Is a Rat Terrier the perfect dog for you?
Originally from England, the Rat Terrier was used as rodents and hunters of small game. They were also treasured as lovable and loyal pets. When their amazing hunting and killing skills were recognized on rat-infested farms and homes, they became pit dogs.
Players couldn’t resist using these remarkable, tenacious and fearless little dogs in the pits. They did not fight each other; they faced rats! In Suffolk, England, a Rat Terrier named Billy was famous for killing 2,501 rats in an infested barn, in just 7 hours! That’s a lot of rats!
The “original” Rat Terrier mix is believed to be the English White Terrier (now extinct), Smooth Fox Terrier, Whippet, and Manchester Terrier.
When British immigrants brought their beloved pets to the US in the 1890s, a small Beagle, a dash of Italian Greyhound, a dash of Chihuahua, and a dash of Miniature Pinscher were added to the mix. They really are the proverbial “Heinz 57”.
Often confused with the Jack Russell Terrier, the Rat Terrier has a different profile and a totally different temperament. They come with an “off” button, which most Jackies lack! They are usually calmer, bark less, are more friendly, and are extremely in tune with their mood.
The rat is known for its phenomenal speed! They need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Plan to walk and exercise your Rat at least 30-60 minutes a day. They find the water almost impossible to resist! Swimming is a great and fun way to exercise them! But, the best part is, when you’re ready to call it quits, they’ll be ready to come back inside and snuggle up with you.
What has made them win so many hearts and make such wonderful pets for over a century is that they can go from fierce, tenacious, and fearless small game hunter to cuddly, snuggly lapdog in the blink of an eye! !
Ask Rat Terrier people to describe their pet and you’ll hear: loyal, fun, energetic, kind, friendly, happy, adaptable, fearless, great watchdog, energetic, confident, alert, sweet, great with children, great with other pets, healthy, intelligent, eager to please, affectionate and polite.
Adult Rat Terriers are also seen to adapt effortlessly to new homes and families. This makes them an excellent candidate, if you are willing to search for an available senior dog at a rescue center or shelter.
Being extremely docile dogs, they are easy and fun to train for obedience, agility, fly-ball, dock diving, and/or parlor tricks. Positive reinforcement, non-punishment training goes a long way with these tiny pleasures for people.
Socialize your puppy as soon as possible. Those first 20 weeks are vitally important. Get them from here to there. Make learning fun, and there’s nothing you can’t teach them.
Just like cars, there is a perfect size for you and your family. These muscular midgets come in three sizes. The Standard can be expected to reach between 14 and 23 inches and weigh between 12 and 35 pounds. The medium size is usually between 8 and 14 inches and weighs between 6 and 8 pounds. The toy can reach 8 inches and weigh between 4 and 6 pounds.
Their single coat makes them easy to keep clean, but they do shed…a lot!
As many veterinarians will attest, they would go bankrupt if they depended on Rat Terriers as their primary patients. Known to be an exceptionally healthy breed, their most common health issues include hip dysplasia and allergies.
Its lifespan is 15-18 years!
The Rat Terrier is probably one of the best family pets you will find. They usually adapt well to any situation. They are an excellent pet for families with small children or for the elderly. They do well in apartments and condos, as long as they go for a daily walk and run. They thrive on love and attention, and they return it tenfold.
The only drawback to the rat is that they are diggers, so don’t plan on throwing them out into the backyard unattended for long periods of time.
Bottom line: Do your homework! Investigate this wonderful breed. Talk to Rat Terrier owners before buying or adopting one. Avoid like the plague: flea markets, backyard breeders, classifieds, and pet stores. They only perpetuate the horrible puppy mills that flood the market with shoddy pets. Spend a few more dollars. Find a responsible and trustworthy breeder who takes pride in the quality of his dogs.
Check shelters and rescues. As Rat Terriers are a favorite of the elderly, many are turned over to shelters and rescues, due to nothing more than unfortunate life circumstances. Who knows, maybe your new best friend will be there, patiently waiting for you.