What to Know Before Getting a Patterdale Terrier: 25 Essential Questions Answered
Thinking about getting a Patterdale Terrier? Then let’s be honest with each other from the start.
These little dogs are pure fire — bold, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining. But they are absolutely not couch potatoes.
If you want a small pup that acts like a big dog (in all the best and most challenging ways), a Patterdale might be your perfect match.
Below, you’ll get the honest truth — no fluff — on their energy, training, family fit, health, grooming, and cost. By the end, you’ll know whether this breed belongs in your life.
The Patterdale at a Glance
First, the quick numbers. Don’t let the small frame fool you — there’s a working terrier packed inside.
Here’s the thing to remember: they were bred to hunt, and that drive is still very much alive.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Energy Level | |
| Affection | |
| Trainability | |
| Grooming Needs | |
| Apartment Fit |
Let’s start with the big one — their energy.
Energetic and Affectionate — But Not Low-Maintenance
Patterdales are small enough to pick up and travel with. But their engines run hot.
They need daily exercise — ideally at least an hour of walks, plus time to run or play in a yard or open space.
Here’s the kicker: a bored Patterdale will find their own entertainment.
And you probably won’t like what they come up with.
“Training a Patterdale is like negotiating with a toddler who’s had too much sugar.”
Apartment Living? Think Twice
Yes, they’re small. But they’re also vocal and active.
Unless you can offer tons of physical and mental stimulation — and your neighbors are saints — city apartment life can be a struggle.
A house with a fenced yard is a much better setup.
So what about being home alone? This is where many owners get caught off guard.
Quick poll
How much time would your Patterdale spend home alone?
Smart, Stubborn, and Not Always Obedient
Patterdales are very smart — which is both a blessing and a curse.
They understand commands quickly. They just don’t always feel like following them.
Here’s where it gets interesting: consistency beats brute force every time with this breed.
The Patterdale training playbook
- Start earlyGood habits set in puppyhood are far easier than fixing them later.
- Keep it short and funBrief, upbeat sessions hold their attention better than long drills.
- Stay positive and consistentReward what you want; don’t confuse them with mixed signals.
- Tackle barking from day oneThey’re naturally vocal — early boundaries make a huge difference.
Now, how do they do with kids and other pets?
Great With Family — If Raised Right
Patterdales are loyal, loving, and genuinely great with kids — when both sides learn to interact safely.
Socialization is everything with this breed.
Done right, they can live happily with other dogs. Smaller pets, though? That’s a different story.
Kids
GreatPlayful and affectionate when raised with respectful handling on both sides.
Other dogs
With careUsually fine with proper early socialization.
Cats
TrickyPossible if raised together, but the prey drive is real.
Small pets
RiskyHamsters and similar critters trigger strong terrier instincts.
Health and Grooming
Good news: Patterdales are generally a healthy, hardy breed with an 11–14 year lifespan.
But like any dog, they’re prone to a few issues worth watching.
- Hip dysplasia — a joint concern common in many active breeds.
- Thyroid problems — worth flagging at routine vet visits.
- Dry skin — usually manageable with good diet and grooming.
Regular vet checkups and a responsible breeder (or rescue) go a long way here.
Grooming, on the other hand, is refreshingly simple.
- Brush regularly to manage moderate shedding
- Bathe only when they’re actually dirty
- Shave a double-coated Patterdale
- Expect a truly hypoallergenic dog
What It Costs — And Where to Get One
Ready for the money talk? Let’s reveal it.
Can you guess?
What does a Patterdale from a reputable breeder cost?
Reputable Breeder
Pros
- Known health history
- Meet the parents
- Early socialization
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- May involve a waitlist
Rescue / Shelter
Pros
- Lower cost
- Gives a dog a second chance
- Often already vetted
Cons
- Less known history
- Availability varies
Frequently Asked Questions
They can be — but only if you’re ready for a high-energy, strong-willed dog. First-timers who are active and committed to consistent training tend to do well. If you want an easy, laid-back starter dog, this isn’t it.
Yes. They’re naturally vocal, so barking is something to work on from day one with positive, consistent training.
Not long, ideally. They’re very people-oriented and can develop separation anxiety. A few hours is manageable; full workdays alone, day after day, often leads to trouble.
Very — when raised right. Teach kids to interact respectfully and socialize the dog early, and they make loyal, playful family companions.
It’s tricky. They may coexist with cats if raised together, but their prey drive makes small pets like hamsters a real risk.
No. They shed moderately and are not a good fit for allergy sufferers.
Keeping up with their energy and stubborn streak. Give them enough exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training, and most challenges melt away.
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.