HISTORY:
In Yorkshire and the lake districts of England, where the Patterdale Terrier was developed, it is to this day referred to as a "type" of terrier rather than a distinct breed. Adhering to the philosophy of breeding working stock to working stock, the Patterdale's fanciers believe only in producing a true working terrier.
The Patterdale is a working terrier, bred originally to go to ground and bolt or kill vermin. This requires a small, active, game terrier, and must be judged as such.
The Patterdale Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club on January 1, 1995.
GENERAL APPEARANCE & CHARACTERISTICS:
A sturdy, tough, active, little terrier. As a working terrier, it has to be capable of squeezing through very small passages underground to follow its quarry. A big terrier can cut off its own air supply. Therefore, its chest is not too big.
The dog presents a compact, balanced image, with straight legs.
Scars resulting from wounds received while working are considered honorable and are not to be penalized.
HEAD AND SKULL:
The head and muzzle are strong and powerful.
TEETH - A full complement of strong, white teeth meet in a level bite. Teeth broken, or incisors lost, while working are not to be penalized.
EARS - The moderate size ears fold to the side of the cheeks.
NECK:
The strong, muscular neck is of moderate length. A strong neck helps as much as a strong jaw in killing vermin.
BODY:
The body conveys an active appearance. The chest is not too big, capable of being spanned behind the shoulders by average-size hands. The strong, straight back is in proportion to the height. Not too long, not too short. Too short a back in proportion to the terrier's weight makes him awkward underground.
TAIL:
The tail is set high. Its length is in proportion to the body, usually about five to seven inches in length. The tail is sometimes the only thing by which to pull a terrier out when you have dug down to him.
COAT:
The coat may be smooth or broken coated. Smooth-coated dogs have a dense coat.
A good coat is important to protect against the wet underground and briars.
COLOR:
Acceptable colors include: Black, red; liver (with a red nose); grizzle, black and tan; bronze. Ninety-five percent of the breed will produce black-colored dogs, but the odd dog of all colors will come with white feet and chest. Some of the best ones are marked like this.
HEIGHT & WEIGHT:
Height range is from 11 to 15 inches.
Weight ranges from 10 to 17 pounds. The dogs weigh more than they look.
DISQUALIFICATIONS:
Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Viciousness or extreme shyness. Albinism.