The Lakeland Terrier might be small, but don’t underestimate them. Bred in England’s Lake District to hunt foxes and protect sheep, these wiry little daredevils are tough, fearless, and full of spark. They’ve kept their reputation as bold adventurers, but these days their biggest hunts are more likely to involve socks, shoes, or the neighbour’s cat.
As one long-time owner put it: “They are lovely little characters, full of life and energy … but they will chase anything small, dig holes … that is part of their charm.”
Still not sure if you can keep up with their energy? Take the Which Dog Breed is Best for Me? Take our quiz to see if Lakie is your perfect match.
Great Names for a Lakeland Terrier
With their wiry coats, mischievous eyes, and fox-chasing history, Lakies deserve names that pack a punch. Need more ideas? Head over to our Dog Name Generator for endless inspiration.
Fox-hunter nods: Reynard, Vixen, Rusty, Todd, Blaze
Adventurous: Scout, Dash, Trek, Pippin, Ranger
Classic terrier names: Jack, Molly, Alfie, Daisy, Max
Quirky & fun: Zoomie, Pickpocket, Nibbles, Chaos, Captain Bark
Pickles’ Aside: “Name one Chaos and don’t be shocked when the sofa cushions mysteriously explode.”
Exercise
Lakies were bred to run all day over rough terrain — so while they’re small, they’ve got stamina to spare. They need more than just a quick trot around the block.
- At least one long, interesting walk every day.
- Terrier games like digging boxes or tug are a must.
- Bored Lakie = redecorating project you didn’t ask for.
Owner insight: “Lakelands are working dogs. They need lots of exercise and stimulation … sometimes turn a deaf ear especially if something more interesting is around.”
Owner insight: “We got a new Lakeland Terrier last weekend (George) … we take him for walks 3 times a day.”
A Note on Working Breeds
Lakies are true working terriers, bred to flush foxes and protect flocks in the rugged Lake District. That heritage means stamina, stubbornness, and a keen sense of digging instinct. They are not low-maintenance pets, and without proper outlets for their energy, they’ll invent their own — often involving your sofa cushions, flowerbeds, or anything chewable.
As one owner put it bluntly: “If one gets bitten by a fox, they then seem convinced that every fox must die!”
Pickles’ Aside: “Translation: this isn’t a handbag dog — it’s a full-time mischief manager.”
Temperament
Think of the Lakeland Terrier as the James Bond of the terrier world — bold, independent, and a little cheeky. They’re fearless, loyal to their families, and always on the lookout for action.
- Brave and adventurous outdoors.
- Loving but not clingy indoors.
- Confident, sometimes stubborn — you won’t win every battle.
Owner insight: “Our Lakie has the biggest personality in the smallest body. He’s convinced he runs the whole street.”
Owner insight: “If one gets bitten by a fox, they then seem convinced that every fox must die!”
Training
Smart and spirited, Lakies love training that’s fun, fast-paced, and varied. But they’ve also got the terrier independence, which means if something more exciting comes along (say, a squirrel), your recall might suddenly vanish.
For help keeping that focus sharp, check out the World’s First AI Dog Trainer — personalised tips to outwit even the cheekiest terrier.
Owner insight: “We had to teach recall with a long line. Without it, she’s gone the second she sees a rabbit.”
Owner insight: “Nipping is an issue with some Lakies … firm but kind training is the only way through it.”
Pickles’ Aside: “Training a Lakie is like negotiating with a toddler: snacks are the secret.”
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
Lakies may be small, but they’ve got a big bark and aren’t afraid to use it. They make excellent watchdogs, quickly sounding the alarm at anything suspicious. Through early socialisation, they learn to distinguish between a friend and a foe.
Owner insight: “He’s like a furry doorbell — we know the postman’s here before he even rings.”
Other Animals
Lakies were bred to chase, so small furries (cats, rabbits, hamsters) are usually not safe. Dogs can be bold and sometimes bossy, especially with other terriers. Working-line Lakies are often even more prey-driven.
Owner insight: “Working Lakelands … tend to be harder to keep satisfactorily exercised unless you will work them properly.”
Pickles’ Aside: “Hierarchy is easy: Lakie first, everyone else second.”
Grooming
Their wiry double coat is weatherproof and smart-looking, but it does need attention. Hand-stripping is traditional, though many pet owners opt for clipping instead.
- Weekly brushing to prevent matting.
- Professional stripping or clipping every few months.
- Low shedding, but coat care is time-consuming.
Owner insight: “Hand-stripping is an art — we pay a groomer because doing it ourselves was a disaster.”
Health
Lakies are generally hardy, but like all breeds, a few issues crop up:
- Lens luxation (an eye condition common in terriers).
- Cataracts and other eye problems.
- Hip dysplasia (less common but still possible).
- Allergies in some lines.
Owner insight: “Our Lakie developed cataracts at 8, but surgery gave him his sparkle back.”
They typically live 12–15 years, sometimes longer, with good care. Choosing a responsible breeder is key — for advice, see our Best in Breeder Guide.
Cost of Ownership (UK)
Terriers may be small, but their bills can still add up, especially for grooming and insurance.
- Puppy price: £1,000–£1,800
- Food: £20–£40/month
- Insurance: £20–£45/month
- Routine vet care: ~£200–£300/year
- Grooming: £40–£70 every few months
Yearly Costs:
- Budget Year: ~£1,200
- Realistic Year: ~£2,000
- Chaotic Year: £3,500+ (emergencies + new sofa cushions)
Famous Owners & Moments
Lakeland Terriers are a bit of a British treasure. They’ve been shown at Crufts for over a century, and in 1967, a Lakie named Stingray of Derryabah won Best in Show at Westminster in New York. Not bad for a scruffy fox-chaser from the Lakes.
Myth-Busting
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| They’re lapdogs | Nope. They’ll cuddle after they’ve finished patrolling and digging. |
| Too small to need much exercise | Wrong — they’ve got stamina and drive. |
| Easy to train | They’re clever, but terrier-stubborn. Training is a team effort. |
| Good with all pets | Usually not — chasing is in their DNA. |
| Low-maintenance coat | False. That wiry coat needs proper care. |
Lakeland Terrier FAQs
Do they shed?
Very little, but coats need stripping or clipping.
Are they easy to train?
They’re smart but independent — consistency is key.
How much exercise do they need?
At least one long walk daily, plus games.
Are they good with kids?
Yes with older children who understand boundaries.
How long do they live?
Usually 12–15 years.
Thinking of Bringing Home a Lakeland Terrier?
If you want a fearless, cheeky companion who’ll keep you on your toes, the Lakeland Terrier could be your perfect match. They’re small in size but mighty in spirit — adventurous, loyal, and always up for fun.
Before you welcome one home, get prepared with our New Puppy Paw-rent Planner. And once your Lakie is settled, why not celebrate them with a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait?
Pickles’ Aside: “Small dog, big boss energy — don’t say I didn’t warn you.”
Breed Stats
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Origin: Lake District, England
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Weight: 7–8 kg
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Height: 33–38 cm
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Lifespan: 12–15 years
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Best Trait: Bold, adventurous, full of life
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Challenging Trait: Independent and chase-obsessed