Appearance of the Lucas Terrier
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As a working dog, it's important for the Lucas Terrier to be well balanced and in good proportion, with no exaggerated features that would hinder its movements or working ability. They have a fairly broad skull and a well-defined stop leading to a strong jaw. Their noses are always black, while their oval eyes are dark and melancholy. Their V-shaped ears should not be too large and will flop forward in a half-pointed position. Their necks are relatively broad and should blend perfectly into their bodies. Their straight legs should be strong and powerful with adequate musculature. Their chest is deep and their ribs slender. Their coat is straight and hard with good weather-resistant qualities. Most dogs have a black and tan or bronze coat, although some are white and others may be blue. Females weigh between 5 and 8 kilos, while the slightly larger male will weigh between 6 and 9 kilos. Males measure around 25 to 30 centimeters at the withers, while females reach a height of 23 to 28 centimeters. |
Temperament of the Lucas Terrier
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Gentle and well-mannered, these little dogs have an even temperament and a real zest for life. Happy to take part in almost any activity, they love to experience new things and will try anything. Perhaps their best asset is their adaptability, they can easily fit into any household as a pet, while having the opportunity to make a superb Terrier at the same time. Impertinent and feisty, it's true that this little dog can sometimes be a challenge, although any mischief they stir up is always done without malice. They make good playmates for children, and are both gentle and caring. Likewise, they are an excellent breed for the elderly, offering wonderful companionship, although they need regular exercise and playtime. Lucas Terriers get on well with other dogs and love to make new friends. More reserved breeds, however, may find them a little too boisterous, so introductions should be made slowly. Not surprisingly, all small furry animals, such as guinea pigs or ferrets, are not safe in the company of the Lucas Terrier, whose prey will quickly engage. While this dog can make a good watchdog, it's not overly vocal and may therefore allow a visitor into its home without warning. They are far too friendly to be considered a guard dog, and a different breed should be considered if this role were required. |
Needs and activities of the Lucas Terrier
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Although this is a dog that loves to be outdoors, they adapt well to life in a small house or apartment and are very happy to live the majority of their lives indoors. That said, they do need a fair amount of exercise every day, usually 30 to 40 minutes on foot. Ideally, they would also have free time in a secure back garden, allowing them to display their more natural behaviors. Anecdotally, this is a dog that likes to dig, so care should be taken if left unsupervised in the back garden, as new holes may soon appear. Digging tends to be a response to boredom, so try to keep your Lucas Terrier busy by providing plenty of exercise, as well as mental stimulation, which may include hide-and-seek games or puzzles that will only release treats in some cases. |
Maintenance of the Lucas Terrier
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These dogs rarely shed, even if they are not classified as hypoallergenic. It's often said that they don't smell like dogs, so they can be a good option for owners who are particularly sensitive to odors. They may need to be stripped by hand several times a year to help shed fur and allow new fur to grow. This task can be carried out over several days, especially if your dog becomes restless. Check the Lucas Terrier's ears every few days, turning the pinna over and making sure the canal is pale and clean. Wax can be removed with an ear cleaner and some dry cotton. |