Lakeland Terrier Training

Lakeland terriers are notoriously difficult to house train, in fact many breeds of terrier are difficult. One of the traits they were originally bred, and admired for is their independence and strong will, of much value in a working farm dog - not so useful in a pet!

The usual toilet training methods used with puppies are; taking him outside after meals, first thing in the morning last thing at night. Keep a very close eye on the puppy, and at the first sign that he's giving sign of weeing, take him quickly outside. Always praise him once he's done a wee outside - he will start to associate weeing outside with treats, so keep them coming!

If you do catch him in the middle of a wee (or worse!) try the 'startle' training. Put some pebbles or beads or dry beans into an empty plastic bottle, so that it makes quite a load noise when you shake it. If you catch your dog doing something he shouldn't, give the bottle a short, sharp shake - this is usually enough to stop him in his tracks and gives you time to get him outside. Remember to give him a treat if he finished his wee outdoors.

Try to avoid punishment for weeing in the wrong place, dogs have short memories and he's probably forgotten about it already!

Lakeland terriers were bred as working dogs, and like to be busy. Make sure you give him enough play time. If he gets bored he may amuse himself in ways you wouldn't approve of - like tearing up the post, chewing furniture etc

Lakeland terriers have great stamina and were originally bred to run with horses during fox hunting, so a quick 5 minutes to the park and back won't be enough!