Quick Info
The appearance of a rat hound
Rat Terriers are small, compact, muscular and somewhat muscular (showing their hardiness and strength). They have a small head, a moderately long snout, a black nose, and raised ears. They have strong necks and shoulders, deep chests, and strong legs. Their tails can be long or short at birth. The Rat Terrier has a short, medium-thick coat in red, yellow, black, black & tan, black tan & white, and blue & white. In general, Rat Terriers have a tough, alert and outgoing appearance.
Characteristic
- Small
- Tough and fearless
- Reliable
- Love
- Great rattle
- Easy training
Man’s ideal companion
- Single person
- Types of sports, active
- Farmers and ranchers
- Hikers
- Families
What do they want to live with?
Whether you are a high-energy person or need a companion to help you get around, the Rat Terrier can be the perfect companion. They have enough intelligence and energy for three dogs, but their diverse genetic background helps them maintain a balanced body. In other words, Rat Terriers aren’t the type of dog that likes to jump off walls — in fact, they’re happy to cuddle up on the couch.
If you spend a lot of time outdoors – whether for work or pleasure – your Rat Terrier will always follow, proving you are an excellent worker and dedicated friend. Easy to train and eager to please, Rat Terriers can help out on the farm, in the field, or out in the yard. And if you have a mouse problem, they can be surprisingly helpful. Or if you just need a hiking or running companion, they can do it too — happily.
Rat Terriers are fun and loving playmates for children. They have a light-hearted, cheerful personality and they know when to adjust their energy levels. Their hardy snake instincts can make them a bit territorial, but in general they are good with strangers. However, they have noses when they detect intruders – they will bark and alert the family if they sense a threat.
Things you should know
The Rat Terrier needs at least 30 minutes of exercise each day, whether walking, jogging through the neighborhood, or hiking in the park. As intelligent working dogs, they also enjoy constructive games and tasks to keep their minds sharp. They will be happy living in an apartment as long as their daily exercise requirements are met. Rat Terriers may be high-energy dogs, but they appreciate cozy time indoors.
A healthy Rat Terrier can live up to 18 years. These are healthy, solid little dogs for the most part, but some can develop hip dysplasia and allergy problems. Their short coat makes them easy to manage. Just brush them every few days.
History of Rat Terrier
The American Rat Terrier is a cross between the Fox Terrier and a long list of European Terriers including the Manchester Terrier and the Bull Terrier. To prevent a rabbit epidemic that threatened crops in 1910, farmers increased the speed and agility of these dogs by crossing them with Whippets, Italian Hounds, and Smooth Fox Terriers. Meanwhile, in other parts of the country, hunters crossed the original Rat Terriers with Beagles to improve their tracking. Although popular in the 1920s and 1930s, agricultural modernization created little demand for the Rat Terrier. Today, Rat Terrier clubs grapple with the true lineage of the modern breed. However, most of them agree that the Rat Terrier’s diverse genetic background is what allows them to maintain a healthy, adaptable and intelligent breed.
