Rat terriers have acted as companions for the likes of Teddy Roosevelt, William Faulkner, Shirley McClain, and Carrie Underwood. [3] The average lifespan of a well-bred Rat Terrier is 1619 years. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Yes, Rat Terriers generally make excellent family dogs, including those with kids and other pets. Though if you have small kids, you might be better off getting the standard size Rat Terrier. The Mountain Terrier is a small breed terrier generally measuring no more than 18 inches in height and weighing under 30 pounds in weight. Photo credit: 272447, Pixabay. It's also important to note that rat terriers have extremely strong prey drives, so they shouldn't be allowed to romp off-leash in open spaces where they can meet up with small animals. Small, energetic, and feisty, this breed is often used by exterminators to rid farms and other large homestead properties of rats. Legg-Calve-Perthes. Like any breed, it's important to check your rat terrier's ears for debris or signs of infection weekly. Rat Terriers were cherished as loyal hunting companions and efficient killers of vermin on 20th-century American farms: as a result, they were one of the most popular dog types from the 1920s to the 1940s. Read our. Many of the foundation Rat Terriers were indistinguishable from small mixed-breed hunting dogs known as "feists". From there, farmers in the Midwestern plains states began breeding their new rat terriers with beagles and whippets, adding incredible burst speed to the breed's profile, according to America's Pet Registry. Dental treats are fine in moderation, but shouldn't be the only method of dental care. One source claims that a single terrier killed 2,501 rats in a seven-hour period in a rat-infested barn (an average of one rat every ten seconds).[5]. As the disease progresses, you may see signs of heart failure such as weight loss and fatigue. Do some homework on puppy training, and start them out early with some basic commands like sit, stay and come. 0. Because theyre very malleable and smart, they can adapt to most situations and make a really nice addition to your family, no matter what your family likes to do, Kallas says. Rat Terrier Breeders. They tend to have a big personality in that small package, though! Want a Rat Terrier? Rat Terriers are incredible hunters, containing the intelligence and sense of humor that youd expect in a terrier. Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Mountain Top Rat Terriers works closely together with Cal Val Rat Terriers, owned by Gail Holloway who has been a generous and knowledgeable mentor and friend. Nowadays, thanks to a resurgence in their popularity in the 1970s, you can find the rat terrier in a variety of settings, serving as both faithful companion and tireless working dog. Unless theyve had extra fun outside (aka Rattie vs dirt pile), you only need to bathe them monthly, but you can use a deodorizing spritz to freshen them up in between. People unfamiliar with the breed often confuse rat terriers for Russell terriers. Long recognized as masters in their namesake-craft, one New York City resident penned a letter to the editor of the, Musician and filmmaker Laurie Anderson made an entire documentary about her rat terrier, called. They also enjoy splashing in water, so think about taking a day trip to the coast or a lake if there isnt a body of water close home. Looking for a truly loyal BFF? Message See more of MountainTop Rat Terriers on Facebook Log In or Create new account True to their original purpose, the rat terrier will spend a lot of his outside time on the lookout for small prey. And it is a job, Kallas says. They are sturdy and compact little dog but also elegant. Rat Terriers tend to be good eaters, so feed them a measured amount of a food appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, or senior) twice a day. If its raining or snowing out, all is not lost! A dog food designed for small dog breeds would be appropriate, andbecause Rat Terriers can be prone to skin allergies from various causesKallas says she looks for kibble with a fish-based protein (otherwise, she supplements with fish oil). Heart failure is the leading cause of death in rat terriers, though this typically doesnt occur until old age. Their coat is short and smooth. Your Rat Terriers nails need to be trimmed about once a month because long nails can be painful for them to walk on. Mountain Top Rat Terriers in California | Rat Terrier puppies | Good Dog Breeders Purebred Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Alaskan Husky Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Bully American English Coonhound American Eskimo Dog American Foxhound American Hairless Terrier socialization and training is a must. Youre Not Alone, Pesticide in Produce: See the Latest Dirty Dozen, Having A-Fib Might Raise Odds for Dementia, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Health Problems to Watch for With Rat Terriers. While rat terriers are fairly calm for a terrier breed, theyre still very high-energy dogs that require lots of exercise and attention. Their dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. 3192. Rat terriers can be stubborn dogs, but theyre clever and highly trainable. Hip Dysplasia. Gails family have been Rat Terrier breeders since the 1900. Rat Terriers earned their name through history by being experts at catching rats. Inquisitive and highly intelligent, these qualities work in their favor when it comes to puzzles and games that will provide seemingly endless entertainment. Once the most common farm dog in America, rat terriers are now popular family pets due to their social nature and rapport with children.. They also love digging holes, so make sure that fence is extra-secure before setting them free. Theyre affectionate and love family life, and they are adaptable enough to be anything from apartment-dwellers to farm hands. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. HEIGHT: Generally, 10 to 13 inches for miniature Rat Terriers and 13 to 18 inches for standard Rat Terriers, COAT COLOR: Comes in pied (meaning one or more colors with large patches of white) patterns; common colors include black and white with rust, tan, lemon, blue, red, chocolate, or orange, TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, inquisitive, affectionate, lively, alert, loving. Training and obedience may be challenging but it's vital for proper behavior and socialization. One benefit of this is their surprisingly hardy constitutions. They love people and and are good with other dogs, and even cats, when theyve been socialized from a young age. Do not lettheir smaller size fool you. 2. Theyre often wonderful with children, especially if introduced to them from a young age. Treatment might not be necessary in mild cases, but joint supplements might be helpful with this condition. If your dog's ears are red, inflamed, or smell funny, schedule a visit with your vet ASAPthese may be signs of injury or infection. Regular exercise is non-negotiable, but they dont need to be kept moving at all times. 5. This breed has a small, wedge shaped head, directly forming into a narrow muzzle with a severe scissor bite. Bonus points if you can provide lots of mental stimulation during playtime. Balanced, compactly built Rat Terriers are tough but elegant-looking. But it should be noted that they shed mildly throughout the year, with a heavier seasonal shed in the spring and fall. Rat Terriers live up to the term mans best friendtheir temperament is as devoted as their ears are perky. A quick brushing every week or so will help remove dead hairs and reduce shedding. Ticking is usually visible in the white parts of the coat, or in the underlying skin. Because everyone is touching them and interacting with them.". This breed comes in two compact sizes: a miniature Rat Terrier dog that stands 1013 inches tall, and the standard size thats 1318 inches tall. Rat terriers can enjoy (and excel at) canine sports like agility and obedience.. [1] They share much ancestry with the small hunting dogs known as feists. Could a rat terrier be a good apartment dog? As small to medium-sized dogs, the average rat terrier size ranges from 10 to 18 inches in length and from 8 to 35 pounds in weight. Through the years we have purchased many outstanding Standard Rat Terriers and have begun a top quality breeding program that consists of the last remaining Standard type Fire Mountain dogs left in the world. And while that should begin with your breeder, thats only the start. That said, they can view pocket pets like hamsters as snacks rather than siblings. Shes been breeding, training, showing, and loving the breed for 30 years. Insurance for dogs, cats, and other household animals can run as low as $20 a month, but that cost can add up over time. Rat terriers are alert enough to make very good home alarm systems and will happily alert you to strangers at your door. Before you add a Rat Terrier to your family, make sure youre prepared to meet their needs. Valvular disease is a common cause of heart failure, and it usually has no symptoms. Boasting an ancestry that goes back some 500 years, the rat terrier breed became established in the United States throughout the 1920s and '30s. They are prone to chronic allergies and scratching, which often results in secondary bacterial infections. If you notice your Rattie scratching or licking more than usual or any red bumps or hair loss, talk to your veterinarian right away to reduce the risk of a more serious infection. Like all pets, rat terrier temperament can vary somewhat depending on the individual dog.. Keep training interestingand keep your rat engagedby incorporating games and rewards. Top Shelf Rat Terriers No puppies are available. 30+ year Rat Terrier bloodline. The breed declined after the 1950s when pesticides and poisons became . In fact, they were specifically bred for this very task and in the 1910s and 1920s, they were the most common farm dog in the US. She strongly recommends working closely with a reputable Rat Terrier breeder to find a puppy thats a good fit for your situation. Remember to give treats in moderation. Rat Terriers love the water and enjoy swimming. Tiny, tenacious, and eager to please, the rat terrier's high prey drive and intelligence make him a versatile dog for farm or family living. Rat Terriers are social butterflies, and they arent keen on being left alone for long periods. West Highland White Terrier. Originally bred to work on farms, the rat terrier is a small dog with high energy levels, high exercise needs, and a strong propensity to hunt and chase. The Rat Terrier started to become their own breed when they rose in popularity on family farms throughout the 1920s, 30s, and 40s. They are a breed that will need daily exercise and stimulation to stay healthy and keep from being bored. The classic coloring is black tan point with piebald spotting (known as black tricolor), but chocolate, tan (varying in shade from pale gold to dark mahogany), blue, isabella (pearl), lemon, and apricot are all fairly common. Rat Terriers bark when they feel its necessary. Rat terriers have great personalities and are highly social, affectionate dogs. They give 100 percent whether theyre hunting vermin, running agility or having a training session. Rat terriers are usually loyal to their owners and are very respectful if they receive the proper amount of training at a young age. In the Midwest, rat terriers were bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds to produce quick dogs that could help control jackrabbit populations. Rat terriers may be an easy breed to find in your area. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid, Active Shooter & Mass Attack Safety Resources. Striving for dogs with the size, prey drive, and temperment for all your . Rat Terrier tails are usually docked, but they can also have a bobtail (naturally short) or long and graduating to a point at the tip. They are sturdy and compact little dog but also elegant. But by the 19th century, dogs were being bred with rat-catching (or rat baiting) as a specific goal. But, as with any dog, it's important to supervise puppy playtime and always teach your children how to properly interact with pets. Rat Terriers make wonderful dogs for families living in any size of home. Originally bred to work on farms, the rat terrier is a small dog with high energy levels, high exercise needs, and a strong propensity to hunt and chase. Apartment dwellers should be aware, however, that while the rat terrier isn't prone to reckless barking, their barks are shrill and distinctive. Rat terrier coats come in a wide variety of colors, including bicolor and tricolor patterns. Farmers used different combinations of breeds to land on the traits they required for the job. Rat Terriers that have their nutritional, environmental, and social needs met and come from responsible breeders tend to be healthy dogs. The Rat Terrier dog breed comes from a mix of several different breed types including the Smooth Fox Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Whippet, Italian Greyhound and Beagle. Black, tan, chocolate, blue, grey Isabella (pearl), lemon and apricot. Paired with their insatiable curiosity and athletic nature, this can make them talented escape artists, so this is not a dog you should leave alone in your backyard. The Rat Terrier's ears can stand straight up or be semi-erect with the tips pointed upwards or flopping down (which is known as button ears). If daily care seems daunting, aim for a few times a week. The American Kennel Club, Inc. 2022. If you dont get their daily walk or run in, these pups can get destructive and turn to chewing shoes or barking when bored. Breeding for the health and longevity we always had in our dogs for the last 40 years! Boasting an ancestry that goes back some 500 years, the rat terrier breed became established in the United States throughout the 1920s and '30s. Our dogs are bred to UKC & AKC standards for temperament, hunting ability, conformation and good health. Wherever you live, due to their feisty and fearless nature, they also make great watchdogs. You can typically satisfy their wiggles with at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. The Rat Terriers coat doesnt require too much to stay smooth and shiny. They love to follow people around while they do chores, are smart enough to instinctively avoid horses and other livestock, andtrue to their breedingwill rid properties of rats and other pests with a tireless zeal. RTs come in two size varieties and are happy-go-lucky, playful, and portable companions. Rat terriers come in three sizes: miniature, standard, and a larger size commonly called the Decker. While there is no standard feeding chart, your veterinarian can help you determine the best amount of food, and how often your pup should be eating, to meet your dogs unique nutrition needs. However they were, for the most part, bred for speed. While they can still certainly excel in the hunt, this is a very family-oriented dog that wants to join in with whatever his people happen to be doing. Rat terriers routinely live to 15 years of age or more, and the breed has a low number of chronic issues. 3. Heres what you need to know about why cats purr and what your cat may be telling you when her motor is running. This condition can lead to glaucoma and, if left untreated, total blindness. RELATED: Which Type of Dog Fence Is Right for Your Pet? The Decker Hunting Terrier Registry was created specifically for the Decker Giant. They may not be ready to beat you in a game of chess, but these brainy dogs are easy to train and generally eager to please you. If sitting on the couch watching movies sounds fun, better move over to share your popcornafter youve taken your daily walk, of course. But you should not bathe them more frequently than once a month or so, she adds, as this will strip them of the natural oils that keep their skin healthy. The Rattie was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2006. Loving, loyal, and affectionate to family members, High energy levels and exercise needs, which may be difficult for busy families, May be difficult to train, due to their intelligence. They take to training incredibly well and pick up on tasks quickly, but will also show a propensity to be willful. 43. Police departments have started using them as contraband search dogs as their intelligence level shortens training to as little as three weeks which is much shorter than for traditional police service breeds. Due to their instinct to chase after prey, rat terriers need to be leashed while walking or any time theyre not contained in a fenced area. They're naturally highly social dogs who develop bonds quickly with their owners. Occurring in 3 to 4% of rat terriers, hip dysplasia can cause pain and leg stiffness. Valvular Disease in Small Breed Dogs. What to Expect When Caring for a Rat Terrier., Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Getting Closer to the Cause of Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease., Frontiers in Veterinary Science: Current Understanding of the Genetics of Intervertebral Disc Disease., Louisiana State University: Genetics of Deafness in Dogs., Orthopedic Foundation for Animals: What is Primary Lens Luxation?, The Rat Terrier Club of America: Rat Terrier Club of America Health Statement., UC Davis Veterinary Medicine: Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)., University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center: Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy., Veterinary Medicine: Patellar luxation in dogs.. Dental hygiene is also extremely important when it comes to caring for your dog. The important thing is that your Rat Terrier feels engaged in what their family is doing. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. With their tiny bodies, high prey drive, and digging expertise, rat terriers are true escape artists. Rat Terriers thrive in busy homes with a loving pet parent. Grooming, however, is generally a cinch thanks to their slick, tight coatbut be aware that they do still shed. However, because they can be more prone to environmental allergies than some breeds, keep an eye out for any itching of the ears, which could lead to infection. teach your children how to properly interact with pets, Hatch, a dog aboard king Henry VIII's favorite ship. They require firm boundaries, regular exercise, and lots of love and attention from their family to feel safe, secure, and happy. Rat terriers are relatively low-maintenance dogs. Youll have to forgive them for having a bit of a stubborn streakthey may be too smart for their own good, but they are likely to make up for it by being a fast learner in training or winning you a ribbon in an agility show. Fast, nimble hunters, they excel at agility competitions and love to run. They make great watchdogs, because they will bark to alert you when someones at the door. Adopting a rat terrier can cost a few hundred dollars to cover the cost of care. Puppies bred through a reputable breeder will have their puppies screened for any concerns medically and behaviorally and may come with pedigree papers. Nevertheless, with a little training and lots of play, these pups make excellent family companions. Flea and tick preventatives come in both over-the-counter and prescription formulas. "Children should learn how to be respectful to their dogs and read dog communication cues. The miniature size 13 inches (33cm) and under as defined by the UKC has become more popular as a house pet and companion dog, but the miniature is still a hunting dog. The Rat Terrier lifespan is generally 12 . Buying a purebred rat terrier from a breeder might cost you up to $2,000. Pet parents need to keep up with weekly nail trims, and Kallas recommends annual dental cleanings. Like most of the terrier breeds, these are brilliant little dogs. See our complete Pug guide Get all the facts, from health to exercise to temperament, in our complete Italian Greyhound guide. There is some confusion between the rat terrier and Teddy terrier breeds. They tend to be a very healthy and active breed but, like all dogs, they are prone to certain health problems. As with any dog breed, its best to supervise when your two- and four-legged babies are interacting. Its hard to resist that face when theyre begging for more snacks, and of course, treats can be an important part of your little friends training regimen. To get the lastest on pet adoption and pet care, sign up for the Petfinder newsletter. After a period of development this line resulted in the American Hairless Terrier, recognized as a separate breed by several registries. Heartworm preventatives are prescription medications that come in oral or topical forms. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Throughout the 1910s and 1920s, rat terrier breeders worked to propagate certain skills, resulting in several new lines in the breed. Daily Paws is part of the Meredith National Digital Network. Brindle, currently disallowed by the main breed standards, is considered by some to be a traditional Rat Terrier pattern, and there is a growing movement to have this pattern accepted into the breed. They are similar in size to the Russell, with standard rat terriers topping out around 18 inches tall and the miniature version clocking in at under 13 inches, according to the Rat Terrier Club of America (RTCA). It's important to note that this breed experiences heavier shedding during the fall, spring, and heat cycles. Boston Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Toy Fox Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Kerry Blue Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Manchester Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Norwich Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Australian Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Airedale Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, American Hairless Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care. To prevent heartworms parasitic worms that are transmitted through mosquito bites and infest the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of dogs youll need to start your rat terrier on a heartworm preventative medication. Websites like Petfinder.com make it easy to search shelters in your area by breed, size, sex, and more. Small, extremely quick, and blessed with a sharp mind and an ambitious spirit, these agile little dogs excel as hunters of vermin and other small animals. Rewards-based training works best for the Rat Terrier, so prepare to give them plenty of praise and invest in some dog training treats (within reason, as you dont want your pooch getting a paunch). The genetic diversity of the Rat Terrier has contributed to the overall health, keen intelligence, and soundness of the breed. Rat Terriers do best with positive reinforcement, patience, and clear boundariesthough, Kallas says, they will test those boundaries. As long as they are raised with children, they do well co-habitating with them. Rat terriers can be stubborn dogs, but they're clever and highly trainable. Rat Terrier . He enjoys being outside, going for walks and taking baths.He is very active and loves being around people.Duke also loves to chase squirrels in his free time.. Zipper, Rat Terrier / Mountain Feist"All Zipper's life he has loved to chase rocks; he brings you a rock and . The NRTA recognizes a Toy variety weighing 10 pounds (4.5kg) or less. Dont forget that they still operate on instinctno matter their training, your Rattie might still make the occasional, sudden lunge for a squirrel on your afternoon walk. Together we have produced . Coldwater Rat Terriers. Even a well-trained rat terrier may forget its manners when it spots a squirrel so imagine if your rattie encounters a hamster ball rolling around under its nose! Some health problems that are commonly seen in rat terriers include: If you're worried about your rat terrier's health, talk to your vet about simple ways you can help him live a long, happy, healthy life. Rat Terriers, especially as they age, can develop heart disease. Though some rat terrier puppies are born with naturally short tails, these terriers have had their tails traditionally docked. But by and large, the rat terrier is blessed with a coat that is short enough to not mat up and naturally oily enough to not hold on to dirt. The rat terrier was common on American farms, but populations began to decline in the 1940s and 1950s when farmers began to use poison to control pests and vermin. Help our free service by spreading information about dog breeds. Between this, their intelligence, and their energy levels, theyre typically best suited to experienced pet parents. Puppies available on occasion. The Rat Terrier breed typically does well on high-quality commercial dog food. ", "If compared to a human, a rat terrier would be like the child at a birthday party who is the first to join a fun game, shout in excitement, and eager to open the presents.". These attributes were rated by several pet experts, including a dog trainer, veterinarian and behaviorist. Rat terriers are pretty close to a "set it and forget it" breed when it comes to grooming. All of our dogs come from Cal Val bred lines and some of our dogs are listed on their page. You can protect your rat terrier from fleas and ticks by using a flea and tick preventative like a topical medication or a flea and tick collar. if theyre raised with them. All Rat Terrier found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Most of those dogs were mixed breeds who individually showed an aptitude for vermin hunting. Good news! The breed name comes from the occupation of its earliest ancestors brought to the US by working-class British migrants as the dogs were used in rat-baiting. Keeping up with the weekly brushing will prevent tiny Rattie hairs from invading your home. Ratties are just as happy relaxing with you at home as they are on the agility course, and their zest for life and charming characteristics might make you want more than one. If left to their own devices for too long in an unsupervised backyard, they will find a way out.

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