that support skin health and maintain lean muscle mass.
Including small amounts of leafy greens and fish oil can support their skin health. Portions should be carefully monitored to maintain a lean, athletic frame.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Lakeland Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Lakeland Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
3-5 puppies
Lakeland Terrier Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Lakeland Terrier owners
Other Small Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.