The Lakeland terrier is a great dog, whether it's being used for hunting or as a family pet. Many owners enjoy this dog so much that they think about breeding the dog, so they may own more than one. Often when owners are so fond of their dog, they want to have one of its pups to "carry on the genes" of their beloved dog. The Lakeland terrier is part of what is known as a Vulnerable Native, meaning that they are of British origin and in danger of becoming extinct because they are declining in numbers and their world status is diminishing.
This may be another reason owners would want to have their Lakeland terrier bred - to continue the generations of this breed. Breeding, however, is a large decision that carries with it many responsibilities. It's much more than just having your female bred with another Lakeland terrier and patiently waiting for the cute little puppies to be born.
One of the most important parts of breeding is being a responsible breeder. If you don't have the experience and knowledge of the breed, don't breed. Leave the breeding to an expert. However, if you are insistent in wanting to have your dog bred and feel you are properly prepared, there are certain details and facts you need to remember.
When breeding dogs, your main intention should always be to improve the breed by bringing out the good qualities of the breed and weeding out the bad qualities. This cannot always be done unless you are familiar with the genetics of the dogs involved (family history etc.). Gather as much information as you possibly can about the stud you are using to breed your female, on the pedigree as well as meeting the dog and any ancestors of the dog. The same goes for your female. Always speak with any knowledgeable breeders you may know. If they are respectable and responsible breeders, they will help you in any way they can.
It's also important that your bitch be in as good of physical condition as possible before she is bred. Pregnancy and delivery takes a lot out of a dog, physically, emotionally and nutritionally. Have a vet give your dog a complete physical and assurances that the dog is in good shape for breeding. Make sure your dog is on a good quality dog food before and during the pregnancy. The puppies will take a lot of nutrition from the mother, even before they are born so the mother should not lack anything for good food.
Don't always assume because your female is a great dog and the father is a great dog that the puppies will all be the same. As with children, all puppies are different. How they turn out as adult dogs is part genetics and part training and how they're raised. You control the genetics before they're born and the training after they're born.
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