Patterdale terriers are high energy terriers that were bred in the Lake District, Cumbria.
They were originally bred for Fox and Badger hunting and are popular dogs to have on farms. These days the working Patterdale terrier is usually used for ratting and protecting Game Birds on a hunt.
Patterdales are usually brown or black in colour and can have coarse or smooth hair. They are approximately 30cm in height and weigh about 5-7kg. Working Patterdales usually have their tails docked to prevent tail injury, whereas pet Patterdales do not. Docking must be done by a vet before 5 days old.
The Patterdale terrier is not a registered Kennel Club breed and so Patterdales bred in the UK won’t come with KC papers. However, a ‘pure bred’ (if there is such thing!) is often referred to as a Nutall – the name of the man who originally bred them. They are often referred to as ‘Fell Terriers’.
The temperament of a Patterdale terrier is lively and energetic and the will need several walks a day included extended hikes to keep them active and healthy. They are an intelligent breed and benefit from scent games and dog puzzles. They are great at small dog agility and learning tricks because they are eager to please.
Despite their high levels of energy, when it’s time to settle down at home Patterdales make wonderful companion dogs. A Patterdale is more likely to want to sit with you or on your lap than stay in his or her bed. They are good with children provided that they are socialised and trained well from puppies. It is possible to have a Patterdale terrier in a home with cats but it is better to bring them up together from puppy and kitten as this means that they would be more likely to get along.
A Patterdale terrier is a cute looking small dog and perfect for an active family who have a lot of time to spend with the dog outdoors and a training minded household. If you decide to get a Patterdale, give him or her the dedication that he needs and you will be rewarded with unconditional love!
