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Fell Terrier Breed Description

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Breed Organization

United States Lakeland Terrier Club

Native Country
Great Britain

Other Names
Lakeland Terrier, Patterdale Terrier

Life Expectancy
Up to 16 Years

Litter Size
Average 3-5 Puppies

Breed Group
AKC Terrier

General Description

The Lakeland Terrier is small and sturdy. It is squarely proportioned, much like the Welsh Terrier, but smaller. His body is deep and narrow and his head is balanced and rectangular. The muzzle is strong and the nose is black and can be liver colored on liver dogs. The ears are small and V-shaped, folding over. The eyes are moderately small with an oval outline. Eye color comes in black, brown or dark hazel. The stop is barely noticeable. The front legs are strong and straight when viewed from the front. The teeth are relatively large and meet in a level, edge-to-edge or a slightly overlapping scissors bite. The Lakeland Terrier has a double coat. The outer coat is hard and wiry in texture and the undercoat is close to the skin and soft. The hair is usually cut so it is longer on the muzzle and legs. Coat colors come in solid blue, black, liver, red and wheaten. It also comes with saddle markings, where a second color covers the back of the neck, back, sides and up the tail. Saddle colors may be blue, black, liver or varying shades of grizzle. Puppies are often born black and change coloring as they grow. The tail is set high and generally docked.

Breed Standard

Head: Harmonious proportions. Flat skull. Broad muzzle. Powerful jaws. Black or brown nose.
Ears: Small, v-shaped, hanging close to the head.
Eyes: Hazelnut or dark color.
Body: Compact. Long neck without dewlap. Moderately narrow chest. Strong, short back.
Tail: Set high; carried gaily but not curled over the back. Typically docked.
Hair: Medium length, dense, weather-resistant, hard. Thick undercoat.
Coat: Black and tan, blue and tan, red, wheaten, red grizzle, liver, blue or black. Small spots of white on the feet and forechest are permissible.
Size: 34 to 37 cm (13,5-14,5 in).
Weight: 6,7 to 7,7 kg (15-17 lb).


History

The Lakeland Terrier originated in the counties of Cumberland and Westmoreland in northern England. The breed is thought to be the result of crosses between various terriers, including the Border Terrier, the Bedlington Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Fox Terrier and the Old English Terrier (now extinct). The Lakeland Terrier looks like a miniature Airedale Terrier. This working dog protects the flock, primarily from fox. The first Lakeland Terrier club was formed in 1912. The breed was recognized by The Kennel Club in 1921.


Behavior

This robust, lively, courageous, obstinate dog is as at home in the water hunting otters as he is on land hunting fox and badger. The Lakeland Terrier forms a strong bond with his owner. He has a happy disposition, is gentle with children and an excellent companion. Wary of strangers, he is an excellent, albeit small, guard dog. Gentle training is required.

This breed can adapt to life in the city, but requires considerable excercice. Daily brushing is required. This breed should be professionally groomed three times per year.

Function

Hunting Dog, Pet.


Health

This is a very robust breed. No known health issues.



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