Living With a Lakeland

When considering any breed for a pet, it is important to remember that "one man’s pleasure is another man’s poison". The same traits that make the Lakeland an incomparable worker and a prized show dog can make him a much-loved companion for one but a constant source of frustration for another. He lives by his instincts and the qualities that have been bred into him for nearly two centuries cannot be changed. He is first, foremost and always a Lakeland!

Although each dog has its own unique personality, there are certain traits common to the breed that allows some predictability in determining how a dog will adapt to most situations. Equipped with the necessary information, it is possible to delve into the Lakeland psyche and analyze how his little mind works. Comparing his needs to yours should enable you to determine how well you suit each other and whether this could be a workable relationship.

Size

At a height of 14 1/2 inches at the shoulder and weighing approximately 17 pounds, the Lakeland is a relatively small dog and does not require a huge living space. However, he is an active dog and does require an outlet for his energy. He loves to run, jump and play and needs the space outdoors to exercise. A high, non-climbable fence, with no more than 3 inches between the boards, is an absolute necessity.

Exercise

Do not let the Lakeland’s size fool you. He has tremendous stamina and can outlast even the largest dog. He does not have to be on the go constantly but thrives on activities such as hiking, swimming and regular walks, always on a lead. He is very good at exercising himself but should not be left outside for long periods of time. A bored Lakeland can find a way out of any yard. Because of his love for water, he must be closely supervised around swimming pools.

Training

Although the Lakeland can be stubborn, he is very trainable. His phenomenal memory makes him a fast learner but he must be motivated. There has to be a reasonable purpose for everything he does and a sizeable reward. You must remember what he was bred to do. No amount of training will alter his basic instincts. He has a short attention span, bores easily and will not respond to physical corrections. Reward him with things he loves-toys, treats, playtime-and his weaknesses will be your strengths.

The Coat

Appearance is usually the first thing that attracts people to the Lakeland but a specialized grooming technique known as ‘hand stripping’ is required to retain that appearance. Properly maintained, the coat is one of the breed’s best features. It is waterproof, dirt repellant and it does not emit the usual doggy odor.  Shedding is minimal and because the coat is not prone to matting, the Lakeland does not require daily brushing or combing.

Grooming

Many people are frightened away from this breed because of the unusual grooming method but the Lakeland actually requires much less maintenance than most coated dogs. His hair, unlike that of other breeds, does not grow continuously but reaches a maximum length of approximately four inches. At this point, the coat is dead and needs to be plucked out to make room for new growth. This process is called stripping and can be done with the fingers or with the aid of stripping tools. It does not hurt the dog but feels more like a good back scratch.

Because clippering dogs is faster and more profitable, few professional groomers are prepared to devote the time to stripping a Terrier. Owners who opt to have their dogs clippered should be aware that clipping cuts off the texture, color and eliminates the benefits of the wire coat. Like any soft coated breed, the clippered Lakeland will absorb water, dirt and need regular bathing. His coat will shed more and will require more frequent combing to prevent matting. His striking color will become a pale grey or washed out tan. Once a Lakeland has been clipped, it is difficult to regain the original color and texture without causing discomfort to the dog.

Character

The single most appropriate word to describe the Lakeland’s character is intense. He tackles everything wholeheartedly and has a ‘why walk if you can run’ attitude. He is a happy dog with an enthusiastic zest for life and appears to be smiling most of the time (or maybe he is just laughing at us). A playful puppy at heart, he is always ready for any game or activity. He has a special love for children but is equally satisfied living with adults.

To live with this breed, you have to appreciate his intelligence. You must also be equally as smart or he will outwit you at every turn. It is a game he thoroughly enjoys. He is a thinking animal who can quickly size up a situation and devise a way to take advantage of it. He is a clown , with a wonderful sense of humor and one of his greatest rewards is making you laugh. Full of self-esteem, the Lakeland knows everything was put here for his amusement. He is an attention getter and a traffic stopper. People are instantly attracted to him and he accepts it as his due.

Health

One of the healthier breeds, the Lakeland has a lifespan often upwards of 15 years. There are few genetic disorders which affect the breed. Prospective owners should ask breeders for eye clearances (lens luxation, PRA) , Von Willebrand’s (bleeding disorder similar to Hemophilia) and thyroid test results. Although hip dysplasia is not a problem, Luxating Patella (dislocating knee caps) and Legg Calves Perthes (degenerative disease of the head of the thigh bone) can sometimes occur. Dogs with these disorders should not be used for breeding.

Temperament

Despite the Lakeland’s reputation as a tenacious hunter, he should never display overt signs of aggression to people or other dogs. This behavior is not indicative of ‘Terrier spirit’ but is an indication of unsound temperament. The Lakeland, however, will not back down if openly provoked by another dog. A natural watchdog, he is blind to size, knows no fear and will protect his loved ones from anything that he perceives as a threat. Equally as unstable in temperament is the overly shy and fearful Lakeland. Dogs who display these traits can easily become fear biters. The typical Lakeland is alert, curious, friendly, and self-confident.

Expectations

Be reasonable in your expectations. There are drawbacks to every breed and you cannot expect more from your dog than he is capable of giving. If you have a sedentary lifestyle, do not expect the Lakeland to live without an outlet for his energy. He will become frustrated and destructive. If your lifestyle requires you to be away from home all day, do not expect the Lakeland to be alone for hours on end. He will be miserable and he will make you pay. If you have other pets such as gerbils or hamsters, do not expect the Lakeland to co-exist with them. He will do exactly what he was bred to do. Do not expect a Lakeland to be blindly obedient, living only to please you. He is not a Golden Retriever. Do not expect him to be a lap dog. He is not a Toy Poodle. Do not expect a Lakeland to be another ‘Lassie’. If Timmy falls down the well, the Lakeland is not going for help. He is jumping in to see what new game has been devised.

Whatever breed you choose, you will be making a commitment for many years. Your dog will need constant care and attention but, if you choose wisely, it will be a rich and rewarding experience. The advantages in owning a Lakeland are endless. In spite of his fierce reputation as a working dog, he is a gentle and loving pet. He will charm, delight and entertain you. He will never blindly be your slave but, once you have earned his respect, you will have his undying devotion. One thing almost all Lakeland owners agree on is that a dog is for life but a Lakeland is forever!