Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is described by the AKC as friendly, confident, bold, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 14.5-15 inches (male), slightly smaller (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 17 pounds (male), slightly smaller (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Confident / Bold [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 157 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
When raised properly, Lakelands are not a hyperactive breed. A good, long walk or brisk jog daily along with frequent opportunities to run in a securely fenced area should keep them fit both physically and mentally. One longtime breeder notes: "Physically, Lakelands can get enough exercise if they live in a two-story house. [1]
Grooming
Lakelands have a beautiful, harsh double coat when maintained properly by hand plucking. Finding someone who can pluck (or "strip") a coat is difficult, however. Clippering the coat will also suffice, but with this the color and texture of the coat will fade. [1]
Health issues to budget for
There are very few breed health conditions specific to the Lakeland Terrier, and none that have been reported at more than a very low incidence. As with all breeds, a Lakeland's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Lakeland Terrier in 1934. [1]
- It ranked No. 157 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 141 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Lakeland, Lakie.” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Lakeland Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Lakeland Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 14.5-15 inches (male), slightly smaller (female) and weight 17 pounds (male), slightly smaller (female).
How much are vet bills for a Lakeland Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Lakeland Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.