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Lucas Terrier
Terrier breed from England
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Lucas Terrier
The Lucas Terrier is a small, sturdy terrier breed originating in England. It has a wiry coat and is known for being friendly, intelligent, alert, affectionate, and adaptable. Individual temperaments can vary. The breed's recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 6 to 9 kg for both males and females, and estimated adult height ranges from 25 to 32 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. Energy level is moderate (3 out of 5), trainability is above average (4 out of 5), grooming needs are moderate (3 out of 5), and shedding is low (2 out of 5). The breed is rated highly suitable for children (4 out of 5), compatible with other dogs (4 out of 5), and well-suited for apartment living (4 out of 5).
Quick facts
Lucas Terrier at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupTerrier
OriginEngland
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight6–9 kilogram
Female weight6–9 kilogram
Male height25–32 centimetre
Female height25–32 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Lucas Terrier was developed in England in the late 1940s by Sir Jocelyn Lucas. He crossed Norfolk Terriers and Sealyham Terriers with the aim of creating a small, sturdy working terrier that would have a more companionable temperament and fewer health problems. The breed was specifically bred for a friendly, non-quarrelsome temperament while maintaining robust health and working ability. The exact details of its early development and recognition history are not fully documented in the available sources, and its recognition status varies by registry. The breed's origins are rooted in the working terrier tradition of England, but specific historical events or dates beyond the late 1940s are not provided.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
6–9 kilogramAdult weight25–32 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesWiryCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyintelligentalertaffectionateadaptable
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Lucas Terrier-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Lucas Terrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight6–9 kilogramAdult female weight6–9 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Lucas Terrier?
The Lucas Terrier is a small breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 6 to 9 kg, and estimated adult height is 25 to 32 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Lucas Terrier?
The breed is described as friendly, intelligent, alert, affectionate, and adaptable. However, individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
How much exercise does a Lucas Terrier need?
The breed has a moderate energy level (3 out of 5). Daily exercise such as walks and playtime is recommended, but specific exercise requirements are not detailed in the available facts.
What are the grooming requirements for a Lucas Terrier?
The Lucas Terrier has a wiry coat. Grooming needs are moderate (3 out of 5), and shedding is low (2 out of 5). Regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping may be needed, but specific grooming routines are not provided.
Is the Lucas Terrier good with children and other dogs?
The breed is rated highly suitable for children (4 out of 5) and compatible with other dogs (4 out of 5). However, individual behavior depends on training and socialization.
Is the Lucas Terrier suitable for apartment living?
Yes, the breed is rated well-suited for apartment living (4 out of 5), likely due to its small size and adaptable temperament.
Where does the Lucas Terrier originate from?
The Lucas Terrier originates from England, developed in the late 1940s by Sir Jocelyn Lucas from crosses of Norfolk Terriers and Sealyham Terriers.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.