For those who want to adopt a Patterdale terrier for a companion, there are only two necessary precautions. One, you must learn how to keep up with this breed’s energetic disposition in order to give it the proper care it needs.
Two, you must learn to accept that it is one of the toughest terriers there is therefore never be shocked if it displays its ferocity and fearlessness in its plight with other mammals such as foxes.
The Patterdale grew up in the adversity and barrenness of Northern England therefore it developed an innate toughness that gave it the title tough as nails. Many people who loves to hunt and want reliable companion opt to have a Patterdale terrier because of these unique traits it possesses. As a hunter, it never stops until it catches the game and as a companion, it is loyal, obedient and eager to please.
While other terrier breeds flourished under the care of the kennel clubs, the Patterdale remained isolated in the remote villages of Northern England. Until its discovery in the 1950’s, the Patterdale served as hunting aids and pets to the villagers. There they hunted for vermin such as rodents and foxes that damage the stocks and crops.
The rocky terrain of the north became the perfect place for the vermin to hide from the wrath of farmers. They hid inside deep holes and under the rocks so that no humans can possibly get in to. With the Patterdale terrier, however, no hole is ever deep and no rock is ever unreachable as it chase out and kills the little pests that wrecks its master’s livelihood.
Presently, the Patterdale has reached different parts of the world and many have regarded it more as a pet than a working dog. Its tiny size and love for a cuddle is often misinterpreted as being a toy dog. The Patterdale has never been and never will be a toy dog, however, for the terrier blood runs through its veins no matter where it has been today.
As a real terrier, the Patterdale is active, playful and a ferocious hunter outside but inside the home it is placid, tame and less of a yapper. It is also friendly among people even little children. It is naturally stubborn so obedience training can be difficult sometimes.
It is said that this breed came from the Ferell breed or the then black-and-tan terrier. This breed may come in three different types of coats and they are: smooth, rough and broken. The smooth type is very short, the rough one is long all over the body, the broken is long only in the head, ears and snout and all three coats are coarse.
Like most infinitely lively dogs, the Patterdale needs something to get busy with always. Without an activity to keep it occupied, it tends to get bored and will find other means of entertainment such as digging and nipping. Keep your Patterdale mentally and physically fit by taking it for daily walks and regular intense playtimes.
