The first thing you’re…
Going to want to know about this little guy is that he is definitely a mischievous little one! And not in a “mean” way, rather in a way that just lets you know that these guys are really, really smart.
Now this is…
Probably because the Rat Terrier Dog Breed is one of the smallest of the hunting breeds and like many “hunting” dogs, these dogs need to depend on their own natural intelligence to succeed on a hunt.
He’s also…
A true terrier – brave and courageous, loyal and affectionate, funny and smart. He is a highly energetic little fella, always searching for rats and other vermin.
He is both…
…A hunting dog and a farm dog. The Rat Terrier is as American as apple pie. This Mixed-Breed Dog is originally from the UK, but made his way to the United States in the 19th century.
Since then…
The Rat Terrier has been an integral part of American history and culture. These days he is regarded as a family pet, but there was a time when he served a very useful purpose – eliminating rats.
Indeed…
President Theodore Roosevelt was one of his biggest admirers. Back when President Roosevelt was in power, the White House had a serious rat infestation problem.
Back then…
This little White House resident was quite the little terror, the Rat Terrier that rose to the occasion, getting rid of every rat within and outside the White House. It was a highly efficient and ruthless operation, almost military-like, if you will!
President Roosevelt was certainly impressed!
Comparisons
The Rat Terrier may be compared to other Terrier breeds such as the Chihuahua-Rat Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Fox Terrier, Jack-Rat Terrier, and Bull Terrier.
It would also be fair…
To compare him to other family pets such as the American Cockapoos, Askal Dog, Italian Greyhound, French Bulldog, Pug, Puggle and the German Shepherd. Largely because this “Mixed Breed Dog” was developed from many breeds, including the:
- Italian Greyhound,
- Miniature Pinscher,
- Whippet,
- Beagle,
- and the Chihuahua.
But, is he the one for you?
The Rat Terrier is better suited to families with children aged 5 and above. The Rattie, as he is called, is small enough to live happily in an apartment or condo. But given a choice, he’d prefer to live in large estates or farms where he can hunt for rats and small animals.
But remember…
Always buy Rat Terrier Puppies for Sale from a reputable breeder, someone who runs an ethical breeding program. Read the rest of this article to find out more about the Rattie.
Rat Terrier Fast Facts
Country of Origin: USA
Original Purpose: Hunt small vermin
Height: Miniature: 10 to 13 inches; Standard: 13 to 18 inches
Weight: 8 to 25 pounds
Dog Breed Classification: Terrier group
Life Span: 12 to 18 years
Origin of the Rat Terrier Dog Breed
The Rat Terrier may be originally from the UK, but he came into his own only in the United States. Mainly because it was here in the United States that he was bred as a multi-purpose farm dog.
You see…
Back then, it was his job to kill rats and other vermin. Something that he was really, really good at. This is why these little guys still remain one of the most common dogs you will see in the American countryside!
And while…
It’s fair to say that the “Rat Terrier” is unlike any other dog breed out there, one should acknowledge the fact that this little guy is definitely a “mixed-breed” dog. Developed from many breeds such as the Italian Greyhound, Whippet, Miniature Pinscher, Beagle, and the Chihuahua.
Which is probably why…
The American Kennel Club didn’t decide to fully recognize the Rat Terrier until 2013 despite the fact that these little guys have been around for centuries!
Physical Characteristics
Rat Terriers are tireless, active, muscular dogs. They have a compact structure, strong shoulder blades, strong legs and deep chests.
These dogs have a wedge shaped head, strong muzzle, powerful jaw, sharp teeth, docked tail and small, erect ears.
Size
The breed standard is of two sizes – Miniature and Standard.
Miniature Rat Terriers are 10 to 13 inches in height at the shoulder level and Standard Rat Terriers are 13 to 18 inches in height.
Coat
The Rat Terrier has a short, smooth coat with dense, shiny fur. The coat comes in different colors such as black with tan, white, black with rust, red, blue, lemon, orange, chocolate, white and black, or white and tan. Almost every Rat Terrier has white markings on its coat.
Grooming
The Rat Terrier is one of those dogs with minimal grooming requirements. You only need to brush his coat once every week. That should be enough. Make sure to clean his ears regularly to prevent ear infection.
Temperament and Personality
The Rat Terrier is one of the best family pets you can have. He may be a small dog, but he thinks he is much bigger than he really is.
He won’t hesitate to fight for you if you are in danger or under any sort of threat. He is simply a fearless little dog, not afraid to take on humans or other dogs that are much bigger in size.
He is great with kids!
The Rat Terrier is one of those dogs that are always in mood to play. He likes nothing more than to be a part the games kids play. He loves children and follows them everywhere. He is loyal and affectionate and protective of the kids in the family. Kids love him too; they see him as an adorable little brother.
Just one thing…
He does have a loud bark and can wake up everyone in the neighborhood. Also, he is a high-energy dog; he gets bored when you leave him alone by himself for too long.
He remains an adorable little creature and can be an excellent companion dog for singles, couples and seniors. And he is remarkably healthy too.
Health Problems
The Rat Terrier is one of the healthiest dog breeds out there. He has very good life expectancy of 12 to 18 years. 18 years? That’s incredible for a dog.
But like all breeds, even these dogs are prone to certain health issues. You should be aware of these problems if you want to bring a Rat Terrier home:
- Allergies,
- Incorrect Bites,
- Luxating Patella,
- Demodectic Mange.
And while…
Many of these conditions may not be life threatening, they can certainly become quite expensive to deal with particularly if they become recurring issues.
This is why…
We here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be right for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
Is he good with other dogs?
They are good with other dogs. If you get one as a puppy they should be fine. But if you adopt an older dog, it depends.
We had an almost 2 year old rattie and bought another rattie puppy. They hit it off right away and, 6 months later, they’re pretty much inseparable.