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Lakeland Terrier
If this smaller Airedale
look-alike was to be summed-up in one word, it would be
"courageous."
History:
The Lakeland Terrier
originated in the Lake District of England in the County of
Cumberland. The hills of this district hid a fox so wily that
a special breed was needed to stop lamb and poultry losses -
enter the Lakeland Terrier. A breed was created with all the
required attributes from a variety of Terriers. It is thought
that the Border, Bedlington, and Dandie Dinmont Terriers, as
well as the Fox Terrier, contributed.
The Lakeland Terrier is an old
breed originating around the 1700s. Hutchinson's Dog
Encyclopedia claims that this breed type has been known since
the time of John Peel. The most famous Lakeland Terrier is
Stingray of Derrybach, who won best in show at Crufts in 1967,
and then the following year won the top award at Westminster
in the US. This dog has been known by other names, such as the
Fell or Patterdale Terrier, but these names are no longer
used.
Physical
characteristics:
The Lakeland Terrier closely
resembles a small Airedale Terrier. Height: 13 - 15 in (33 -
38 cm). Weight: 15 - 17 lb (7 - 8 kg). This is a squarely
built dog, with longer legs than most Terriers - a legacy of
the need to keep up with Hounds during fox hunts. The double
coat has a wiry, water-proof and hard upper coat, and a soft
undercoat. The hair on the body and tail is short, and long on
the legs and face. The facial hair forms eyebrows, moustaches
and beard. The Lakeland comes in a variety of colors: blue and
tan, black and tan, red, wheaten, red grizzle, liver, blue, or
black. The tail is high set, carried high, and is usually
docked to about half length. Lakelands tend to have a narrow
chest, which enables them to fit through small openings to
chase their quarry.
Behavior:
The Lakeland Terrier has such
a strong personality and such endearing ways that it soon
becomes the center of all attention. Although it has such
superb good looks, it is wise not to be too permissive with
this dog, especially when it is young. The Lakeland has an
alert manner and a strong sense of protection for its owner,
and so makes a good watch-dog. It will appreciate the
stimulation of going out for regular walks.
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