Rat Terrier: Training & Key Characteristics of Rat Terrier Dog Breed

(American Rat Terrier)

Group: Terrier

Also Known As: Ratting Terrier, Feist, American Rat Terrier

About Rat Terrier

Origin and History of the Breed In Great Britain, sometime around the early half of 19th century, the Rat Terrier was developed from the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Manchester Terrier. And in the later part of 19th century the breed was brought to the United States of America. Although, before coming to the USA, the Rat Terrier was only available in black and tan coat shades. However, in America, the Rat Terriers were crossed with the Beagle, the Whippet, the Smooth Fox Terriers and the Chihuahua. The dog is expert at killing rats and is used in farms for such purposes. It should be mentioned here that the Rat Terrier found its name from Teddy Roosevelt.

A General Description of the Dog

The Rat Terrier has a compact, adequately muscled body with its legs and shoulder being sturdy and strong. The dog has pointed ears with a tail that varies in sizes from one dog to the other dog. Apart from the coat color being black and tan, the other colors range from chocolate, red, white, blue-white, sables and lemon with different patterns like spots and freckles. The dog is also seen in tricolors as well.

Height

The average height of each of the three sizes of the Rat Terrier are:

Weight

The average weight of each of the three sizes of the Rat Terrier are:

Personality

Temperament of the Breed

The Rat Terriers make adorable and affectionate pets. They are a lively and energetic breed that help them adjust among human families easily. The Rat Terrier is sharp-witted and intelligent by nature. Mostly good around children with whom they have grown up, they are usually well-behaved, playful and not the yapping type.

Training is fairly easy, owing their eager-to-please, enthusiasm-to-learn and responsive nature. Being a 'true-Terrier', the dog is territorial, however, they are not aggressive towards strangers. A fearless streak is seen in these dogs that make them good watchdogs. Their vermin killing instinct, has made them popular in farms and ranches. A bundle of energy, they would love to run around with their owners and even going with them to hunting.

Activity Level

How active is the breed?

Exercise is a must for the Rat Terrier. Regular long walks for at least 20 minutes or even more and occasional jogging is extremely important for this dog. The Rat Terrier will love to be included in playing fun games that involve lots of jumping.

Living Conditions

Although content living in apartments or small spaces, these dogs will need plenty of outdoors exercises like walks along with good amount of indoor and outdoor games. Best should be a small house with a backyard for the dog to roam around freely. However, these dogs being expert diggers might digs its way out even if the yard is fenced. Rat Terrier owners should have well-protected fences that has a secured bottom.

Grooming

Grooming the Rat Terrier is extremely easy, minimal and simple. The dog needs brushing and combing done occasionally to dispose of the dead hairs and to keep the skin germ free.

Health Problems

Unlike larger dogs, the Rat Terrier don't suffer from diseases related to bones, eyes or heart. However, the dog is said to suffer from food, inhalant and contact allergies. The Rat Terrier can also be sensitive to chemicals, worms, ticks and flea bites, pet cosmetic products, etc. Rare cases have been reported where the dog has suffered from bad knees or luxating patellas.

Life Expectancy: The life span of the Rat Terrier is approximately between 15 years and above