Lakeland terrier, breed of strong working terrier developed in the 18th and 19th cent. in the Lake District of England. It stands about 14 in. (35.6 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs about 17 lb (7.7 kg). Its short, dense coat is harsh and wiry and usually blue or black marked with tan, bluish black, red, grizzle, or wheaten. The Lakeland was originally bred to follow to ground and kill foxes that preyed upon the Lake District's livestock. To this end, it was common practice on the part of foxhunters to include several of these fearless terriers in their hound packs. Today, the Lakeland is chiefly raised as a pet. See dog.
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