Originating in the north of England as all terriers have, the Patterdale terrier is common to Great Britain's Lake District and within Yorkshire. Named after a village in Cumbria, Patterdales were known as rat, fox and rabbit hunters. Bred for its unfailing ability to work rather than for its appearance, this breed first came to the United States back in 1978. These dogs were quickly put to work as hunters for fur from woodchuck, fox, raccoon and badger.
The Patterdale terrier weighs in at between 11 and 13 pounds, with a height of 12 inches. Characterized by a powerful head and strong jowl and muzzle, this breed features squarely set, wide-spread eyes and a clean, muscular neck. It has strong hindquarters with a powerful tail and smooth coat. They typically have black, red, black and tan, or bronze coloring, either with solid or white markings on the chest and sometimes the feet.
Personality
Less yappy than other types of terriers, Patterdales are laid back and cuddly, although one should not discount their determination and toughness when the situation warrants. Great as a watchdog or hunting companion, this breed is robust and independent, boasting function over anything else. With its persistence and perseverance, a Patterdale terrier is great at digging to find what it wants when on the hunt. This breed is not best for the average pet owner, as this breed is difficult to obedience train.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 11 - 13 years |
| Nicknames: | Black Fell terrier |
Patterdale Terrier Build Information
The Patterdale terrier weighs in at between 11 and 13 pounds, with a height of 12 inches. Characterized by a powerful head and strong jowl and muzzle, this breed features squarely set, wide-spread eyes and a clean, muscular neck. It has strong hindquarters with a powerful tail and smooth coat. They typically have black, red, black and tan, or bronze coloring, either with solid or white markings on the chest and sometimes the feet.
| Size: | Small |
Behaviour and Personality
Less yappy than other types of terriers, Patterdales are laid back and cuddly, although one should not discount their determination and toughness when the situation warrants. Great as a watchdog or hunting companion, this breed is robust and independent, boasting function over anything else. With its persistence and perseverance, a Patterdale terrier is great at digging to find what it wants when on the hunt. This breed is not best for the average pet owner, as this breed is difficult to obedience train.
| Activity Level: | Very active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly |
Appearance
Not much grooming is required aside from the occasional bath and comb. A good brushing occasionally is all that is required, unless it sheds a lot more than usual, in which case brush as needed. Nails may need to be clipped, although you don't want to cut them down too far, as they are needed for hunting and digging.
| Shedding: | Little |
| Grooming: | Low maintenance |
Patterdale Terrier Common Health Conditions
Because this breed is an energetic one, with dogs that like to chase things and stick their heads into burrows. Because they often get debris stuck in their eyes from running about and being curious, this can lead to conjunctivitis, an infection of the eye. Other than that, the breed experiences no major health problems.
Patterdale Terrier Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Patterdales don't do well in apartments and other close quarters. They thrive on being active and running around, so a large home with a large yard is ideal. It does behave well indoors if it gets an adequate does of activity outside during the day. This dog may start fights with other terriers if left in close proximity and if he becomes bored. The Patterdale terrier is also known as the Black Fell terrier. Patterdale terriers typically live between 11 and 13 years, sometimes longer is they are treated well and shielded from intense hunting.
| Training: | Hard to train |