Origins
Where does it come from?
The Patterdale terrier takes its name from the village of Patterdale, in the Lake District, in north-west England. It descends from working terriers used by farmers and hunting packs in the region to flush out foxes and badgers in rocky terrain. Long selected solely for its abilities, without a morphological standard, it was recognised by the American United Kennel Club in 1995. It is not recognised by the FCI or the British Kennel Club.
Appearance
What does it look like?
It is a small compact and muscular terrier, about 25 to 38 cm for 5 to 8 kg. Its narrow and flexible chest allows it to pass through burrows. The head is powerful, the ears button-shaped, folded forward. The coat can be smooth, rough or broken. The most common coats are black, chocolate, red or black and tan, sometimes with a little white on the chest.
Temperament
Temperament and personality
Brave, stubborn and very energetic, the Patterdale terrier has a hunter's temperament. With its family, it is affectionate and playful, but it can be intolerant of other dogs and relentlessly chase cats and small animals.
Living together
Living with children and animals
He needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation every day. Without sufficient activity, he digs, barks and tries to escape. He is better suited to a house with a well-fenced garden than to an apartment.
Training
Training and socialization
Intelligent but stubborn, he requires firm, consistent and positive training, with short and varied sessions. Recall remains tricky in the presence of game. Early socialization with other dogs is essential.
Budget
Patterdale Terrier price & budget
The Patterdale terrier is mainly bred in the United Kingdom and remains rare in France. Prices vary depending on whether the parents are working or companion dogs.
View cost breakdownHealth
Health at a glance
Selected for work, the Patterdale terrier is a robust breed, with few known hereditary diseases. Injuries related to its fearlessness are more common than illnesses.
Prevention & watch pointsDid you know?
Anecdotes and popularity
On the farms of the Lake District, terriers had to follow hunters on foot over long distances in the hills before working underground, which explains the breed's exceptional endurance.
