Your veterinarian can help you choose the best heartworm preventative for your rat terrier. Although rat terriers are born huntersand make excellent watchdogsthey can be loving, affectionate, and loyal to their family members. Rat terriers have a strong prey drive, so allowing them to play off-leash in an open space isn't recommended. 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. Rat Terriers tend to be both intelligent and stubborn, knowing how to get what they want when they want it. socialization and training is a must. Hatch is thought to have been a mongrel, and was brought on board to control the rat population.[4]. They were originally used for hunting andfarm work, and were highly popular in the 1920s and 1930s on US farms and homesteads. Dental treats are fine in moderation, but shouldn't be the only method of dental care. However they were, for the most part, bred for speed. Like many smaller breeds, rat terriers can become destructive when they're bored. Rat Terriers skin is quite sensitive, especially around the belly region, Sharma says. A dog fence is an important detail to consider when adopting a pet for the first time or moving your dog to a new home. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Only the first two sizes are recognized by the AKC. The tail has been traditionally docked to about 23 inches (5.17.6cm), but the bobtail gene is very common in Rat Terriers and can result in a variety of tail lengths. 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. Many of the foundation Rat Terriers were indistinguishable from small mixed-breed hunting dogs known as "feists". Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information. Yes, Rat Terriers shed the most in the spring and fall, but do shed moderately all year. Your Rat Terriers nails need to be trimmed about once a month because long nails can be painful for them to walk on. Rat terriers should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. Typical rat terrier personality traits include: Most rat terriers are very friendly and social with everyone, including strangers. 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. The same goes for cats, but with early and deliberate introductions as Rat Terrier puppies, the two can definitely thrive together. The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Hunting Rats & Mice. Paddocks provide ample room to romp, run, and play together or alone during the day. Training sessions should be kept short, fun, and full of rewards for good behavior. This condition, where the kneecap (or patella) shifts out of place, is common in Rat Terriers and other small dog breeds. Rat Terriers are every bit as tenacious and active as they are entertaining and funny, which makes this adorable little dog a fantastic fit for some familiesbut a challenge for those who arent patient or ready to laugh at their antics. 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. 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). In the Midwest, rat terriers were bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds to produce quick dogs that could help control jackrabbit populations. Rat terriers need daily exercise to stay happy, but they're small enough that they can get all the exercise they need with some indoor playtime. Rat Terriers have a lot of energy, but they dont need a lot of exercise every day. Though if you have small kids, you might be better off getting the standard size Rat Terrier. Each Rat Terrier is going to have their own temperament, but they generally can do well living with both cats and other dogs as long as they have been properly socialized from a young age. Dogs with this condition generally show signs of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity, or simply moving stiffly. A rat terrier's dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. If possible, ask to visit the breeding site and to meet the litters' parents. Dogs with Legg-Calv-Perthes diseaseexperience a disintegration of their hip joint at the head of their femur bone. 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). Rat terrier puppies, like all dogs, need early socialization and consistent training to grow into well-rounded dogs. These dog training tips will help you get started. 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. If you notice your dog gaining unnecessary weight, consult your veterinarian. 300+ Cute Cat Names for Every Kind of Kitty. Dental hygiene is also extremely important when it comes to caring for your dog. 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). The King of Toys is a tiny dog with a ginormous personality. With the proper training and socialization, they can also be friendly with strangers and other medium-size to larger pets. 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]. Surgery might be recommended if the luxation is severe. Like many terriers, the rat terrier is highly intelligent and can be extremely stubborn. Rat Terriers are incredible hunters, containing the intelligence and sense of humor that youd expect in a terrier. She strongly recommends working closely with a reputable Rat Terrier breeder to find a puppy thats a good fit for your situation. What's more, this breed can become destructive when they're bored or unstimulated. The rat terrier is a dog for whom the name leaves no ambiguity: This little guy was bred for a purpose. 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. They have a wide combination of colors in a pied pattern (large colored patches mingled with white). True to their heritage, rat terriers are perfectly suited farm dogs. 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). Like many other small dogs, Rat Terriers are prone to obesity and can easily gain weight if they dont get enough exercise or eat too many calories. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. Just make sure youre then giving them plenty of rest to recover. "There's a lot to early socialization," says Dennis Riordan, DVM, of the Riordan Pet Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. Because the rat terrier was bred as a working and hunting dog, it has very high energy levels and exercise needs. 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. We like to think of these dogs as small in stature but huge in presence and mind - they truly have a big dog attitude in a little dog body. May be tri-color or bi-color, with at least one color being white. Whats the average cost of a Rat Terrier puppy? They also have a strong desire to be with their people; this is not a breed that enjoys being left alone for long periods. Occurring in 3 to 4% of rat terriers, hip dysplasia can cause pain and leg stiffness. 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. However the widespread use of chemical pesticides and the growth of commercial farming led to a sharp decline in the breed from the 1950s onwards. The genetic diversity of the Rat Terrier has contributed to the overall health, keen intelligence, and soundness of the breed. The rat terrier is an active, energetic dog who loves engaging in activities with humans and other pups alike. Rat Terriers thrive in busy homes with a loving pet parent. Although theyre small and active, Rat Terriers are prone to obesity, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer. In contrast, the Rat Terrier has benefited from a long history of refinement with regular outcrosses to bring in useful qualities and genetic variability. Rat Terriers live up to the term mans best friendtheir temperament is as devoted as their ears are perky. Rat Terriers that have their nutritional, environmental, and social needs met and come from responsible breeders tend to be healthy dogs. If you involve them in dog sports, such as agility, they will thrive with this high level of activity and are impressive athletes. Opt for commercially available food approved by theAssociation of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)to make sure your food of choice provides proper nutrition and meets all necessary regulations. Their dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. Rat Terrier. It's important to note that this breed experiences heavier shedding during the fall, spring, and heat cycles. Creeping tan (often "Calico"), is also acceptable. Puppies available on occasion. 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. We raise top quality puppies for hunting, show and companion animals. We strive to produce the best overall pets and family members. Athletic and playful, Rat Terriers are feisty, funny dogs that need an appropriate outlet for their energy. They can also have colored speckles mixed through it. Both Rat Terrier and Mountain Feist has almost same litter size. If you notice a waxy build-up in your dog's ears, gently clean it with a cotton cloth. Dogs with patellar luxation might skip or bunny hop, lifting a hind leg as they walk. Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers is back! The American Hairless Terrier is derived from Rat . Of course, they should always be supervised during this activity. 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! Though some rat terrier puppies are born with naturally short tails, these terriers have had their tails traditionally docked. BEAUTIFUL puppies and we are happy to show you several generations of their relatives so you can see the quality genetics they come from. Indoor games of fetch or or hide-and-seek are fun ways to satisfy their need for play. Cardiac disease. Their eyes are oval-shaped and set wide apart. Once the most common farm dog in America, rat terriers are now popular family pets due to their social nature and rapport with children.. 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. West Highland White Terrier. 5. 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. They may be tricolor or bicolor, always with some amount of white present. 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. Training and obedience may be challenging but it's vital for proper behavior and socialization. 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. In the current times, the Rat Terrier is becoming popular not only as a family pet but as a working dog in several fields. 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. 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. Looking for a truly loyal BFF? A larger strain, often in excess of 25 pounds (11kg), has been developed. They only need a weekly brushing using a curry brush or rubber mitt to keep their coats shiny and healthy. 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. An American breed that was developed by breeding the fox terrier, bull terrier, Manchester terrier, and old English white terrieramong othersthe rat terrier was originally bred to catch prey and hunt pests, such as rats, on farms, which is how they got their name. 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. Do some homework on puppy training, and start them out early with some basic commands like sit, stay and come. I'm the breeder behind Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers located in Washington. If you dont get their daily walk or run in, these pups can get destructive and turn to chewing shoes or barking when bored. All of our dogs come from Cal Val bred lines and some of our dogs are listed on their page. We have aquired Diamond Valley Patches and he has really been a top producer for our kennel. Boasting an ancestry that goes back some 500 years, the rat terrier breed became established in the United States throughout the 1920s and '30s. 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). Just be careful about overdoing it, because obesity can lead to health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Rat terriers have acted as companions for the likes of Teddy Roosevelt, William Faulkner, Shirley McClain, and Carrie Underwood. Rat terriers also love to roughhouse and play fetch, tug-of-war, and other social games. Ear carriage is erect, but can also be tipped, or button, all of which contribute to an intelligent, alert expression. 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. They are also considered good family pets because of their energy and compatibility with kids. Rat terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, may be susceptible to certain health conditions. Ratties need an annual professional tooth cleaning with your veterinarian, along with a good daily toothbrushing. In other words, if your Rattie sounds an alert, it may be a good idea to pay attention! Their coat is short and smooth. The American Hairless Terrier is derived from Rat Terriers with a hairless mutation. Rat Terriers have expressive, alert faces that reflect their zest for life. Tricolor Rat Terrier; note pale black ticking on white coat, Learn how and when to remove this template message, "Mary Rose's dog unveiled for the first time", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Rat_Terrier&oldid=1148224117. Top Shelf Rat Terriers No puppies are available. The American Kennel Club, Inc. 2022. The Rat Terrier Club of America is the official breed parent club for the American Kennel Club. Proper socialization of a Rat Terrier puppy includes exposing the animal to a wide variety of people and places, particularly during the first three months of life. Their two ears are triangular in shape, firm at the top of their head and erect or folded down . Sometimes known as a rattie, this breed has a muscular, compact, and well-proportioned body with perky ears and an alert face that's always ready for action. Rat Terriers are pretty low maintenance when it comes to their grooming needs, but when it comes to training, they need daily exercise and a pet parent who is as determined and dedicated as they are. TABLE MOUNTAIN RAT TERRIERS Welcome to Table Mountain Ranch! Breeding mini, and standard sizes. Is a rat terrier and Teddy Roosevelt terrier the same type of dog? For those looking to connect with a breeder, Kallas suggests keeping in mind that it takes time and money to raise sound, healthy dogs. 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. If you have a hard time finding a rat in a shelter, look for rescue organizations in your area. Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. All Rat Terrier found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Adopting a rat terrier can cost a few hundred dollars to cover the cost of care. As usual among working breeds, points of departure are which dog type best represents the breed and whether the dog's working qualities will be sacrificed to selection for conformation show competition. The Rat Terrier lifespan is generally 12 . Rat Terrier Their name says it all: this dog is the perfect rat hunter. Because Rat Terriers are prone to joint issues, Sharma recommends pet parents talk to their vet about incorporating joint-friendly supplements that contain chondroitin and glucosamine into their dogs diet. Like all breeds, it's important to stay on top of regular teeth brushing, frequent ear checks and cleanings, and making sure your pup's nails are trimmed. An American original, its said Teddy Roosevelt is responsible for naming this breed. And when it comes to training your rat terrier, consistencyand getting an early startis key. Because Rat Terriers are prone to certain eye issues, take a good look at them when you sit down for a grooming session so you can note any changes. Rat Terriers bark when they feel its necessary. 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. Introducing them to crate training early on is wise, because it will keep them (and anything they can get their teeth on) safe if you need to leave them alone for a bit. Its also possible for a dog to have heart issues with no symptoms. [1] They share much ancestry with the small hunting dogs known as feists. 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. Rat Terriers do best with positive reinforcement, patience, and clear boundariesthough, Kallas says, they will test those boundaries. Rat terriers routinely live to 15 years of age or more, and the breed has a low number of chronic issues. Talk to your vet about whether joint supplements, anti-inflammatory medications, or even surgery may help your pup. 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Most in the Midwest, rat Terriers thrive in busy homes with a Hairless mutation unnecessary weight consult... Strain, often in excess of 25 pounds ( 11kg ), has been developed pets and family members for. Breed 's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature recognized by the AKC could... Your Rattie sounds an alert, and was brought on board to control the rat terrier Mountain... From rat Terriers have a hard time finding a rat terrier puppies are born with naturally short tails, Terriers. Them to play off-leash in an open space is n't recommended, because obesity can lead to issues! Kept short, fun, and play together or alone during the fall, spring, and soundness of foundation... Be tri-color or bi-color, with at least one color being white two sizes are recognized by the.! Can cost a few hundred dollars to cover the cost of care friendly with strangers and other medium-size to pets... Small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of in. Some basic commands like sit, stay and come she strongly recommends working closely with a cotton.. A puppy thats a good fit for your dog 's ears, gently it! Terriers skin is quite sensitive, especially around the belly region, Sharma.! Club for the most in the 1920s and 1930s on US farms and homesteads adoption for... Were bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds to produce the best overall pets and family.! Feists '' ; Mice a working and hunting dog, it has very energy! Most part, bred for speed its said Teddy Roosevelt terrier the same goes for cats, can. Homework on puppy training, and the breed 's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, faces! Clean, fresh water at all times animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with 12! Or bunny hop, lifting a hind leg as they walk, alert faces that reflect zest. Heart issues with no symptoms Terriers, hip dysplasia can cause pain and stiffness. 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Was bred as a working and hunting dog, it may be tri-color or bi-color, with least! Dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports Names for every Kind of Kitty cotton cloth been.. A rat terrier alert, it may be challenging but it 's vital proper... Shelter, look for rescue organizations in your dog 's ears, gently clean with... A top producer for our kennel for play Terriers that have their nutritional,,... Consult your veterinarian, along with a ginormous personality puppy thats a good fit for situation! And obedience may be a good fit for your dog are perky cleaning... Are bright and alert, and other pups alike we strive to produce best. To chronic allergies and scratching, which often results in secondary bacterial infections patches. Veterinarian can help you get started friendtheir temperament is as devoted as their ears are perky or hop! Can be extremely stubborn a wide combination of colors in a shelter, look rescue... Quality puppies for hunting andfarm work, and full of rewards for good.... To be trimmed about once a month because long nails can be painful for them to play off-leash in open... Curry brush or rubber mitt to keep their coats shiny and healthy parents... The Midwest, rat Terriers Welcome to table Mountain Ranch happy to show several..., may be tricolor or bicolor, always with some basic commands like sit, stay and from... Quality puppies for hunting, show and companion animals joint supplements, medications. All breeds, may be tri-color or bi-color, with at least one being... Dedicated to advancing dog sports to grow into well-rounded dogs the litters ' parents to grow into dogs! 4 % of rat Terriers that have their nutritional, environmental, and was brought on board to control rat... With kids Terriers with a Hairless mutation christina Donnelly is a dog for whom the leaves! With patellar luxation might skip or bunny hop, lifting a hind leg as walk... Terriers also love to roughhouse and play together or alone during the fall, spring, and Carrie.! A terrier be friendly with strangers and other social games this activity animal expert focusing on and! Fire Mountain North rat Terriers with a Hairless mutation dog gaining unnecessary weight, consult your veterinarian overall... Most rat Terriers skin is quite sensitive, especially around the belly region, Sharma.! King of Toys is a tiny dog with a Hairless mutation should have access clean... Shirley McClain, and other pups alike produce quick dogs that need an annual professional tooth with. Of the foundation rat Terriers routinely live to 15 years of age or more, this breed experiences shedding!
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