Patterdale Terrier, would like one but keep hearing good things about them and then bad things about them..??!

Question

Myself and my husband are looking into getting a dog, I do not want a big dog at all & not a tiny dog. We have been looking at the Patterdale's as they look and sound to us that the patterdale would fit nicely in our home. We have a big house, lovely back garden and we are surrounded by woods and other dogs in our street.

BUT one web site says that patterdale's will not get along with other dogs BUT another web site says they will. I know that it all depends how we bring the puppy up as we are planning on getting a puppy.
Also we are not sure if the patterdale likes children or young children? I say again, one web site says they do, another says they don't all depends on how you train them.

We would like to get a patterdale for a pet not a working dog, just as a pet. We will take it for walks, I say nearly everyday as I hear they don't like the cold (wether that's true I don't know), too play ball with to relax with and feel comfortable with.
Could someone please help me? Thank you..

Answer 1

I'm going to assume the websites you were on were something like "Dog Breed Info" or "Dogbiz" or other websites devoted to general breed descriptions. These websites are often incorrect. Instead, go to the Patterdale Terrier Club of America's website. These people devote their lives to Patterdales, so their info is more or less the bottom line.
http://www.ptca.00go.com/

Patterdales are terriers. Virtually all terriers are spitfires and will huff and puff with another strange dog. It's in their nature to be feisty towards other dogs, but it is something you can curb with socialization. Also, Patterdales are not recommended for households with young children, but, then again, I don't recommend most families with young children to own dogs. Have you ever seen a young child interacting with an animal? It's not very gentle. Again, nobody's fault. It's just the nature of the child to be rough.

Most dogs don't like the cold, but I'm sure Patterdales can cope with it very well. I can assure you that the dog's like of exercise will overshadow its dislike of the cold ;) Hope that helps you!

Answer 2

Patterdale Terrier Characteristics

Answer 3

I agree with everyone above. I will reinforce visiting the national breed websites. See if you can observe the parents of the puppies. This can be an indication of how their temperament will lean. I have had a lot of dealings with Jack Russell Terriers which are close in size and many other characteristics to Patterdales. If you do choose a terrier, you'll never have another dull moment. Make sure you exercise and entertain them or they will find something to keep busy. Also, beware. The leading cause of death for many terriers is being hit by a car. There is an interesting compatibility test for JRT's on this site. Much of it will probably apply to Patterdales as well. Good Luck!

Answer 4

http://www.ptca.00go.com/ This is the national breed club and you should be able to get accurate information as well as a list of responsible breeders to ask questions of from them.

My main concern would be, if you are not experienced dog owners, especially owners of terriers, whether a terrier, especially a working terrier breed like the Patterdale, would be a good choice for you. I hope you realize that this dog is going to dig. If you happen to be yard proud there might be better choices out there than a terrier breed.

And yes, many non-pack terriers such as Fox terriers and Patterdales do tend to be dog aggressive. Some individuals are fine with other dogs but you do have to be aware of the potential and work through training to make sure your dog thinks of you as his/her Alpha (leader) and will thus obey your command to ignore other dogs if dog aggression should ever become an issue.

Answer 5

The only problem that I see across the board with these, is perception.. Keep all paperwork stating breed specifics.. MANY people mistake them for pitts, and with the threat of/or reality of (I live in a city that has the laws in effect) breed specific laws, it may fall upon you to prove that it is not a pitt mix, but an actual breed in itself.. As for the dogs themselves.. I've never met an aggressive one.. (I've only been around 2, so that could be one reason)

They seem to be fairly intelligent and friendly.. So, I doubt there would be an issue unless you plan on not really training it.. (as for the not liking snow.. who knows.. probably has more to do with whether they are brought up around it.. if you have a treadmill train it to walk/run on that and you will be set in the winter.. )

And just for fun:
http://www.gotpetsonline.com/pictures-gallery/dog-pictures-breeders-puppies-rescue/patterdale-terrier-pictures-breeders-puppies-rescue/pictures/patterdale-terrier-0012.jpg

Answer 6

A responsible breeder should be able to address these issues for you. They are most willling to discuss the good and bad of their breed so you can make the right decision for yourself and for the puppy you are considering. Get to know the breeders dogs a little. While individual dogs vary, and environmental factors are much more important than genetic in behavior, it will give you somewhat of an idea of what to expect.

Answer 7

Hi, I understand that you are looking for some advice or resources to help fully train your dog or fix behavior problems. If a professional dog trainer is not an option at this time, or if you want to trt training your dog on your own (a great way to bond), I'd suggest you https://biturl.im/aU8Md

A friend recommened it to me a few years ago, and I was amazed how quickly it worked, which is why I recommend it to others. The dog training academy also has as an excellent home training course.

Answer 8

you need to get a patterdale puppy. puppies are much more accepting of everything than older dogs.