After a period of development this line resulted in the American Hairless Terrier, recognized as a separate breed by several registries. 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. Grooming, however, is generally a cinch thanks to their slick, tight coatbut be aware that they do still shed. Got a lot of love to go around? They also have a slender build similar to the Russell and an alert, intelligent face. Which Type of Dog Fence Is Right for Your Pet? True to their heritage, rat terriers are perfectly suited farm dogs. The color ranges from dark brown to hazel, and sometimes gray, usually corresponding with the color of their coat. A little about me, and the dogs I have been blessed to have in my life. The Mountain Terrier is a small breed terrier generally measuring no more than 18 inches in height and weighing under 30 pounds in weight. 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. Rat Terriers originated in the United States from early terrier-type dogs, that came over from Europe with their British migrant owners in the 1800's. They were originally used for hunting and farm work, and were highly popular in the 1920s and 1930s on US farms and homesteads. Purebred dogs often need rescuing, too. If possible, ask to visit the breeding site and to meet the litters' parents. They were bred from at least seven different breeds of dogs to create the best possible pest catcher, helping to eliminate rats, rabbits, moles, and other farm pests. 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. [1] They share much ancestry with the small hunting dogs known as feists. They are sturdy and compact little dog but also elegant. 5. Another tip: When bathing your Rat Terrier, Sharma says to take care to prevent shampoo and water from getting into their eyes. Rat Terriers today have evolved into a small to medium dog, and enjoy awide genetic diversity leading to the breed's overall robust health, with few inherited genetic issues, keen intelligence, amazing athleticism, and strong trainability. Would this breed be a good choice for a first-time dog owner? The only treatment is surgery. Often mistaken for Russell terriers, rat terriers are small, adorable little dogs with intelligent eyes and a keen mind. Rat Terriers, especially as they age, can develop heart disease. Known also as the American Rat Terrier or even as the Rattie, this American dog breed is a farm dog, common on family farms during the 1920's and 1930's. If left to their own devices for too long in an unsupervised backyard, they will find a way out. Ask lots of questions, like "Where are the puppies kept?" They take to training incredibly well and pick up on tasks quickly, but will also show a propensity to be willful. The color ranges from dark brown to hazel, and sometimes gray, usually corresponding with the color of their coat. Rat Terriers love the water and enjoy swimming. Ratties might need a bath now and then, Kallas says, but thats mostly only if they begin to smell. 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. Though some rat terrier puppies are born with naturally short tails, these terriers have had their tails traditionally docked. The standard Rat Terrier is 13-18 inches and a miniature is usually 10-13 inches tall. They are active animals who will be happiest with a backyard to run around in and a place to dig a little, but their compact size also means they can get their exercise indoors, making them well suited for seniors and urban settings. Take our short quiz to find out! Ear carriage is erect, but can also be tipped, or button, all of which contribute to an intelligent, alert expression. "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. 16: Bantles Cty X Kennels: 0 1 We are building a small breeding program Dedicated to the Decker Rat Terrier. The RTCA offers this list as a service to people looking for Rat Terrier Puppies or for contacts for Breed information. Rat terriers have slightly elongated bodies and V-shaped ears that often stick up. Our family has the joy of living in a wide open area with horse ranches and farms of sizable acreage. However, there are a few potential health issues for which the national breed club recommends testing. It's important to note that this breed experiences heavier shedding during the fall, spring, and heat cycles. 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. Balanced, compactly built Rat Terriers are tough but elegant-looking. Rat terriers were initially bred to hunt rats, so they have a strong prey drive. The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Hunting Rats & Mice. What's more, this breed can become destructive when they're bored or unstimulated. The Top 10 Rat-Hunting Dogs Rat Terrier Cairn Terrier Yorkshire Terrier Norfolk Terrier Jack Russell Terrier West Highland White Terrier Dachshund Miniature Schnauzer Lakeland Terrier German Pinscher Rat Terrier via Wikimedia Commons 1. As the use of poisons and mechanical traps became more widespread, the rat terrier's usage on farms began to dwindle, and people began to realize the bright, friendly dog made an excellent house companion as well. Rat terriers are very intelligent and like to dig, so if they have access to a yard, it needs secure fencing to keep them from escaping. Between this, their intelligence, and their energy levels, theyre typically best suited to experienced pet parents. There is some confusion between the rat terrier and Teddy terrier breeds. Digging, chewing on furniture, and excessive barking are all rat terrier characteristics that signal a need for more attention. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. Rat Terrier . As much as they love their family, this breed was bred to hunt verminand their natural prey drive reflects that, so early (and consistent!) [Breeders] do their job for the first eight weeks, and its your job to work on that for at least the next year. They are playful and require much exercise. Rat Terriers are incredible hunters, containing the intelligence and sense of humor that youd expect in a terrier. 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. 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. In contrast, the Rat Terrier has benefited from a long history of refinement with regular outcrosses to bring in useful qualities and genetic variability. 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). Most of those dogs were mixed breeds who individually showed an aptitude for vermin hunting. 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. 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. 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. UKC is a family-friendly group that promotes many different venues for dogs to compete. This size can withstand a little more durability during playtime. But it should be noted that they shed mildly throughout the year, with a heavier seasonal shed in the spring and fall. 3192. Aside from doing your best to keep water out of your Rat Terriers ears, theres not much in the way of special ear care required. There are two size divisions:. Jodi Jacobson/iStock/Getty Images Plus/Getty Images. 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. The Rat Terrier breed typically does well on high-quality commercial dog food. Celebrating their 15th birthday is quite common for this hardy little breed. UKC and AKC do not recognize the Decker strain as another breed; they are merely considered a standard variety. Their affectionate and calm temperament along with small size has made them popular as service dogs in hospice, treatment for depression, in Assisted Living, and other human-care jobs. You can keep them safe by investing in a dog life jacket. As members of the terrier group, Rat Terriers can have a propensity to dig, particularly if they arent receiving enough attention. health issues for which the national breed club recommends testing, Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), bathe them more frequently than once a month. Colors: black tri, chocolate tri, blue tri, apricot, and pearls. Although rat terriers are born huntersand make excellent watchdogsthey can be loving, affectionate, and loyal to their family members. History. Depending on the breeder, expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,100 for a Rattie pup. Training sessions should be kept short, fun, and full of rewards for good behavior. (Spoiler: Thats a lot.) Rat terriers should have access to clean, fresh water at all times. As with any dog, supervision with children is recommended. Free-feeding, or leaving food out all the time, is not recommended; this can easily cause them to become overweight or obese. West Highland White Terrier. Training should be a fun, rewarding, and fulfilling experience for both of you. If youre interested in Rat Terrier adoption, Kallas says there are several national rescue groups that do excellent work for the breedand because they all work a bit differently, its wise to chat with each of them to see which one might work best for your family. They originated on American farms, where these little dogs were perfect for exterminating the vermin that could potentially wreak havoc on stored food needed for survival. Daily Paws is part of the Meredith National Digital Network. An experienced dog owner will know how to be firm but loving with a pet, which is what a rattie needs from an owner. 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. Warren Mountain Rat Terriers Warren Mtn Rat Terriers~ Raising Mini & Small Standard Rat Terriers since 2003. 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. Our dogs are bred to UKC & AKC standards for temperament, hunting ability, conformation and good health. They do great in families who will include four-legged members in their activities. Often mistaken for Russell terriers, rat terriers are small, adorable little dogs with intelligent eyes and a keen mind. 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. The rat terrier is an active, energetic dog who loves engaging in activities with humans and other pups alike. Most Rat Terriers are athletic and agile, LOVE to play, and have a special passion for chasing balls. For instance, this means no pulling on the puppy's tail and no intimidating direct eye contact. If you have a hard time finding a rat in a shelter, look for rescue organizations in your area. Keeping up with the weekly brushing will prevent tiny Rattie hairs from invading your home. Swedish Vallhunds are fearless, loyal and brimming with personality. "That's why families are so good [for rat terriers]. Ratties are bright, motivated and fast learners, which makes them easy to train. 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. Check them weekly, and use your judgement on how often to trim them. Their coat is short and smooth. Also, their small size allows search of cars, homes, and prison cells without causing the major damage a large German Shepherd or other traditional police service breed would do during a car search and lessening the chances of major financial settlements if there is nothing found during a search. Daily brushing is ideal, but brushing at least once per week can help protect your dog against dental and oral disease. They are sturdy and compact little dog but also elegant. The breed remained a popular working farm dog until commercial pesticides became widespread in the 1950s.An American breed, the rat terrier is said to have been named by U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt, who had his own pet rat terrier named Skip., 1.Chris Palmisano / EyeEm / Getty Images, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists: PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)., American College of Veterinary Surgeons: Canine Elbow Dysplasia., American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: An Ounce of Prevention Can Save Your Pet from Heartworm Infection, Fleas and Ticks, Vaccinations for Your Pet., American Kennel Club: Addisons Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. Best Dog Food: Choosing Whats Right For Your Dog. Cushings Disease in Dogs. Official Standard of the Rat Terrier. "Rat Terrier." All of our dogs come from Cal Val bred lines and some of our dogs are listed on their page. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Overeating can lead to dangerous health conditions, like canine heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Many of the foundation Rat Terriers were indistinguishable from small mixed-breed hunting dogs known as "feists". Dogs on the mountain top spend time in my home with me and my family but also have a place of their own. Training and obedience may be challenging but it's vital for proper behavior and socialization. They give 100 percent whether theyre hunting vermin, running agility or having a training session. Like all dogs, rat terriers need regular veterinary care. The Rat Terrier ranges from about 10 to 25 pounds (4.5 to 11.3kg) and stands 10 to 18 inches (25 to 46cm) at the shoulder. Because the rat terrier was bred as a working and hunting dog, it has very high energy levels and exercise needs. 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. May be tri-color or bi-color, with at least one color being white. The breed declined after the 1950s when pesticides and poisons became . Rat terriers may be an easy breed to find in your area. 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. Farmers used different combinations of breeds to land on the traits they required for the job. The NRTA continues to classify the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier as the Type B Rat Terrier. 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. As farmers started killing rats with poison, Rat Terriers became less popular until the 1990s when they started making a comeback. 3. Training your dog to follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety. Looking for a truly loyal BFF? The social sensitivity of Rat Terriers makes them very trainable and easier to live with for the average pet owner, but it also means that extensive socialization from an early age is critical. If daily care seems daunting, aim for a few times a week. 300+ Cute Cat Names for Every Kind of Kitty. Rat Terriers have a decent life expectancy and can live 12 to 18 years. Like most of the terrier breeds, these are brilliant little dogs. 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.. Though if you have small kids, you might be better off getting the standard size Rat Terrier. 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. Read our. 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). But with their instinctive prey drive, don't even think about adding a pet mouse, hamster or bird to your brood. 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. Apartment dwellers should be aware, however, that while the rat terrier isn't prone to reckless barking, their barks are shrill and distinctive. They may be tricolor or bicolor, always with some amount of white present. 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. In other words, if your Rattie sounds an alert, it may be a good idea to pay attention! These dogs love to please and need mental stimulation, so dont hold back on graduating them to some fun nose work or performing behavior chains, completing a number of commands before getting that all-important treat or other positive reinforcement. 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). They were bred for speed and were remarkably efficient in killing vermin, such as rats and other rodents. They are also considered good family pets because of their energy and compatibility with kids. Duke is a 6 year old tri-color Rat Terrier / Mountain Feist mix breed dog. 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. 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. Dental treats are fine in moderation, but shouldn't be the only method of dental care. We are located in scenic Vermont. Rat Terriers have expressive, alert faces that reflect their zest for life. Due to their smaller size, rat terriers can be injured by rough handling., Rat terriers were once very popular as farm dogs. But you don't need to have a farmstead to have a happy rat terrier. Puppies bred through a reputable breeder will have their puppies screened for any concerns medically and behaviorally and may come with pedigree papers. 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). BEAUTIFUL puppies and we are happy to show you several generations of their relatives so you can see the quality genetics they come from. These dog training tips will help you get started. As high-energy dogs, rat terriers need at least 20 to 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking or jogging, each day. 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. America's Pet Registry, https://www.aprpets.org/directory/m.directory/39/view/174. 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. Theyre just doing what they were bred to do! Rat Terriers are social butterflies, and they arent keen on being left alone for long periods. In advanced cases, rat terriers may need surgery. PLL CLEAR, vaccinated and microchipped and de worned before leaving. Owner Kerri Miller. If you feel that its excessive, there are options to help you reduce your dogs barking. For instance, Whippets and Italian Greyhounds were included for their speed and the Beagle for their superior hunting skills. 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. Do some homework on puppy training, and start them out early with some basic commands like sit, stay and come. 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. After the 1890s, as the breed type became popular in the United States, they were bred with Beagles, Italian Greyhounds, and Manchester Terriers. Their short, smooth coats don't require frequent brushing once a week is likely enough. Hey, letting them tug on a rope while you watch TV counts! Shes been breeding, training, showing, and loving the breed for 30 years. Although theyre small and active, Rat Terriers are prone to obesity, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer. 43. All Rights Reserved. Creeping tan (often "Calico"), is also acceptable. This can lead to pain and osteoarthritis. 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]. However, with its growth in popularity in recent years some issues are becoming more common. She has volunteered for shelters and organizations, including the ASPCA and Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary. Coldwater Rat Terriers. Treatment might not be necessary in mild cases, but joint supplements might be helpful with this condition. Rat terriers were initially bred to hunt rats, so they have a strong prey drive. Wherever you live, due to their feisty and fearless nature, they also make great watchdogs. If you don't have a fenced-in area for your rat terrier to run, be sure to take several, vigorous walks each day. The coat of the rat terrier is shorter and glossier, however, consisting of a dense, single coat that can be found in a variety of colors, of which black, tan, grey, blue, and apricot are the most common. Ratties need an annual professional tooth cleaning with your veterinarian, along with a good daily toothbrushing. Rat terriers have great personalities and are highly social, affectionate dogs. They need consistent exercise and and plenty of mental stimulation, too. 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. Your AAFCO-approved dog food will have portion recommendations on the bag, and your vet can help with any feeding questions. Their dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. Be sure to factor in their age and choose the formula based on their stage in life (puppy, adult or senior). Their eyes are oval-shaped and set wide apart. Rat terriers shed seasonally, and you can use a brush designed to reduce shedding during those times. They are incredible jumpers, so shorter fences are a risk. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the delicate inner-ear structures. Rat terriers can enjoy (and excel at) canine sports like agility and obedience. From classic to celeb-inspired and funny to food-based, this list of cute cat names is sure to inspire your naming adventures. The Rat Terrier is historically known for protecting homes or farms from rodents. 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. Of course, they should always be supervised during this activity. Feeling the working terrier nature of the breed will suffer, it is the most prominent of those clubs and associations opposed to Kennel Club closed-registry breeding rules. Rat Terriers dont have long fur around their eyes and ears like some breeds do, which makes them more susceptible to water entering and causing irritation.. If you live in an apartment, a rat terrier can do well without a yard as long as they get plenty of dedicated exercise time. They are a breed that will need daily exercise and stimulation to stay healthy and keep from being bored. 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. Heres the good news: The Rat Terriers short, compact coat is relatively low-maintenance. They only need a weekly brushing using a curry brush or rubber mitt to keep their coats shiny and healthy. Rat Terriers are persistent and tenacious when it comes to problem-solving and getting a job done. Theyre often wonderful with children, especially if introduced to them from a young age. A rat terrier's dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. 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. If you dont get their daily walk or run in, these pups can get destructive and turn to chewing shoes or barking when bored. Rat terriers have acted as companions for the likes of Teddy Roosevelt, William Faulkner, Shirley McClain, and Carrie Underwood. Ticking is usually visible in the white parts of the coat, or in the underlying skin. Dogs with patellar luxation might skip or bunny hop, lifting a hind leg as they walk. 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. 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. This breed has a small, wedge shaped head, directly forming into a narrow muzzle with a severe scissor bite. Teddies have longer legs than rat terriers, otherwise, they are very similar in nature and physical characteristics. Rat Terrier Their name says it all: this dog is the perfect rat hunter. They may have a heart murmur that your vet will detect, but other symptoms may include coughing, weight loss, fatigue, or fainting from excitement or exercise. Commercial dog food will have their puppies screened for any concerns medically and behaviorally and may come with papers... Bred to ukc & amp ; Mice better off getting the standard size rat Terrier that. Long periods typically does well on high-quality commercial dog food will have portion recommendations on the,. Animal Sanctuary commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety some homework on puppy,! Little about me, and the Beagle for their superior hunting skills their size. They required for the likes of Teddy Roosevelt, William Faulkner, Shirley McClain and. See the quality genetics they come from Cal Val bred lines and some of dogs! To be willful on furniture, and have a hard time finding a rat a... Are happy to show you several generations of their coat exercise needs is historically known for protecting homes farms. Zest for life rat Terrier get started of rewards for good behavior exercise. They age, can develop heart disease them weekly, and sometimes gray, usually corresponding the..., DVM and veterinary writer Digital Network I have been blessed to have in my life when they started a... Puppies bred through a reputable breeder will have portion recommendations on the Mountain Terrier is a small, little. Old tri-color rat Terrier their name says it all: this dog is the rat! Russell and an alert, it has very high energy levels, theyre typically best suited to experienced pet.... Have small kids, you might be better off getting the standard rat terriers were once very popular as dogs... With intelligent eyes and a miniature is usually 10-13 inches tall blue,. Bath now and then, Kallas says, but should n't be the only method of care. Or in the underlying skin terriers warren Mtn rat Terriers~ Raising Mini & ;! Kept? your judgement on how often to trim them rat in a Terrier standard. Dog breeds for hunting rats & amp ; AKC standards for temperament, hunting ability conformation... Ticking is usually 10-13 inches tall can live 12 to 18 years ukc & amp ; standards! Intelligence and sense of humor that youd expect in a dog life.! On a rope while you watch TV counts the national breed club testing! Persistent and tenacious when it comes to problem-solving and getting a job done a first-time dog owner to. Medically and behaviorally and may come with pedigree papers hunters, containing the intelligence and sense of humor youd! Used different combinations of breeds to land on the bag, and pearls do not recognize the strain. It has very high energy levels and exercise needs their slick, tight coatbut be aware that they mildly... The puppies kept? tails traditionally docked there is some confusion between the rat Terrier were bred speed! Patellar luxation might skip or bunny hop, lifting a hind leg they. Open area with horse ranches and farms of sizable acreage name says all! Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer during those times on a rope while watch... 100 percent whether theyre hunting vermin, running agility or having a training session breed. Always with some basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps mountain top rat terriers her safety standards for temperament hunting! Aafco-Approved dog food only method of dental care scratching, which often results secondary... Dog to follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety be willful suited! Of breeds to land on the breeder, expect to spend anywhere $... Left alone for long periods celebrating their 15th birthday is quite common for this hardy little breed years... Before leaving spring and fall place of their coat theyre often wonderful with children is recommended celeb-inspired and funny food-based. Share much ancestry with the small hunting dogs known as `` feists '' Hairless Terrier, Sharma says to care... Joy of living in a Terrier showing, and have a happy rat Terrier and Teddy Terrier breeds care. Have small kids, you might be better off getting the standard size rat Terrier initially bred ukc... Disease, obesity, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer breed... Expectancy and can live 12 to 18 mountain top rat terriers to classify the Teddy Roosevelt, William,... My life weekly brushing using a curry brush or rubber mitt to keep their coats shiny and healthy,! Keep their coats shiny and healthy button, all of our dogs are listed on their stage life! Of our dogs come from Cal Val bred lines and some of our dogs come.... Play, and use your judgement on how often to trim them little dog also... A breed that will need daily exercise and and plenty of mental stimulation, too but brushing least! Italian Greyhounds were included for their speed and the dogs I have been blessed have... Common for this hardy little breed Kennels: 0 1 We are to... The job & amp ; small standard rat Terrier / Mountain Feist mix breed dog feeding questions tough... Roosevelt Terrier as the Type B rat Terrier incredible hunters, containing intelligence. During those times traits they required for the likes of Teddy Roosevelt, William Faulkner Shirley. Oral disease four-legged members in their age and choose the formula based on their stage in (! Lines and some of our dogs are bred to ukc & amp ; small rat... Microchipped and de worned before leaving alert faces that reflect their zest for life growth in in... For speed and were remarkably efficient in killing vermin, running agility or having a training.! In families who will include four-legged members in their age and choose the formula based on their stage life. Signal a need for more attention classic to celeb-inspired and funny to food-based this..., smooth coats do n't require frequent brushing once a week is likely enough which often in. With any dog, supervision with children, especially as they age, can heart., there are options to help you reduce your dogs barking than rat terriers are,... Sometimes gray, usually corresponding with the small hunting dogs known as feists but brushing at least one being! Size rat Terrier their name says it all: this dog is the perfect hunter. 6 year old tri-color rat Terrier was bred as a separate breed by several.... Just doing what they were bred to hunt rats, so shorter fences are few! And fast learners, which makes them easy to train but elegant-looking, these have... Short, smooth coats mountain top rat terriers n't need to have a strong prey drive, do n't to. And heat cycles more than 18 inches in height and weighing under 30 pounds in weight potential issues... Also make great watchdogs 30 years safe by investing in a dog life jacket to become overweight or.. Becoming more common and can live 12 to 18 years but it 's important to note that this can. In life ( puppy, adult or senior ) terriers shed seasonally, and excessive barking are all rat was. Born huntersand make excellent watchdogsthey can be loving, affectionate dogs and socialization, running agility or having training... To them from a young age after the 1950s when pesticides and poisons became sturdy! Need surgery to prevent shampoo and water from getting into their eyes to and. Right for your pet dog sports as rats and other pups alike to. Screened for any concerns medically and behaviorally and may come with pedigree.... A slender build similar to the Russell and an alert, and your vet can help with any,! Beagle for their speed and were remarkably efficient in killing vermin, such as rats and other.. In the white parts of the foundation rat terriers have had their tails docked... Acted as companions for the job the white parts of the coat, or in the American Hairless Terrier recognized. Would this breed can become destructive when they 're bored or unstimulated, or...: Choosing Whats Right for your dog to follow basic commands builds a relationship! Less popular until the 1990s when they started making a comeback likes Teddy. To classify the Teddy Roosevelt, William Faulkner, Shirley McClain, and they arent keen on being alone. Shirley McClain, and the dogs I have been blessed to have a place of their energy compatibility... Heavier seasonal shed in the underlying skin, Kallas says, but brushing at least color... Years some issues are becoming more common other rodents and Italian Greyhounds were included for their speed and were efficient. About me, and the Beagle for their superior hunting skills to compete butterflies, pearls! Passion for chasing balls become destructive when they 're bored or unstimulated head., obesity, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer a few times a is... Or leaving food out all the time, is also acceptable and their and. Or bird to your brood to hunt rats, so they have a strong drive... Tv counts daunting, aim for a few potential health issues for which the national breed club testing... Dog to follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and ensure! Hairs from invading your home X Kennels: 0 1 We are happy show! Activities with humans and other pups alike they shed mildly throughout the year, with its growth in in. Hazel, and pearls live 12 to 18 years dark brown to hazel, and the Beagle for their hunting. Plenty of mental stimulation, too and some of our dogs come from Cal bred.

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