Patterdale Terrier: Information, Behavior, Care, and More!

Height:	10-15 inches
Weight:	12 – 15 pounds
Lifespan:	11-14 years
Colors:	Black, red, and brown
For:	House with a yard for active families
Temperament:	Active, energetic, loyal, independent, stubborn affectionate, intelligent

Patterdale Terriers, small working dogs, were born in Northern England. They were named after Patterdale, a small Cumbrian village, which lies in the east part of the Lake District. Joe Bowman, a Patterdale breeder, crossed a black-and-tan Fell Terrier and a blue/black Border Terrier to create the first Patterdale Terrier in the 1920s.

Patterdales are stocky, small dogs with triangular ears and long tails. They can have short, rough, or smooth coats. Some may also have facial hair for a mustache, beard, or eyebrows. Patterdale Terriers can be black or brown, and they can also come in bicolor or pied.

Patterdale Terrier Puppy — Before You Buy

Patterdale Terriers are full of energy! They live a long life expectancy and are generally healthy dogs. They can be socialized with other dogs, but they are stubborn and can be difficult to train.

How much are Patterdale Terrier puppies?

Patterdales don’t appear to be a common breed of terrier in North America. They are more commonly found in the U.K., where they can be purchased for as low as PS550 and as high in North America at $1,500 and $2,500.

You should only consider reputable breeders and not support backyard or puppy mill businesses.

These are some tips to help you find a Patterdale Terrier Breeder.

• Visit the breeder: It is a good idea to go see the breeder in person. You can also check out how clean and tidy the dog’s living areas are and see how happy and healthy the dogs are. Are the living spaces clean and tidy? Is there a strong relationship between the breeder and their dogs? Ask for a virtual tour and chat if you are unable to visit the breeder.
• Ask about the dog’s medical history. Dog breeders who are honest and open about their dogs’ medical history are good. Ask for the medical certificates. Breeders will be happy to show you the dog’s medical history.
• Meet the parents: If you visit the breeder in person, this can be possible. However, if you are unable to make it, you can request to see the puppies’ parents via video. You can see the parents’ faces and temperaments. This can allow you to get a glimpse of what your puppy will look like.
• Ask lots of questions: It is important to feel at ease asking as many questions and as many questions as possible. Reputable breeders won’t hesitate to answer your questions. Avoid any breeder who refuses to answer all your questions about their puppies.

A new puppy will come with some additional expenses.

These are the items new puppy owners will need to know:

• Collared, leash, and harness
• Training treats
• Water and food bowls
• Puppy food
• Toys for cuddling, chewing, and playing
• Bedding and crate
• Puppy training pads

You can also expect additional costs throughout the dog’s lifetime:

• Classes for obedience
• Grooming (or how to do it yourself).
• Spaying or neutering your dog
• Annual veterinarian appointments
• Microchipping
• Vaccinations

Adopting a puppy or dog is also an option. Adopting a dog or puppy can be a rewarding experience. Most adoption centers will waive or lower the fees for senior dogs or special needs dogs. However, adoption fees can run from $300 to $800.

Three Little-Known Facts about the Patterdale Terrier

1. The Patterdale Terrier has not been recognized by the American Kennel Club.

They are purebred, but they are not recognized by the United Kennel Club. There are still a few clubs that specialize in them, such as the Patterdale Terrier Club of America.

2. A Patterdale Terrier is also known as a Fell Terrier.

Fell Terrier is a name for a group of working terriers from Northern England. They are not a breed. Fell Terriers can be found in both the Patterdale Terrier and the Lakeland Terrier.

3. The Patterdale Terrier was originally bred to hunt foxes.

These dogs are tough, energetic, and agile enough to chase foxes and small enough that they can enter burrows.

Temperament and Intelligence of the Patterdale Terrier

Patterdale Terriers are typical terriers. They are stubborn, feisty, and loyal dogs. They are affectionate, loving dogs that are friendly with all people.

Patterdales have large personalities and are intelligent. They are protective and can be very affectionate. Because of their energy, they don’t make great apartment dogs and would do better in a home with a fully fenced yard or on a farm.

Are these dogs good for families?

Patterdale Terriers make great companions for children and are great with them. They can be a bit rambunctious so they are better suited for older children. Your children should learn to treat their dogs and any other dogs with respect.

Is this breed compatible with other pets?

Although they can get along with other dogs quite well, Patterdale Terriers are more inclined to pursue smaller animals due to their high prey drive. They would be most at home in homes with no cats, birds, rabbits, or small rodents such as hamsters.

You Need to Be a Patterdale Terrier Owner

Food & Diet Requirements

Patterdales need high-quality dog food designed for their age, weight, and activity level. To help determine how much food your terrier needs each day, you can refer to the instructions on the bag. However, you can always consult your vet if in doubt. This breed is prone to obesity so make sure your dog gets the right amount of food every day.

Exercise

It is vital to exercise your Patterdale Terrier! They are energetic dogs and need to be exercised, played with, and walked a lot. Two long walks per day are the best for them. However, they can chase everything that comes in their path so keep them leashed while out and about. Patterdales can become destructive and bored if they aren’t getting enough exercise.

Image Credit: Vanitytheone, Shutterstock

Training

Patterdales can be both easy to train and hardy. They are intelligent and dedicated. They love to be involved in activities so the training should go well. They are stubborn, like all terriers, and can be easily distracted. Therefore, it is important to keep the training sessions fun and short. Patterdale needs positive reinforcement and socialization early in their life.

Grooming

Patterdales are easy to groom. They only need to be brushed once a week. Although they rarely require a bath, it is a good idea to give them shampoo.

You should trim the nails of your Patterdale every three to four weeks. Also, you should brush your teeth at least twice a week. Their ears should be cleaned about once per week.

Health and Conditions

Patterdale Terriers can be strong, sturdy dogs with few health issues. You’ll be able to keep your pet healthy for many years if you take him to the vet every year for checks.

Male vs. Male vs.

There are no discernible differences between male and female Patterdales. Although the males may be slightly heavier and larger than the females in some cases, it is not a common occurrence with most dog breeds. Usually, they are roughly the same size.

Other than that, there are no differences between dogs. Spaying a female requires more time and money than neutering a male.

It is thought that males are more affectionate and easier to train than their female counterparts. However, temperament is a matter of personal preference. The true factor that determines a dog’s behavior and personality is how they are socialized, trained, and treated throughout their lives will be their upbringing.

Last Thoughts

You must first find a good breeder when you begin looking for these dogs. You can check social media but if you don’t find one near you, you might consider having your puppy flown to you.

Adoption is also an option. A Patterdale would make a great pet, especially considering their rarity. But you never know what might happen! You might also consider rescues that specialize in this breed, such as Patterdale Terrier Rescue, based in Surrey, England. They can help you rehome your pet.

Patterdales may not be for everyone. Patterdales are not for everyone. They can be energetic and go on long runs or hikes with you, and they will love to cuddle you at the end.