history

The Patterdale Terrier originated in England's Lake District in the 1960s, developed from the rugged Fell Terrier to protect sheep from foxes by hunting and flushing them from rocky dens. Bred by farmers like Cyril Breay and Frank Buck, they are known for their game, tough nature, and ability to work both above and below ground. The breed was further refined by Brian Nuttall and later recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1995, though it remains a working type rather than a formal breed in the UK.
Origins and Development

• Fell Terrier Ancestry:The Patterdale Terrier is a subtype of the Fell Terrier, a group of hardy working terriers from Northern England. 
• Purpose:Farmers in the Lake District needed a tough, tenacious dog to hunt foxes that threatened their sheep flocks. 
• Selective Breeding:The breed was developed from the black, smooth-coated Fell Terrier, with notable work in breeding by Cyril Breay, Frank Buck, and Brian Nuttall in the mid-1900s. 
• Working Characteristics:Their rugged environment led to the development of a dog that could bolt foxes from rocky dens and dispatch them if they fought. 

Key Traits

• Toughness and Game: Known for being exceptionally tough and game, especially for their size. 
• Physical Traits: They possess a narrow chest to go into tight spaces, powerful jaws, and a tough coat to withstand thorns and harsh weather. 
• Versatility: While bred for fox hunting, they are also used to hunt other quarry like raccoons and nutria and excel in canine sports. 

Recognition and Spread

• UK Recognition:The Patterdale Terrier is not an official breed recognized by the UK Kennel Club, but a working type. 
• US Recognition:The United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the Patterdale Terrier as a breed on January 1, 1995. 
• Global Use:They were brought to the United States where they continued their role as hunting dogs.