Description

The Rat Terrier is a well-muscled dog with a deep chest, strong shoulders, solid neck, and powerful legs. Their bodies are compact but meaty. The ears can be upright or tipped and are carried erect when the dog is alert. They can be born with short or full length tails, each being left in its natural state or docked at two days of age. The coat colors include, pearls, sables, chocolates, red and white, tri-spotted, solid red, black & tan, blue & white and red brindle. Breeders concerned with working dogs are not as fussy about the specifics of the looks.

Origin

Named by the perceptive Teddy Roosevelt, the Rat Terriers were tan. Life Magazine showed President Roosevelt with three black and tan increased bulk, trailing and hunting ability, along with the red color. Whippet contributed the speed and agility and probably the blue and best in the rat-baiting pits. One Rat Terrier is reported to have killed over 2,501 rats in a span of only seven hours in a rat infested barn. The Rat Terrier is a hard-working farm hand, able to rid an infested barn of vermin with no problem.

Temperament

The Rat Terrier is an intelligent, alert and loving dog. Very inquisitive and lively. This affectionate dog makes an excellent companion for those who will enjoy an energetic dog. They are good with children, especially if they are raised with them from puppyhood. They are fairly territorial, and for the most part friendly with strangers. Rat Terriers make good watchdogs. These dogs are quick and very playful and are not yappers. The temperament of these dogs is pure terrier. The lively, feisty, fearless nature can be found in the best of terriers. They are eager to please and respond and pick training up faster than most dogs. The Rat terrier is a very well mannered, well rounded dog. They are easy to train and very eager to learn and to please their owner. They love to go with you and to do what you do. They are also very good swimmers, not bashful or afraid and have no problem with the water. They make good farm dogs as well as excellent family dogs for pets and companionship. This hardy dog is used for hunting expeditions as well as terrier work. They are easy adjusted as mature dogs into families with or without children.

Height

Height: Males 27-28 inches (66-75 cm.) Females 25-28 inches (64 - 70

Weight

Weight: Small 4-7 pounds (1.8-3.2 kg.)

Known Health Problems

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Conditions for Living

Rat Terriers will do ok in an apartment so long as they get at least should have at least a small to medium sized yard. Rat Terriers love to dig, and they can get out of a fenced yard relatively easily. Provided they have the proper protection, they are able to spend a good amount of time outdoors. They love to be inside the house and outside to play.

Exercise Requirments

The Rat Terrier needs a good amount exercise. This breed needs to be minutes a day, but would enjoy much more. The breed enjoys challenging games and outdoor romps.

Life Expectancy

About 15-18 years.

Grooming

The Rat Terrier is easy to groom. An occasional combing and brushing to remove dead hair is all it needs.

Group

Terrier