I agree that dogs bred for their working characteristics are a different kettle of fish than those bred to a "breed standard". I adopted a chocolate Patterdale terrier a few months ago, and she's a little star - bright as a button and very funny and affectionate. The only trouble is that it's the nature of the breed to focus on any small animal and give chase, so the rescue centre told me I could never let her off the lead on walks, as we live in the country and if she took off after a hare or rabbit we might never get her back again - apparently this is a major reason for terriers getting lost and going to rescue in the first place.. This is heartbreaking, as she is such a bundle of energy and is so full of life and I know how happy it would make her. The rescue centre made sure we had outdoor space for her that was appropriately secure- patterdales are diggers and will escape if given the chance.We had a good-sized back yard where she could trot about, but it was paved and, while very safe, it was not very stimulating for an inquisitive little girl.

Well, we moved at the weekend to a house with a lovely big lawned (and fully fenced) garden. Seeing her tearing around in absolute delight, huffling in the Borders and generally having a good old romp, made me so happy. It definitely compensates for those long walks on leads.

Dunno what else I wanted to say, really, except that she's brought such happiness to us in the brief time we've had her that it's lovely to see her so happy.