Lakeland Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • West Highland White Terrier is the larger breed at 15–20 lbs (males) vs 17 lbs for the Lakeland Terrier.
  • The Lakeland Terrier sheds less.
  • The Lakeland Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLakeland TerrierWest Highland White Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandScotland
Height (male)
14–15"11"
Height (female)
14–15"10"
Weight (male)
17 lbs15–20 lbs
Weight (female)
17 lbs15–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
wirehairedwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Lakeland Terrier

The Lakeland Terrier is a bold, friendly, confident terrier from England's Lake District — fox-hunter with a square jaw. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, friendly, confident.

About the West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier is a loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, happy, entertaining.

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Lakeland Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes

West Highland White Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Skin allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Liver disease