Originally from England, the Rat Terrier was used as rodent and small game hunters. They were also treasured as lovable and loyal pets. When their amazing abilities to hunt and kill in rat-infested farms and homes were recognized, they became pit dogs.
Players couldn’t resist using these remarkable, tenacious and intrepid little dogs in the pits. They did not face 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 drop 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 friendlier, and are extremely in tune with your person’s mood.
The rat is known for its phenomenal speed! They need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Plan to walk and exercise with 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 that when you’re ready to call it quits, they’ll be ready to come back inside and snuggle with you.
What has won them so many hearts and become such wonderful pets for over a century is that they can go from fierce, tenacious and intrepid small game hunter to snuggly and cuddly lapdog in the blink of an eye! !
Ask Rat Terrier people to describe their pet and you’ll listen: loyal, fun, energetic, gentle, friendly, happy, adaptable, fearless, great watchdog, energetic, confident, alert, sweet, great with kids, great with other pets, healthy, intelligent, eager to please, affectionate and educated.
Adult Rat Terriers are also observed 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 doing parlor tricks. Positive reinforcement, non-punishment training goes a long way with these tiny people treats.
Socialize your puppy as soon as possible. Those first 20 weeks are vitally important. Take 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 dwarfs 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 usually measures 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 shed… a lot!
As many vets will attest, they would go out of business if they relied on Rat Terriers as their primary patients. Known for being an exceptionally healthy breed, their most common health problems include hip dysplasia and allergies.
Their 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 daily walks and runs. They thrive on love and attention, and they return it tenfold.
The only downside to the rat is that they are diggers, so don’t plan on throwing them out in the backyard unattended for long periods of time.
Bottom line: Do your homework! Investigate this wonderful breed. Talk to Rat Terrier owners before purchasing or adopting one. Avoid like the plague: flea markets, backyard catteries, classified ads, and pet stores. They only perpetuate the horrible puppy mills that flood the market with shoddy pets. Spend a few more bucks. Find a trusted and responsible breeder who takes pride in the quality of his dogs.
Consult shelters and rescues. As Rat Terriers are favorites 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 is there, patiently waiting for you.
