Patterdale Terrier

Hailing from northern England, the Patterdale Terrier is a descendant of the smooth-coated Fell Terrier, which was originally bred to protect sheep from vermin. Fell Terriers were also known for their tenacity and ability to flush quarries, both of which were passed down to the Patterdale Terrier. Today, Patterdales have demonstrated their versatility in agility and racing. Their tough, resilient nature, inherited from their ancestors, has made them adaptable to various roles.

Although Patterdale Terriers make great companions, they’re better suited for more experienced dog owners. Their feisty nature requires a dedicated owner who can provide suitable outlets for their instincts or ample opportunities for chasing and digging. This means a secure yard and plenty of outdoor space are must-haves for these hard-working pups.

While walks and playtime are fun, Patterdales crave activities that allow them to chase, dig, and run. Think treasure hunts, obstacle courses, and even a little controlled chaos. Be the ringmaster of their circus, providing excitement and rewards. But remember, even the wildest clowns need downtime. Too much stimulation, and they'll be bouncing off the walls all night!

Patterdales can adapt to various living situations, but they're happiest in quieter suburban or rural homes where they can dig, climb, and jump outside to their heart’s content. These pups are known escape artists, so a fenced-in yard is a must when letting them outside to roam and explore. They can bark to alert, which is important to keep in mind if you have close neighbors in apartment buildings or townhomes.

Grooming your Patterdale Terrier depends on its coat type. Wire-coated Patterdales benefit from hand stripping, a technique that removes dead hair and maintains their coat's texture. Meanwhile, Smooth-coated Patterdales require less intensive grooming, with occasional brushing sufficient to maintain skin health.

Patterdale Terriers love a good challenge. When it comes to training, the more creative you get, the more they'll love it. Pro tip: Use their natural instincts to your advantage by incorporating scent-based and tug-of-war games. Positive reinforcement is your secret weapon. With patience and creativity, you'll have your Patterdale mastering new tricks in no time.

​​Patterdale Terriers are little pups with a lot of attitude. They have a low tolerance for chaos, so homes with no children or older children are best. If you're an experienced dog owner who can spend plenty of time outdoors and handle a feisty personality, a Patterdale is the perfect challenge. Just remember, they're not fans of strangers (furry or human).

The cost of a Patterdale Terrier from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.