The Lakeland Terrier originated in the Lake District of Cumberland, England, near the Scottish border. This breed has been known by a wide variety of names, such as the Patterdale, Fell, Cumberland, and Westmoreland Terrier.

Lakeland Terriers are a small breed standing between 13-15 inches and weighing in at 15-17 pounds. They have a distinct thick, wiry outer coat to protect them from the elements, with a soft undercoat. While puppies are often born dark, their coat can be a wide variety of colors. It may be solid blue, black, liver, red, or wheaten; or with saddle markings that cover the back of the neck, back, sides, and tail. The saddle may be blue, black, liver, grizzle. In countries where it is still allowed the tail of a Lakeland Terrier is docked.


The Lakeland Terrier dates back to the 1700s, originally a farmers dog the were used to exterminate foxes that raided the sheep during lambing season. They were likely developed from the now extinct Old English Black and Tan Terrier and several other crosses. Other breeds thought to have contributed to the bloodline are the Wire Fox, Border, Bedlington, and early Dandie Dinmont Terriers. Most terriers are only bred to bolt the fox or other quarry, but the Lakeland Terrier was unafraid to enter the lair and kill them.


Lakeland Terriers are a bold and confident breed. They are intelligent but independent, making some individuals difficult to train and hard to housebreak. Most get along well with children, but some can be dog aggressive, so it is important to socialize young. Lakeland Terriers can be wary of strangers and will not hesitate to bark if they think something is amiss.

The lifespan of a Lakeland Terrier is generally 13-14 years. They tend to be a very healthy breed.

Lakeland Terriers can adjust to apartment life, provided they get daily exercise. Any off leash time needs to be in a well secured area, as they retain a prey drive.

The coat of a Lakeland Terrier needs to be plucked two or three times a year, which requires the old hair to be pulled out by hand. They shed very little.