Patterdale Terrier
Description
A Patterdale Terrier is what used to be called a Black and Tan or a “Fell” Terrier. Named for a small village south of Ullswater just east of Helvellyn. Modern Patterdale Terriers are mainly smooth coated black fell terriers, but can have broken or rough coats, and come in black, red, black and tan or chocolate…and rarely blue, and blue and tan with a gray colored nose. A working dog he is around 12 in. tall at the withers and weighs around 10 to 13 lbs. The Patterdale was used to chase down fox in the U.K. and Groundhogs in the U.S. On occasion if the dog was on the larger side they would be used to chase down badger, and raccoon.
Temperament
A very high energy, friendly, confident, intelligent, curious, and vocal dog with a strong prey drive…a total working dog the Patterdale is not going to be appreciated or welcome in a house with cats or other small fur bearing pets such as hamsters, rabbits, gerbils, or anything else resembling prey reside. This is a dog for the responsible owner that has work that needs to be done. Not exactly the stereotype house pet or lap dog. They need a great deal of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy, healthy, and non destructive.
Grooming/Exercise
Very little grooming is required with the Patterdale; however, the do need a great deal of exercise as they are a small game hunting dog, and if left without something to do they may develop some bad habits. The Patterdale isn’t going to do well in an apartment there just wouldn’t be the room they need. This dog is happiest when it is doing what it was bred to do. Ideal living situation in on a farm riding it of vermin.
Health
Life Expectancy is rougly 11 to 13 years.
Possible Issues
Currently there are no serious health concerns for this breed.
