This terrier must have a strong neck, the fortitude to hold its quarry at bay, the ability to squeeze into tight burrows, and great flexibility and endurance.The coat may be one of three types: "smooth," "broken," or "rough."

Typical of terriers, whose work requires high energy and a strong drive to pursue prey, Patterdales are very energetic and can be difficult to socialize.

Though also kept as pets, due to being bred for high-intensity work, they may tend towards being too energetic for a sedentary household life.

The breed did not gain notability until Cyril Breay, a schoolmaster and huntsman, refined them even further, using the best dogs of northern England.

The Patterdale was developed in the harsh environment in the north of England, an area unsuitable for arable farming and mostly too hilly for cattle.

Since the fox is perceived by farmers as being predatory with respect to sheep and small farm animals, terriers are used for predator control.