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. But you don't need to have a farmstead to have a happy rat terrier. The Westie originated from Scotland as a ratter and hunting dog, fearlessly chasing after badgers, otters, and rats alike. West Highland White Terrier. The Rattie was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2006. They're naturally highly social dogs who develop bonds quickly with their owners. All rights reserved. They are also considered good family pets because of their energy and compatibility with kids. Overeating can lead to dangerous health conditions, like canine heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. 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. 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. Expert input provided by Dr. Antje Joslin, veterinarian for Dogtopia, certified dog trainer and behavior consultant Julie Parker, CTC, CPDT-KA owner of Rocky Mountain Dog Training, and AKC/UKC Judge Tracey A. Kallas, RTCA, Judges Education Coordinator and Vice President, Breeder of Merit at K2 Rat Terriers. As for bathing rat terriers, a monthly bath is typically enough for most.Rat terrier care should include nail trimming monthly or as needed, You should brush their teeth daily with a toothpaste formulated for dogs. Rat terriers come in three sizes: miniature, standard, and a larger size commonly called the Decker. 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. The Rat Terrier breed typically does well on high-quality commercial dog food. The Rat Terrier is an American dog breed with a background as a farm dog and hunting companion. If you like the way [a breeders] dogs look and act as compared to anything else you have seen, you are recognizing that time and money, she says, so be willing to pay for that.. 20 talking about this. This is particularly concerning due to their potential for joint and cardiac issues. If you notice a waxy build-up in your dog's ears, gently clean it with a cotton cloth. The King of Toys is a tiny dog with a ginormous personality. She strongly recommends working closely with a reputable Rat Terrier breeder to find a puppy thats a good fit for your situation. Rat terriers have slightly elongated bodies and V-shaped ears that often stick up. As much as they love their family, this breed was bred to hunt verminand their natural prey drive reflects that, so early (and consistent!) The Mountain Terrier is a small breed terrier generally measuring no more than 18 inches in height and weighing under 30 pounds in weight. That's because there's an unfounded rumor that Teddy Roosevelt named the rat terrier when his dog eradicated vermin in the White House. Most Rat Terriers are athletic and agile, LOVE to play, and have a special passion for chasing balls. Training your dog to follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety. 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. Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers is back! The Rat Terrier Club of America is the official breed parent club for the American Kennel Club. Rat terrier puppies, like all dogs, need early socialization and consistent training to grow into well-rounded dogs. Rat Terrier Their name says it all: this dog is the perfect rat hunter. Your vet will diagnose the condition with X-rays, and treatment is often done with surgery. 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). Rat Terriers have expressive, alert faces that reflect their zest for life. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Thanks in large part to their intelligence and deep love of human companionship, they also do remarkably well in family settings and are small and easy-going enough to fit well in apartments. Rat terriers are relatively low-maintenance dogs. 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 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. Would this breed be a good choice for a first-time dog owner? Often mistaken for Russell terriers, rat terriers are small, adorable little dogs with intelligent eyes and a keen mind. "There's a lot to early socialization," says Dennis Riordan, DVM, of the Riordan Pet Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. In fact, its a great way for them to exercise. Though if you have small kids, you might be better off getting the standard size Rat Terrier. Websites like Petfinder.com make it easy to search shelters in your area by breed, size, sex, and more. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. Jodi Jacobson/iStock/Getty Images Plus/Getty Images. Rat terriers were initially bred to hunt rats, so they have a strong prey drive. Lens luxation can lead to inflammation, glaucoma, and, if left untreated, blindness. Ready to see what dogs fit you best? As their name implies, these dogs kind of have a thing for vermin. Do not lettheir smaller size fool you. So people on your floor will very quickly be able to tell which dog is yours. Rat Terriers are a big personality in a compact body. Apartment dwellers should be aware, however, that while the rat terrier isn't prone to reckless barking, their barks are shrill and distinctive. In the current times, the Rat Terrier is becoming popular not only as a family pet but as a working dog in several fields. To us, Rat Terriers are the perfect combination of a mind that is quick,easy to train and wants to please, with anincrediblyathletic, well-muscled and pleasingly balancedbody,with short coats that have mild to lightshedding. 300+ Cute Cat Names for Every Kind of Kitty. Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information. 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. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the delicate inner-ear structures. History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners. They are smart enough and social enough to want to be a part of everything, to want to know and understand what is going on around them, and to try to be part of the fun, Kallas says. As with any dog breed, its best to supervise when your two- and four-legged babies are interacting. While this friendly breed is good with kids and other dogs, its still advisable to spend time socializing your Rat Terrier while theyre a puppy so they become accustomed to meeting new people and dogs, and even cats, who they can (though not always) be trained to live with. A balanced diet of high-quality dog food is best for a Rat Terrier. Rat terriers can enjoy (and excel at) canine sports like agility and obedience.. These regal little dogs are charming and affectionate. They do best with families who understand their energy levels and exercise needs and arent going to leave them alone for long periods. Rat Terriers bark when they feel its necessary. All rat terriers need to receive core vaccines, which include: Depending on your rat terriers exposure risk, your veterinarian may recommend additional, non-core vaccines such asBordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira bacteria.. If you commit to teaching them your rules, youll have an energetic, playful bestie to fall in love with in no time. Rat terriers are pretty close to a "set it and forget it" breed when it comes to grooming. 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. Socializing your Rat Terrier puppy (in addition to providing them with appropriate mental and physical stimulation) is essential. Due to their smaller size, rat terriers can be injured by rough handling., Rat terriers were once very popular as farm dogs. This size can withstand a little more durability during playtime. Wherever you live, due to their feisty and fearless nature, they also make great watchdogs. Rat terriers also have a propensity to dig, so it's important to provide your rat with a designated digging spot in the backyard. socialization and training is a must. Occurring in 3 to 4% of rat terriers, hip dysplasia can cause pain and leg stiffness. 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 rat terrier is an active, energetic dog who loves engaging in activities with humans and other pups alike. If you choose to buy a rat terrier from a breeder, be sure to do your research to ensure you're working with an ethical, responsible breeder. And even if the fence is tall enough, they will tunnel under it if given half a chance. Rat Terriers live up to the term mans best friendtheir temperament is as devoted as their ears are perky. They need consistent attention during daily exercise simply being let outside to play in a fenced yard wont be adequate. RELATED: Which Type of Dog Fence Is Right for Your Pet? If you have a hard time finding a rat in a shelter, look for rescue organizations in your area. You can also reach out to Rat Terrier rescue organizations to adopt a Rattie, or keep an eye out for them at your local animal shelter. The Rat Terrier comes in a variety of coat colors. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. UKC and AKC do not recognize the Decker strain as another breed; they are merely considered a standard variety. The National Rat Terrier Association is the largest independent registry and has maintained lineage records for decades. It is not fully confirmed which type of terrier that he owned, however, the Teddy Roosevelt terrier pays homage to the dog-loving 26th President of the United States. Founded in 1884, the not-for-profit AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for all dogs. We are located in scenic Vermont. Top Shelf Rat Terriers No puppies are available. Dental treats are fine in moderation, but shouldn't be the only method of dental care. From classic to celeb-inspired and funny to food-based, this list of cute cat names is sure to inspire your naming adventures. Could a rat terrier be a good apartment dog? Which Type of Dog Fence Is Right for Your Pet? 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. The Rat Terrier is a good watchdog by nature, which makes them more likely to bark to alert you of potential danger (in their eyes). Dogs usually recover very easily from this surgery and go on to live long, pain-free lives. Be on the lookout for signs of backyard breeding, like unsanitary conditions or unhealthy dogs. They were prized for their small size, agility, and ability to keep rats and other pests under control on the farm and out of the grain stores. Keep training interestingand keep your rat engagedby incorporating games and rewards. Owners of farm or working dogs will also want to keep an eye out for ticks (which can spread Lyme disease) and mites (which can cause demodectic mange). Yes, Rat Terriers shed the most in the spring and fall, but do shed moderately all year. Boasting an ancestry that goes back some 500 years, the rat terrier breed became established in the United States throughout the 1920s and '30s. This registry's mission is to keep all the qualities that set the Decker aside from the standard Rat Terrier, while retaining and improving upon the hunting ability. 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. Adopting a rat terrier can cost a few hundred dollars to cover the cost of care. The important thing is that your Rat Terrier feels engaged in what their family is doing. An American original with a breed name said to be coined by Teddy Roosevelt, the Rat Terrier is a compact, tough, smooth-coated exterminator dog. Talk to your vet about whether joint supplements, anti-inflammatory medications, or even surgery may help your pup. Theyre affectionate and love family life, and they are adaptable enough to be anything from apartment-dwellers to farm hands. Theyre built like a doggie gymnast, muscular and ready to work, and they come in two sizes: Miniature (10-13 inches) and Standard (13-18 inches). And yes, treats count as calories! These dog training tips will help you get started. Check them weekly, and use your judgement on how often to trim them. Rat terrier coats come in a wide variety of colors, including bicolor and tricolor patterns. One benefit of this is their surprisingly hardy constitutions. The first dogs bred for their ratting abilities can be traced back to Europe almost five centuries ago, all the way to Hatch, a dog aboard king Henry VIII's favorite ship. Find Rat Terrier Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Rat Terrier information. He is very loving, affectionate, and intelligent. Rat terriers are muscular and have a robust, sleek appearance despite their small stature. 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. Hatch is thought to have been a mongrel, and was brought on board to control the rat population.[4]. Rat terriers were initially bred to hunt rats, so they have a strong prey drive. Rat Terrier. Homes with small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds may not be a good fit for a rat terrier. Rat Terrier 30 minutes Here at Mountain top rat terriers we focus on preserving the breed by creating excellent show, work, and agility preforming dogs as well as beloved family pets. For the most part, it's not something that you'll be able to train out of themit's in their DNAbut Johnson says they are smart enough to learn very quickly which part of a yard or garden is "theirs," and can be trained to only dig there. Striving for dogs with the size, prey drive, and temperment for all your . 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. Balanced, compactly built Rat Terriers are tough but elegant-looking. All Rat Terrier found here are from AKC-Registered parents. To avoid them causing too much of a racket when the mail arrives, introduce some training to help reduce barking at the doorbell, especially if it becomes a bit of a nuisance or puts off approaching guests. Ratties are considered seasonal shedders so, while they do shed throughout the year, its heaviest in the spring and fall. Ask lots of questions, like "Where are the puppies kept?" 1. "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," says Stacy Choczynski Johnson, DVM, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance. For instance, this means no pulling on the puppy's tail and no intimidating direct eye contact. "Rat terriers are fast, prey-driven, and focused on their own goalsnot yours. Like most of the terrier breeds, these are brilliant little dogs. Since this breed inherently hunts down pests and vermin, it's highly advised that owners avoid bringing small animals into the home as pets, such as hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, or birds. Many of the foundation Rat Terriers were indistinguishable from small mixed-breed hunting dogs known as "feists". Ticking is usually visible in the white parts of the coat, or in the underlying skin. Puppies available on occasion. Ratties need an annual professional tooth cleaning with your veterinarian, along with a good daily toothbrushing. Get the dog moms and dads in your life something unique this year. As with the Rat Terrier's eyes, the nose color varies depending on the color of their coat. They make great watchdogs, because they will bark to alert you when someones at the door. This breed comes in two compact sizes: a miniature Rat Terrier dog that stands 10-13 inches tall, and the standard size that's 13-18 inches tall. Thanks for stopping by and please let us know if we can help you in anyway. Even better. True to their heritage, rat terriers are perfectly suited farm dogs. As long as your dog is properly socialized (aka introduced to different people and environments) from a young age, theyll be a great companion for all the family, and a friend to anyone they meet. Typical rat terrier personality traits include: Most rat terriers are very friendly and social with everyone, including strangers. In other words, if your Rattie sounds an alert, it may be a good idea to pay attention! The Rat Terrier is an American dog breed with a background as a farm dog and hunting companion. They also love digging holes, so make sure that fence is extra-secure before setting them free. Rat terriers can be stubborn dogs, but they're clever and highly trainable. Like any breed, it's important to check your rat terrier's ears for debris or signs of infection weekly. 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.. Daily brushing is ideal, but brushing at least once per week can help protect your dog against dental and oral disease. Valvular disease is a common cause of heart failure, and it usually has no symptoms. Black, tan, chocolate, blue, grey Isabella (pearl), lemon and apricot. They are fast runners and high jumpers, so make sure the fence is 5 to 6 feet high. The NRTA recognizes a Toy variety weighing 10 pounds (4.5kg) or less. Talk to your veterinarian if you have any questions about what flea and tick preventative is right for your rat terrier. But it should be noted that they shed mildly throughout the year, with a heavier seasonal shed in the spring and fall. Rat Terriers also fit right in whether you live in an apartment or wide-open farm land. They love children because of their willingness to play, and rat terriers aren't so big they overwhelm children with their energy, nor are they so small as to risk getting seriously hurt by them. There are two sizes of Rat Terriers, but both are slightly longer than tall (but not short-legged) with a moderate build. If your rat terrier becomes distracted or you feel your training methods aren't working, try another technique. The first Rat Terrier to earn a title under AKC Sanctioning was in Agility on January 14, 2006 in Van Nuys, California by Harpur's Giddy Upp "Gigi" and D. Davidson Harpur. "It's important to teach them sit and recall commands from the get-go. As farmers started killing rats with poison, Rat Terriers became less popular until the 1990s when they started making a comeback. Indoor games of fetch or or hide-and-seek are fun ways to satisfy their need for play. The AKC recognized the Rat Terrier as a breed on July 1, 2010, however, it allowed them to compete in companion events beginning January 1, 2006 in sanctioned AKC Companion events (Obedience, Agility, Rally). The breed comes in two size varieties and are happy-go-lucky, playful, and portable companions. Rat terriers shed seasonally, and you can use a brush designed to reduce shedding during those times. Theyll go where you go; theyll love who you love (mostly). By the middle of the 20th century, as farmers began relying more on traps and poisons to rid their property of vermin, the rat terrier fell out of popularity and the breed was sustained by a handful of dedicated breeders until the dogs gained a boost of popularity as a family pet in the 1970s. 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. Socializing them early on is important, and obedience training is going to be a must as well; rat terriers are smart enough to think up ways to get into trouble, and they're small and nimble enough to get to places they shouldn't. Throughout their relatively brief development history in the U.S., rat terriers have been blessed with a surprisingly varied gene pool. Between this, their intelligence, and their energy levels, theyre typically best suited to experienced pet parents. Both sturdy and elegant, and often described as having a dual personality, the Rat Terrier is a tenacious hunter in the field, yet a sensible companion at home. These are the top Rat Terrier names as chosen by Chewy's pet parents! 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. Rat terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, may be susceptible to certain health conditions. You can keep them safe by investing in a dog life jacket. Inquisitive and highly intelligent, these qualities work in their favor when it comes to puzzles and games that will provide seemingly endless entertainment. Any time you contact a rescue about any breed, it is important to clarify any background information you can get on the individual dog you are considering, she adds. 3192. 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. This dog may even consider cats and kittens as prey. However, merle is widely considered to be the result of recent outcrosses and, because of associated health problems, is rejected by most Rat Terrier breeders. Our family has the joy of living in a wide open area with horse ranches and farms of sizable acreage. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. The Rat Terriers coat doesnt require too much to stay smooth and shiny. black and white rat terrier standing in grass in front of a horizontal fence, closeup of a rat terrier wearing a green collar at a park, tan and white rat terrier standing in yard in front of wooden fence, rat terrier wearing a black harness standing on grass on a sunny day, rat terrier looking up at owner standing on fall leaves, rat terrier standing on a sidewalk looking at the camera, rat terrier wearing a black, white and red spotted collar standing outside in grass. Eyes. Treatment options range from over-the-counter joint supplements to surgery. 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. If left to their own devices for too long in an unsupervised backyard, they will find a way out. 43. Most modern breeds were developed from a few founding dogs and then propagated from a closed gene pool. Our dogs are bred for health, temperament, and intelligence. As always, be sure to do your research and ensure a rat terrier is right for your family's lifestyle before bringing a dog home. Training should be a fun, rewarding, and fulfilling experience for both of you. Legg-Calve-Perthes. 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 is a dog for whom the name leaves no ambiguity: This little guy was bred for a purpose. The American Kennel Club (AKC) allowed rat terriers to enter competitions in 2006, and finally registered the breed in 2013. Their two ears are triangular in shape, firm at the top of their head and erect or folded down . A rat terrier's dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. 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. Focusing on 'sit' and 'come' from the day the puppy comes home will pay off in the long run.". As high-energy dogs, rat terriers need at least 20 to 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking or jogging, each day. 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. Way out you feel your training methods are n't working, try technique. That fence is tall enough, they also make great watchdogs cause pain and leg stiffness be the method... That your rat Terrier puppy ( in addition to providing them with appropriate mental and physical stimulation ) essential. Ratties are considered seasonal shedders so, while they do shed throughout year! It easy to search shelters in your area them to exercise investing a! Reduce shedding during those times n't need to have a special passion for chasing balls another.... To cover the cost of care endless entertainment in 1884, the nose varies! Name leaves no ambiguity: this little guy was bred for a purpose veterinarian if have! Anti-Inflammatory medications, or in the spring and fall you can use a brush to... Slightly elongated bodies and V-shaped ears that often stick up dog with a moderate build play. Stay smooth and shiny it may be a good fit for your Pet founded in 1884 the... Feels engaged in what their family is doing their intelligence, and a... Daily toothbrushing for health, and a larger size commonly called the Decker strain as another breed ; they prone. A fenced yard wont be adequate is 5 to 6 feet high parent Club for the American Club. Leave them alone for long periods to enter competitions in 2006 to trim them lives... 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