Black & White Patterjack Playing
Loki and his ballIain FarrellCC BY-ND

Patterjack Dog Breed

The patterjack is a hybrid dog breed which is the offspring of a purebred Patterdale Terrier and the purebred Jack Russell Terrier. As a crossbreed the patterjack will have physical and behavioral traits of both parent breeds. However, not all patterjacks will receive the same traits from each parent which can lead to physical and behavioral differences between patterjacks (even if from the same litter).

Although it is near impossible to predict which traits a patterjack will receive, you can expect the breed to have the physical and behavioral characteristics shared between both parent breeds.

Patterjack Breed Details

Below are some of the traits you can expect a patterjack terrier to have:

Type
Hybrid
Lifespan
10 - 12 yrs.
Height
10 - 14 in.
Weight
11 - 16 lbs
Friendliness
OverallFamily FriendlyChild FriendlyPet FriendlyStranger Friendly
Maintenance
Easy to GroomEnergy LevelExercise NeedsHealthShedding Amount
Behavior
Barks / HowlsEasy to TrainGuard DogPlayfulnessWatch Dog
Ownership
Apartment DogCan be AloneGood for Busy OwnersGood for New OwnersIntelligence

Patterjack Breed Description

You can expect the patterjack to have physical and behavioral characteristics that are common in both parent breeds. Based on this, you can expect the patterjack to be a small dog breed which stands 11-14 inches from ground to shoulder.

Patterjacks are sturdy and cheerful dogs with a somewhat laid back attitude. They are intelligent, but can be stubborn at times so it is not recommended to spoil patterjacks as this can make themselves as your alpha leader which can lead to behavioral issues.

Patterjacks are good with children but should be monitored when with smaller children as they can oftentimes unintentionally hurt the patterjack due to its small size.

Patterjack Temperament

The Patterjack temperament cannot be predicted in fail-proof manner. Some be more like the Patterdale Terrier while others will favor the Jack Russell but, regardless, they are known for their loving, cheerful-- and, of course, curious personalities that, if not brought up correctly, can manifest as aggressive and stubborn.

This breed is best suited for the experienced owner that is a hunter or active person because the PJ thrives on tasks and "work". It is important to set boundaries and and start training immediately to keep the Terrier "fire" under control. A dominant owner that, most importantly, is firm and consistent will have the most success with these dogs. An untrained, under-stimulated Patterjack can be a nightmare... barking, digging, snapping and showing territorial behaviors; ditto for those that are treated like a baby instead of a pet.

A well socialized Patterjack that has been brought up around children and other pets should make a good family pet. They fare best with older, more respectful children and can usually live with cats. They do retain strong hunting instincts towards small animals so, in addition to socialization, it is advised to keep them leashed outdoors unless inside a fenced area. Energetic and alert, the PJ enjoys hunting activities, patrolling the house or yard, long walks and games with toys.

Patterjack Health

Below are health issues and concerns most common in Patterjacks

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