Lakeland Terrier

Book excerpt: This Comprehensive Owner's Guide to the Lakeland Terrier serves as a complete introduction to this unique British terrier breed known for its prowess at seeking both quarry and comedy. The Lakey, as the breed is affectionately known, is a free-thinking little devil, smaller than most of the other long-legged terriers and more easygoing. The Lakeland Terrier, named for the Lake District in Britain, is unspoiled compared to many of his more popular earthdog brethren, and yet he is equally as bold, daring, and fearless as the larger Airedale, Irish, and Welsh Terriers.Written by Patricia Peters, well-known dog illustrator and Lakeland Terrier breeder of the famed Kilfel Kennels, this "Special Limited Edition" offers an opening chapter on the history of the breed, from its beginnings in the Lake District to its coming to the United States in the 1920s. The chapters on characteristics and the breed standard encapsulate all of the virtues and potential drawbacks of this cocky, little terrier breed, offering sound advice about which owners are best suited to handle the cunning "con artist" and clown of the Terrier Group.Potential owners will welcome the chapter on finding a breeder and selecting a health, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, and grooming are illustrated with handsome adults and puppies bursting with intelligence and mischief! In all, there are over 135 photographs in this compact, useful, and entertaining volume. The author's advice on obedience training the Lakeland Terrier, a bright and industrious breed that can pose a challenge to novice owners, will help readers better mold and train their dogs into the well-behaved canine citizens. The extensive and lavishly illustrated chapter on healthcare provides up-to-date detailed information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, parasites, infectious diseases, and more. A chapter on senior dog care gives readers insight into what's required to care for these long-lived terriers once they reach their golden years. A chapter on competing with the Lakeland Terrier in dog shows and various trials sponsored by the American Kennel Club gives owners a glimpse into the many possibilities of participating with their Lakeys in the dog sport. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as specialty shows, dental care, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, and parasite control.