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Patterdale Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Patterdale Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank227
Reviews3
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Patterdale Terrier dog profile picture
OriginEngland flagEngland
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Patterdale Terrier known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Black Fell Terrier
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Patterdale Terrier? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Photo Gallery of the Patterdale Terrier Breed

Patterdale Terrier Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Patterdale Terrier? Learn how big the Patterdale Terrier breed typically grows.
Small
Weight Statistics
How much does a Patterdale Terrier weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Patterdale Terrier breed.
11-13 pounds (5-6 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Patterdale Terrier?
12 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Patterdale Terrier? Patterdale Terrier height:
12-15 inches
Average Height
What is the average height of a Patterdale Terrier?
13.5 inches

Patterdale Terrier Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Patterdale Terrier puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Patterdale Terrier costs.
$500-$700
If you choose to purchase the Patterdale Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Patterdale Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Patterdale Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Patterdale Terrier? How many Patterdale Terrier are there in the world?
Average: The Patterdale Terrier is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Patterdale Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Patterdale Terrier? Discover the Patterdale Terrier's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Patterdale Terrier ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Patterdale Terrier? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's trainability and response to training methods.
Patterdale Terrier dogs are hard to train. They don't really get the association between commands and actions. If you want them to obey, you should be very consistent and patient while teaching.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Patterdale Terrier as a watchdog? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's alertness and guarding instincts.
Patterdale Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Patterdale Terrier protective of its territory? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's guarding instincts and behavior.
Patterdale Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Patterdale Terrier can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Patterdale Terrier will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Patterdale Terrier Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Patterdale Terrier have? Learn about characteristic Patterdale Terrier temperament and behavior traits.
EnergeticIntelligentConfidentFriendlyInquisitiveBold
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Patterdale Terrier sensitivity:
Sensitive: Patterdale Terrier dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Patterdale Terrier a good family dog?
Average to High: Patterdale Terrier dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Black Fell Terrier need? Patterdale Terrier social needs:
Patterdale Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Patterdale Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Patterdale Terrier roam?
Patterdale Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Patterdale Terrier have high prey drive?
Patterdale Terrier dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Patterdale Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Patterdale Terrier bark a lot? Learn about typical Patterdale Terrier vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average: The Patterdale Terrier barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Patterdale Terrier? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Patterdale Terrier breed.
Average: Patterdale Terriers, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Patterdale Terrier live in an apartment? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's suitability for apartment living.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Patterdale Terrier breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Patterdale Terrier indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Patterdale Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Patterdale Terrier to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's flexibility to new situations.
Patterdale Terrier dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Patterdale Terrier be left alone? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Patterdale Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Patterdale Terrier biting potential? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Patterdale Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Patterdale Terrier mouthy? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's tendency to use mouth during play.
Patterdale Terrier dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Patterdale Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Patterdale Terrier bite? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Patterdale Terrier bite force: Weak. The Patterdale Terrier bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Patterdale Terrier measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Patterdale Terrier may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Patterdale Terrier being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Patterdale Terrier bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Patterdale Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Patterdale Terrier can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Patterdale Terrier Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Patterdale Terrier live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Patterdale Terrier breed.
11-13 years
The average lifespan of Patterdale Terrier: 12 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Patterdale Terrier handle different weather? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Patterdale Terrier? Discover typical conditions affecting the Patterdale Terrier breed.
Patterdale Terriers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Patterdale Terrier need vet visits? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's veterinary care requirements.
Frequent
The Patterdale Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Patterdale Terrier breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Patterdale Terrier breed? Most common health risks of Patterdale Terrier:
Conjunctivitis

Patterdale Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Patterdale Terrier? Understand daily activity needs of the Patterdale Terrier breed.
Patterdale Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Patterdale Terrier need? How much exercise do Patterdale Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Patterdale Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Patterdale Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Patterdale Terrier breed need?
Patterdale Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Patterdale Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Patterdale Terrier prone to weight gain? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's obesity risks.
Low: The Patterdale Terrier has good luck with genetics. This breed doesn't need to worry about obesity. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Patterdale Terrier weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Patterdale Terrier need daily? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's feeding requirements.
1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Patterdale Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Patterdale Terrier hypoallergenic? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Patterdale Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Patterdale Terrier come in? Discover all possible Patterdale Terrier color variations.
BlackBrown Golden
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Patterdale Terrier need? Learn about Patterdale Terrier coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Patterdale Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Patterdale Terrier is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Patterdale Terrier drool a lot? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's drooling habits.
The Patterdale Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Patterdale Terrier could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Patterdale Terrier.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Patterdale Terrier smell bad? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Patterdale Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Patterdale Terrier have? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's fur characteristics.
DenseRoughSmooth
Bathing Needs
How often does a Patterdale Terrier need baths? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Patterdale Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Black Fell Terrier? Do Patterdale Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Patterdale Terrier dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Patterdale Terrier Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Patterdale Terrier good with children? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's behavior around kids of different ages.
Patterdale Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Patterdale Terrier get along with other pets? Discover the Patterdale Terrier's compatibility with other animals.
Patterdale Terrier dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Patterdale Terrier temperament with other people:
Patterdale Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Patterdale Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Patterdale Terrier breed live with a cat?
Patterdale Terrier dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Patterdale Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Patterdale Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Patterdale Terrier dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Patterdale Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Patterdale Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
No
Patterdale Terrier dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.
Office Friendly
Are Patterdale Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Patterdale Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Patterdale Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Patterdale Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Black Fell Terrier temperament with senior people? Are Patterdale Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Patterdale Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.

Patterdale Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Patterdale Terrier be a service dog? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Patterdale Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Patterdale Terrier good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Patterdale Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Patterdale Terrier good at detection work? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Patterdale Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Patterdale Terrier do search and rescue? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Patterdale Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Patterdale Terrier good on boats? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Patterdale Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Patterdale Terrier pull carts? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Patterdale Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Patterdale Terrier used in military service? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Patterdale Terrier Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Patterdale Terrier usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
2-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Patterdale Terrier pregnant? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Patterdale Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Patterdale Terrier have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Patterdale Terrier Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Patterdale Terrier in? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Patterdale Terrier in? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Patterdale Terrier? Learn about the Patterdale Terrier's official recognition.
American Canine RegistryAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Continental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubUnited Kennel ClubAmerican Rare Breed Association

Patterdale Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Patterdale Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Patterdale Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Obesity Tendency: Low: The Patterdale Terrier has good luck with genetics.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Patterdale Terrier dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Patterdale Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Patterdale Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.
Cons
  • Training Difficulty: Patterdale Terrier dogs are hard to train.
  • Health Concerns: Patterdale Terriers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Patterdale Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Patterdale Terrier breed.
  • Office Friendly: Patterdale Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Patterdale Terrier dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.

Patterdale Terrier History

The Patterdale Terrier is originated from a village situated in the north of England, named Patterdale. The breed is closely related to the Fell Terrier, a different type of terrier that was developed in a nearby village. According to the natural surroundings and the climate conditions in that area, both of these breeds, the Patterdale and also the Fell, were bred to be very tolerating and well-adjusting to extreme weather conditions. Albeit, some experts believe that the Patterdale Terrier is descended mainly from the smooth, black-coated Fell Terriers.

A more common theory suggests that a breeder named Joe Bowman of Ullswater Hunt is credited with creating the breed through careful and well-planned line breeding. During his breeding process, he crossed blue and black coated Border Terriers with black and tan Lakeland Terriers to develop the first litter of Patterdale Terriers. It was believed for a long time, that he was the only breeder, but other sources indicate that some other breeders also contributed to his successes.

The Patterdale Terrier was originally bred to hunt foxes, rats and to control the various vermin populations that were predatory on sheep. Thanks to the dogs’ small bodies, they were able to squeeze into narrow tunnels and burrows to flush out the game. They have fearless and lively personalities because the breed was bred to bolt the quarry out of the den or to dispatch it if it chose to fight. In addition to obedience training, Patterdale Terriers are also excelling in other hunting and sporting activities too. In recent years, the breed has begun to be the best in Flyball and other areas of dog agility. One Patterdale Terrier named Chip won first the British, then the European Flyball Championship in 2012.

In 1978, the first Patterdale Terrier was brought to the United States of America to gain more popularity, but the breed remained more well-known in its homeland, in England. However, it seems that the dogs are gaining more attention, all thanks to their exceptional qualities both as working dogs and family pets. Not being an ancient breed, the UKC (United Kennel Club) recognized the breed in 1995. Even though the breed has remarkable hunting and working skills, the AKC (American Kennel Club) did not recognize them yet, because the dogs’ appearance still seems too unpredictable in comparison to other purebreds.

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Patterdale Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Faye

    Mar 4, 2023, 6:45:03 PM:

    We have had 3, 1 from pup and 2 rescues. They are very intelligent, loving & loyal.Need lots of physical exercise & mental stimulation, clear rules & they are the most amazing dogs

  • Matt Smith

    Jun 26, 2021, 10:14:19 PM:

    Be warned.. they are one of the most stubborn dogs you can train and their prey drive means you may lose them down a fox or rabbit hole if you let them off the lead. If you are not hunting with this dog I wouldn't get it.

  • Jen Everlark

    May 22, 2020, 9:04:53 AM:

    Absolutely love my Patterdale! He’s moderately bitey but it’s easy to contain! Also, these dogs are really energetic and tend to pull a lot on walks. Good family pets but do have favourites, who they stick to.