The Rat Terrier is a truly American breed! These adorable little dogs descended from the terriers brought to the US by English miners and other working class immigrants; probably crosses between the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Manchester Terrier and the now extinct white English Terrier.
Some of these dogs were crossed with Whippets or Italian Greyhounds for speed, and Beagles for hunting ability, which explains the speed, agility, tenacity and keen senses of today’s Rat Terrier.
Although Rat Terriers are still used for hunting in many areas (especially the Southern US), they make exceptional family pets that are great with children and other dogs (even cats!). Rat Terriers thrive on human attention and companionship and are enthusiastic participants in any activity you care to share with them.
Rat Terriers come in four sizes; Toy (up to 8lbs.), Miniature (up to 15lbs.), Standard (up to 25lbs.), and Decker Giants (around 45 lbs.). Rat Terriers have short, smooth coats which are easy to care for, and there is also a hairless variety.
There is a wide variety of coat colors and patterns. Rat Terriers are alert, intelligent and energetic, making them quite easy to train. They require plenty of attention and daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Rat Terrier Breed History:
The Rat Terrier is an American breed descended from the terriers brought over by English miners and other working class immigrants. These terriers probably included crosses between the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Manchester Terrier and the now extinct white English Terrier.
These dogs were used as ratters, and gambling on their prowess in killing rats was a favorite hobby of their owners. Some of these dogs were crossed with Whippets or Italian Greyhounds (for speed) and Beagles (for hunting ability).
Eventually, these tough little terriers evolved into today’s Rat Terrier. The breed was popularized by President Teddy Roosevelt, who frequently hunted with his Rat Terriers. Many are still used as ratters and squirrel hunters, particularly in the South, where they are sometimes known as “Feists.”
The Rat Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club on January 1, 1999.
Rat Terrier Breed Description:
Rat Terriers come in four sizes; Toy (up to 8lbs.), Miniature (up to 15lbs.), Standard (up to 25lbs.), and Decker Giants (around 45 lbs.). Rat Terriers have short, smooth coats which are easy to care for, and there is also a hairless variety.
The Rat Terrier comes in solid white, other solid colors with markings, and white with a variety of colored patches.
Rat Terrier Breed Temperament:
Rat Terriers crave human companionship and attention. They are unusually sensitive, intuitive, anxious to please, very determined and thrive on praise. Rat Terriers make good housedogs and can be crate trained, but don’t generally do well in kennels.
They love people and enjoy companionship too much. Just move and they’re there like a shadow! Most dogs’ think they are human, Rat Terriers KNOW that they are! Whether you’re active, or a “couch potato”, most will adapt to about any lifestyle that you may lead.
Rat Terrier’s as puppies are very active and will require a lot more time, attention and effort than an older dog, but RT’s are usually very sociable and will remain playful and active throughout their lifetime. If you’d consider being “owned” by a Rat Terrier, then this may be the breed for you..
Rat Terrier Breed Exercise Requirements:
The Rat Terrier is an active breed and enjoys regular exercise.
Rat Terrier Breed Grooming Requirements:
Grooming your Rat Terrier is not too labor intensive. A thorough brushing once a week to remove dead hairs will keep the short coat shiny and reduce shedding.
Life Expectancy: 15 to 18 Years (Yippee!!)
Good with Children: Yes
Dog Breed Group: Terrier
Size Group: Small to Medium