Patterdale Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Patterdale Terrier is a compact, fearless working terrier from the fells of England's Lake District. It was bred to follow foxes into rocky dens to protect lambs, and it remains intensely driven and tenacious.

Origins and appearance

Developed in Cumbria from Fell and Lakeland-type terriers, the Patterdale is a working dog that has not been bred mostly for show. It is small, hard and muscular, with a broad chest, a strong head, small folded ears and a smooth, broken or rough coat in black, red, brown, bronze or grizzle. Many have a small white patch on the chest.

Temperament

Patterdales are confident, bold and energetic. They are very attached to their person and can be affectionate but intense. They have a strong prey drive and may be dog-reactive. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, they can become destructive, noisy or anxious. They are watchful and alert. They are generally better suited to experienced owners.

Exercise

They need two hours or more of vigorous activity daily, with running, tracking, agility and scent work. Free time off leash is unsafe except in secure areas. Mental tasks, such as puzzle toys and training, are equally important. A secure yard with high, buried fencing is necessary.

Training

They are smart and quick but headstrong. Use reward-based, consistent training with short, varied sessions. Early socialization and control of prey drive are essential. Teach a solid recall in secure areas and a reliable leave-it. See recall training guide. Quiet cues help manage barking. See why do dogs bark excessively.

Coat and grooming

The coat needs a weekly brush and occasional baths. See short coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, check ears and brush teeth. Shedding is moderate.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Primary lens luxation
• Allergies and skin conditions. See dog skin allergies
• Injuries from working, such as cuts and bites
• Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Living with a Patterdale Terrier

They suit active, experienced owners in homes with secure fences. They need a lot of attention. They are not ideal for homes with small pets, and many do not suit families with young children.

Behavior and daily management

A Patterdale needs a daily plan. Alternate exercise, training and puzzle tasks, and give it a job. Manage walks on a leash, with a harness, and supervise at all times around other animals. Provide a safe space to rest.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bold and busy. Begin socialization, handling and training right away, with a focus on calm behavior. Provide chew toys and a crate. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for training, secure fencing, durable toys and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Patterdales tolerate most weather but need warmth after wet outings and shade in heat. They travel well when exercised first.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, trusting recall near wildlife, mixing with small pets and choosing the breed for looks alone. Many are surrendered because owners underestimate them.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about the dog's working background, temperament with other animals, patella and eye checks and what exercise the dog currently gets.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Patterdale suits experienced, active owners who want a tough, intense working terrier and can provide vast exercise. It may not suit first-time owners, families with toddlers or homes with cats. For a calmer terrier, see the Border Terrier.

The takeaway

Patterdales are fearless, driven and demanding, and they need experienced owners, intense exercise and secure fencing.