A small, rough-coated, black dog with a small, white patch on the chest and floppy triangular ears, sits patiently in a grassy open space.

Patterdale Terrier

These independent and loving dogs make great family pets thanks to their loyalty and loving nature. Whether you’re thinking of borrowing one or getting your own, we’ve pulled together lots of fun and interesting facts you should know about the breed, courtesy of the Patterdale Terrier owners in our community.

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A collage of images of Patterdale Terriers. They all have slightly scruffy looking fur, floppy ears and well proportioned faces. They range in colour from black to white and tan

What is a Patterdale Terrier?

The Patterdale Terrier is an English breed of dog, and is a culmination of Terrier breeds over the centuries. They were originally used for hunting in the Lake District and have become popular family dogs over the years thanks to their friendly and loyal nature.

How much exercise does a Patterdale Terrier need?

A small, black, well-proportioned dog is standing on a trail with his tongue out

Being a Terrier, the Patterdale is high energy. Thanks to their high intelligence, they need the right amount of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. At least one hour of exercise a day is typical for these little dogs, but they’d happily take more.

“Lady Baeza can be very playful and loves her walks, but she also loves a snooze in her bed once she’s home.” - Matias, owner of Lady Baeza.

What is the temperament of a Patterdale Terrier?

The Patterdale is a confident and independent little dog who boasts a very loud bark for such a little dog. They cannot resist digging thanks to their history in hunting and flushing. Family environments suit them well and they’re exceptionally people-friendly.

“Zowie loves cuddles, belly rubs and watching the world go by from the windowsill. She is such an affectionate dog and everyone who meets her falls in love.” - Hazel, owner of Zowie.

Are Patterdale Terriers easy to train?

Edit is a small black dog with sweet brown eyes and floppy ears. She's lying on a colourful bedspread.

Patterdales are very intelligent, so combined with the fact that they love to please, they are highly trainable dogs. Their training should start at an early age and be consistent throughout their lives, but with the correct amount, you’ll be able to teach them all sorts.

“Smartie is very well behaved and responds well to training.” - Sasha, owner of Smartie.

That being said, here are a few funny quirks that some of our members’ Patterdale Terriers have:

Charlotte, owner of Pip

Pip’s favourite game is fetch, except he doesn’t bring it back and enjoys you wrestling him for it.

Beth, owner of Dolly

Dolly will always greet you with a bounce and a jump.

Janet, owner of Opey

Opey is part Patterdale, part Kangaroo.

Judi, owner of Lexi

Chasing bird shadows on the beach is great fun for Lexi.

Most common Patterdale Terrier names on BorrowMyDoggy:

  • Alfie
  • Poppy
  • Buddy
  • Daisy
  • Max
  • Bella
  • Ruby
  • Luna
  • Molly
  • Jack

Does your Patterdale Terrier pull on the lead? Follow this simple, quick and easy training tip to teach them to heal.

High paws to our lovely community for letting us share these facts about their Patterdale Terriers. Paws crossed you found them helpful :)

Looking for the pawfect Patterdale Terrier to join you on a walk? Or would you like your Patterdale Terrier to make a new friend? Why not sign up to BorrowMyDoggy today.


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