The
Rat Terrier Breed was
originally bred to hunt and take care of small vermin especially Rats
and Squirrels. As a consequence of their fast speed over short
distances they were exceptionally good at catching and killing the
vermin. Due to their effectiveness at killing vermin around farms and
other properties they became very popular companions for hunters. They
were especially popular during the 20's and 30's.
Although private farming declined causing a decline in the Rat Terrier
Breed the breed's bloodline has managed to continue to this day. This
breed is considered intelligent, alert, active and a loyal companion.
Weight
&
Height - This breed come in a
variety of sizes and weights:
Standard - Can reach a height of 14-23 inches or 35.5-58.5 cm
Standard - Can reach a weight of 12-35 pounds or 5.5-16 kg
Medium Sized - Can reach a height of 8-14 inches or 20-30.5 cm
Medium Sized - Can reach a weight of 6-8 pounds or 3-3.5 kg
Toy Size - Can reach a height of 8 inches or 20cm
To Size - Can reach a weight of 4-6 pounds or 2-3 kg
Coat
- Short and can shed. Brush the coat regularly to remove dead or lose
hair.
Color
- The color of the coat is tricolor - so it incorporates black, brown
and white. The coat can also include other colors such as orange, red,
sable and lemon.
Ears
- The ears stand on end making the breed seem even more alert.
Tail
- The tail has been traditionally docked although it is now becoming
far more common for it to be kept long (thank goodness)!
Temperament
- The Rat Terrier breed is often mistaken for a Jack Russell mainly
because they do look very similar. However, they have very different
characters and temperaments. Where the Jack Russell can be a busy and
very active dog (sometimes to active and highly strung) the Rat Terrier
is more happy to relax and spend time just sleeping next to their owner.
If you own this breed you need to be aware that they are very prone to
understanding and responding to how their owner is feeling and acting
i.e. they are very sensitive to how you are feeling. This is very
different to the Jack Russell who are less sensitive. So if you are
angry, upset, tired or happy your little Rattie will respond to you
differently - this actually makes dog obedience training so much easier
- consequently they are a very easy dog to train.
It is important (as with all breeds) that you start
socialization
from an early age as this will reduce any anxiety around unfamiliar
experiences and environments - this breed are very intelligent and do
need lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
This breed love water and they do need at least a half hour walk a day
- otherwise they may become restless especially if left out on the yard
(and they love to dig so watch out).
Behavior
- As the owner of this
breed you need to be strong and firm - if you do not exert your
authority and set appropriate boundaries i.e. remain the pack leader
then your dog may start to show behavior problems. They love
to be around their owners, are lively and very intelligent but do need
strong leadership to avoid what is known as small dog syndrome,
territorial problems and behavior and obedience problems that start as
a consequence of a lack of regular training.
Life
Span - This breed have a life
span of 15-18 years.
History
of the Breed - Many people
think that the Rat Terrier got it's name as a consequence of the US
President Theodore Roosevelt owning a Terrier that was particularly
good at getting rid of Rats around the White House. It is thought that
the breed originated from Smooth Fox Terriers and Manchester Terriers
that originally
came from the UK. The resulting Terrier was then bred again with the
Beagle, Smooth Fox Terrier and Whippet which resulted in the Rat
Terrier Breed we have now.
