The Patterdale Terrier is not KC registered, so there is no set breed standard.
However, different coat types have become common for Patterdale’s, such as rough and smooth coats that can be long-haired or short-haired.
Patterdale Terriers are a wonderful breed, but certainly not for the faint-hearted. Originally bred to dispatch small game such as Foxes and Badgers, they have since become more of a family pet – although many are still used to this day as working dogs. So don’t be surprised if the Patterdale you buy has a docked tail, which, when done by a professional vet, is not as cruel as it sounds.
Patterdale Terriers with long hair have a wavy look and much more facial hair like a moustache, eyebrows, and a beard. They will often fall under the broken coat type if you have a long-haired Patterdale.
Grooming a long-haired Patterdale Terrier
Grooming a Patterdale Terrier with long hair is the same as grooming any other long-haired dog.
When it comes to shampooing, start by shampooing your Patterdale using a specifically designed shampoo for dogs. You can bathe your dog frequently; however, shampooing should only occur once per month to ensure your dog’s coat stays healthy.
It would help to brush your Patterdale with a long coat at least once per week. First, purchase a brush that you can use to untangle the hair and remove any dead ends. Next, once the hair has been separated, you can use a smaller pin brush to groom your dog and help to keep the hair healthy.
Many people say Patterdales don’t shed much; compared to some dogs, this may be true. But, in general, if you don’t brush your Patterdale once per week, you’ll start to notice hair everywhere.
We must point out that Patterdales are not the easiest dogs to groom. Of course, there are exceptions to the rules, but more often than not, a Patterdale will put up a fight to be groomed. That is why it is vital to desensitise your Patterdale to a brush from a puppy, as trying to do this as an adult may be challenging.
Many owners actually muzzle train their Patterdales if they have long hair as they are required to be groomed more frequently. If you have a Patterdale and have struggled to groom them, please let us know in the comments.
What are the benefits of a long-haired coat?
Patterdale’s with long hair have some excellent health benefits for both pet and owner. For example, studies have proven that grooming your pet can help to lower blood pressure and stress.
Another benefit for long-haired Patts is that they manage the cold much better than shorter-haired Patterdales. This means there is less need to put a coat on them in the winter if the temperature drops below freezing. But, on the contrary, this does mean that they hold heat in the summer months, making them more susceptible to hot days, so it is essential to take care of your Patterdale Terrier in the hotter summer months.