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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 head.
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 5 to 7 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. Extreme viciousness or
shyness.
This information from the UKC
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