Rat Terrier (American Rat Terrier)

The Rat Terrier (American Rat Terrier) is an American breed of dog originally used to catch rodents. Today, they are more often kept as companionsThe Rat Terrier can be small or medium in size, energetic, loyal, and obedient. This rare breed is not recognized by the FCI, only by a few American Kennel Clubs.

Content

1 History of origin
2 Appearance
3 Character and behavior
4 Content Features
- 4.1 Care
5 Health and life expectancy
6 Where to buy a puppy
- 6.1 Price
7 Photos and videos
- 7.1 Video about the Rat Terrier breed

History of origin

There are many gaps in the history of Rat Terriers. It is known that most small rat-catching dogs were brought to North America by European immigrants. In addition to their primary purpose (hunting small game), they were also used to kill rats. Over time, these dogs began to spread among landowners and interbreed with other breeds. In the early 20th century, Rat Terriers began to be specifically bred for rodent control. The crosses primarily involved Fox Terriers, Bull Terriers, Manchester Terriers, and Old English White Terriers.

The name Rat Terrier is believed to have been given to the breed by President Theodore Roosevelt after a small dog rid the White House of rats.

In the 1920s-1940s, Rat Terriers became very popular among farmers, but the use of rodenticides and the commercialization of agriculture in the following decades led to a sharp decline in their numbers. Thanks to the efforts of enthusiasts, the breed was preserved, and its high genetic diversity contributed to its robust health. Today, Rat Terriers are popular not only as companions but also as working dogs in some states. They are also used by police as search and rescue dogs and as therapy dogs. Rat Terriers are the ancestors of American Hairless Terriers.

Appearance

The Rat Terrier is a small, smooth-coated dog with a well-proportioned build. The breed comes in two height variations:

miniature - 25-33 cm;
standard ― 33-45 cm.

The head is bluntly wedge-shaped. The eyes are small, set wide apart, and oval. The ears are set high, V-shaped with pointed tips, erect or folded over the cartilage. The stop is distinct. The muzzle tapers smoothly toward the nose. The lips are thin. The bite is scissor-like. The neck is proportionate to the head, lean, and blends smoothly into the flat shoulder blades.

Rat Terrier puppies are born with erect ears. When they begin to open their eyes, their ears droop. In some dogs, they remain erect, while in others, they rise.

The body is slightly elongated. Bone is moderate, muscles are well developed. The skin is taut. The dog should be in good physical condition. The chest is moderately broad, reaching down to the elbows. The back is level and firm. The loin is slightly arched. The croup is rounded. The tail is usually docked between the second and third vertebrae. In its natural state, it can vary in length, including a congenital bobtail.

The coat is short, smooth, shiny, and lies close to the body. A slight ruff or wave on the back is permitted. The coat is variegated: any variation of colored spots combined with white.

Character and behavior

Originally bred as a farm dog, the Rat Terrier is capable of hunting rodents and other vermin above and below ground, as well as tracking and catching small game. It is alert, courageous, loyal, and obedient, full of energy and enthusiasm. It is easily trained and gets along well with other dogs. Aggression or shyness are not typical of the breed.

Rat Terriers are friendly, energetic and cheerful dogs that strive to be the center of attention, and there is never a dull moment with them.

By nature, the Rat Terrier is very social and sensitive. Loyal to its owner, it gets along well with children, with whom it can already play. It requires good socialization, especially during the first three months of life. Without proper training, it can be overly stubborn and independent. It has strong watchdog qualities and is wary of strangers. In its mindset, temperament, and talents, the Rat Terrier resembles Manchester Terrier.

Content Features

Small Rat Terriers adapt equally well to life in an apartment, a private home, or on a farm. Keeping them outdoors year-round in temperate climates is impossible due to their lack of an undercoat and their sensitivity to cold. Homeowners should also be aware that Rat Terriers are adept at digging under structures and jumping over small fences. To maintain good health, they require about an hour of vigorous exercise daily.

Owners prefer to feed Rat Terriers complete, premium-quality food designed for small, active breeds. It's worth noting that some Rat Terriers suffer from food allergies, digestive sensitivities, and are prone to weight gain.

Care

Grooming a small, smooth-coated dog is easy. Regular brushing with a soft brush or mitten is sufficient to reduce the amount of hair shed around the house. Bathe every 7-10 days or less frequently. Nails should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks. Ears should be cleaned of excess wax as it accumulates. Dental health is also monitored.

Health and life expectancy

Rat Terriers are small, but very hardy and strong dogs. Their life expectancy is 15-19 years. Only in recent years, with their growth and popularity, have some hereditary health problems begun to emerge:

dislocation of the patella;
cardiovascular diseases;
pancreatic diseases;
hip dysplasia;
ophthalmological diseases;
Legg-Callier-Perthes syndrome.

Where to buy a puppy

The Rat Terrier is registered with several American clubs, including the AKC and UKC. It is not recognized by the FCI, so it is very rare outside the US. There are a few breeders of these dogs in Europe.