11-15 lbs
10-12"
United States
Lets look at the parent dogs to determine the history that our Patterjack Terrier will inherit. The Jack Russell originated in southern England. Parson John Russell developed the breed during the mid 1800s which is where it got its name from. The goal sought from this development was to obtain a terrier that would hunt with the hounds but more importantly go into dens after the foxes who would then bolt and the hounds would take up the chase. This active small dog became a favorite of hunters especially those on horse back. The Jack Russell Terrier became known for its enthusiastic and energetic pursuit. By the 1930s this hard working little dog was well known and popular among owners in the United States. In 2000 the American Kennel Club recognised the breed calling it the Parson Russell Terrier to distinguish it from the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America. Feisty, energetic, and a hard working dog, the Jack Russell remains a popular Terrier to this day. The Patterdale Terrier is an active dog that is a descendant of the Fell Terrier. The origins of the dog go back to Northern England hundreds of years ago where they were used to hunt and control foxes, and eliminate vermin in both the homes and the stables. While not a lot is known about their history, they are respected for their fearless nature and hard working ability. These tough little terriers would give their all for the hunters around the Lake District, often chasing game such as the fox into the den, then going in to chase it out or to stand and fight. They were also used to hunt badgers to control the numbers. In recent times it is still used as a hunting and working dog mostly on farms, as it has been for eons. The United Kingdom recognised the Patterdale Terrier in 1995 as both a working dog and a companion. This feisty small dog made its way to the United States where it hunts for raccoons, foxes and groundhog. The Patterdale Terrier excels in a number of canine sports such as agility and racing.
The Patterjack is relatively easy to maintain. Their dense thick short coats require a brushing every two or three days to keep it slick, with an occasional combing to rid any shedding hair. These dogs may need more bathing than some other companion dogs, due to their working nature and their tendency to dig. Just don't overdo it as it could strip the natural oil from the coat which will reduce the effectiveness of that weatherproof coat. While brushing, check for any cuts or sores that may be on their body and treat if needed. Also check their feet for injury and clip the nails when required. Ears are another area that can accumulate dirt and oil, so gently wipe the inner ear out with a damp soft cloth, drying it carefully after you have finished. Twice a week or more, brush your dogs teeth to ensure a sweet breath.
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The Patterjack dog could be best described as a sturdy cheerful dog full of energy and with the need to be doing something... anything! They are not the dog for small apartments or homes, as they need a yard to explore or ideally, the countryside. With a strong instinct to hunt they have a tendency to chase after small fast moving animals and that includes cats. It does help if your dog has been raised with a cat, but that doesn't mean it won't chase the neighbours cat. A typical terrier, they can be over confident and won't back down even to bigger dogs. Walk your dog on a leash when out walking to control its natural chasing instincts. This beautiful dog requires strong leadership. Being easy on this dog will do it no favors, it needs strong consistent leadership to keep it out of trouble. These are dogs that need jobs! They need to be challenged such as agility work, farm work, or taken on long walks in the country to tire them out. As a family dog they get along well with children. If they have been raised with the children they will be affectionate and caring. Teach the children to respect the dog and don't pull his tail or stretch his ears or mess with his food, as this dog may not have the patience to put up with rough treatment. Best described as a true working dog, yet loyal, affectionate and a good looking dog, the Patterjack requires a firm confident hand to bring the best out in him.
Written by a Golden Labrador Retriever lover Jean Brewer
Published: 11/10/2017, edited: 12/20/2021
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