Have you ever seen a puppy with a boundless amount of energy and a feisty, fearless spirit, all packed into a small, cute, and wavy-coated body? Well, let me introduce you to one of the most fascinating yet underestimated breed, the Lakeland terrier. Now, if I were to ask you to guess which type of dog has served as a muse for Beatrix Potter’s characters like “Roly-Poly Pudding” or has been awarded “Best in Show” twice at Crufts, one of the world’s largest dog shows, would you guess the Lakeland terrier? You are absolutely right.
Borland a lot of cheer and goodwill to the communities that it served, the Lakeland Terrier hails from the rugged and mountainous terrain of the Lake District in England. Originally bred for the grim task of protecting sheep from foxes, this lively and courageous terrier is now more often found charming families than chasing furry critters in the wilderness.
Many potential dog owners who are considering bringing a Lakeland terrier into their homes often wonder about the health of this breed. One of the first questions they usually ask is: Is a Lakeland terrier a healthy dog? The short answer? Generally, yes. But like every living creature, Lakeland terriers have their unique health predispositions and like every responsible dog owner, it is important to know about them, and how to avoid or manage them.
Firstly, one thing you will notice about the Lakeland terrier is their long lifespan. Have you ever heard of a dog that could live to be 16 years or even more? That’s right, Lakelands can! With an average life expectancy of 12-16 years, they’re one of the breeds that live the longest, and with the right care and treatment, they can often outlive their projected age.
This breed is generally regarded as quite robust, with many Lakelands living to a ripe old age with minimal health problems. But let’s delve deeper into the specific health complications that can potentially affect Lakeland terriers.
One health condition you might encounter with your Lakeland terrier is so peculiar that it has been named after the breed itself: the Lakeland Terrier Distichiasis! Distichiasis is a condition in which there’s an abnormal growth of eyelashes from the ducts of the meibomian glands found in dogs’ eyes. Although this condition is usually painless, the extra eyelashes can cause discomfort and irritation if they touch the cornea. But don’t worry, this is a minor condition that can be easily diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia, a condition that commonly affects many breeds of dogs, is another ailment that could potentially affect a Lakeland terrier. This condition causes a malformation in the hip joint ball and socket and can result in arthritis or lameness. However, don’t be too alarmed, it’s also less common in smaller dogs such as the Lakeland terrier.
Good news is, you can lessen the chances of your Lakeland Terrier developing these conditions by maintaining regular vet check-ups, feeding them a balanced diet, and ensuring regular exercise. Regular veterinary exams can detect early signs of health issues and provide preventive measures or treatments that can greatly improve the length and quality of your terrier’s life.
If you’re considering to get a Lakeland terrier from a breeder, it’s advised that you ensure they follow the best breeding practices. Reputable breeders will screen for health conditions in the parental dogs, and they will be transparent about their health history. Always ask to see the mom and if possible, the dad. Their size, temperament, and physical condition can provide valuable insight into how your puppy might turn out.
In the end, remember, no breed is completely immune from all health ailments. With its honorable lifespan and relatively small list of common medical conditions, it can be said that the Lakeland Terrier is indeed a healthier dog breed compared to many others. They are bundles of joy with a hardy constitution, waiting to light up your life.
So, whether you’re an active outdoor enthusiast looking for an energetic companion or a relaxed homebody in search of a family pet that is low-maintenance and long-lived, the Lakeland terrier might just be the ticket for you. With its combination of a sturdy body, a brave heart, and an insatiable zest for life, this healthful breed can certainly bring a great deal of happiness and cheer to your life for a very long time.
