Patterdale Terrier
Description
The Patterdale Terrier hails from the rugged hills of northern England, bred by farmers and shepherds to keep foxes away from their flocks. This compact breed, weighing between 11 and 14 pounds, is built for endurance and agility, with a fearless attitude that belies its size. Their short coats come in a variety of colors including black, red, liver, and grizzle, often marked with white patches. Known for their tenacity, these terriers excel at digging and chasing, traits that made them excellent hunters in the Lake District. They bond closely with their families and can be quite affectionate, but their strong prey drive means they may not mix well with smaller pets. Despite their boldness, they tend to be relatively quiet unless alerting you to strangers.
Grooming
Patterdale Terriers have three coat types: smooth, broken, and rough, all short but varying in texture. Their shedding is low because dead hair tends to hold in the coat, so regular removal is key. At home, card the coat weekly with a light slicker brush to gently lift loose hairs without damaging the texture. Professional handstripping every 8 to 12 weeks keeps the coat’s natural roughness and vibrant color intact, especially important for the black and tan or grizzle patterns. White markings may show dirt easily, so spot cleaning helps maintain brightness. Key grooming tips: - Card weekly to remove dead hair - Use a gentle slicker brush - Handstrip professionally every 2–3 months - Spot clean white areas as needed - Check ears and trim nails regularly Pro tip: Handstripping not only preserves coat texture but also reduces the risk of matting, which can be a problem with broken and rough coats.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
Patterdale Terriers need about 55 minutes of exercise daily, ideally in one solid session to satisfy their active minds and bodies. They thrive on varied walks that include opportunities to sniff, explore, and dig safely. A single, well-structured outing helps burn off their natural drive to chase and hunt. Example routine: Start with a brisk 10-minute warm-up on leash to settle their excitement. Then, allow 35 minutes of off-leash exploration in a secure area where they can dig and follow scents. Finish with a 10-minute cool-down walk back home to calm them down before settling indoors.
Boarding
For boarding, a 24 to 30-inch crate suits the Patterdale Terrier’s compact frame comfortably, giving them enough room to stand and turn around. These terriers are lively and curious, so their day should include two active play sessions combined with scent and brain games to keep them mentally sharp. Avoid small-animal toys since their strong prey drive can cause frustration or stress. Secure fencing is a must to prevent escapes during outdoor time. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the dog feel safe and reduce anxiety. Playstyle is energetic but focused; they enjoy challenges that tap into their hunting instincts without overwhelming them. Consistent interaction and enrichment make boarding a positive experience for these spirited terriers.