The Patterdale Terrier is an English breed developed to guard flocks. It is a type of fell terrier which was first popularized in the mid 20th century. The breed was used as predator control in the hills of north England where sheep farming dominates. Its quarry ranges from fox to groundhogs to raccoons and badgers.
The Patterdale Terrier stands 10 to 15 inches tall and weighs 10 to 24 pounds. The coat of the breed is coarse and short, and can be black, red, chocolate, or black and tan.
The breed can make an excellent pet due to its friendliness, small size, and intelligence. It should not be mistaken for a lap dog; due to its working background it is a very energetic breed. The Patterdale Terrier should be properly trained and socialized at an early age. It needs consistent exercise in order to maintain its temperament. The breed can tend to be quite vocal. If not trained or exercised regularly, it may bark excessively or exhibit other various destructive behavior patterns.
The Patterdale Terrier is generally healthy and can live up to 15 years.