Are Rat Terriers crazy?
Members of the Rat Terrier dog breed are adorable, little, digging escape artists who are true terriers: feisty, funny, energetic, lively, vermin-chasing, and incapable of being boring. Stubborn as all get out, they are not big on pleasing people, but the people who love them laugh all the time.
What is the lifespan of a rat terrier?
15 – 18 years
Rat Terrier/Life span
What was the history of the Rat Terrier?
In the 1920s, Toy Fox Terriers that were too large for their breeding programs were bred with Rat Terriers, resulting in toy-sized, or miniature, Rat Terriers. The Rat Terrier was common on American farms, but populations began to decline in the 1940s and 1950s when farmers began to use poison to control pests and vermin.
Are there any other types of Rat Terriers?
Two other types of Rat Terriers were developed during this time, as well: The Decker Rat Terrier and the Hairless Rat Terrier.
How tall does a miniature Rat Terrier get?
Although Rat Terriers can thrive in smaller spaces, like apartments or condos, those living in small spaces should remember: Rats were bred to run—so they need at least 40 minutes of exercise each day—and they have a strong instinct to bark. Height: Generally, 10 to 13 inches for miniature Rat Terriers and 13 to 18 inches for standard Rat Terriers
What’s the difference between a Rat Terrier and a Decker?
The Decker Rat Terrier is a slightly larger dog that excels in hunting and will retrieve from water, while the Hairless Rat Terrier is a smaller dog (that comes in miniature and standard sizes) and, as the name implies, is hairless. Because the Rat Terrier was bred as a working and hunting dog, he has very high energy levels and exercise needs.
When did the Rat Terrier become a breed?
Throughout the 1910s and 1920s, Rat Terrier breeders worked to propagate certain skills, resulting in several new lines in the breed.
Why are American Rat Terriers the new kid on the block?
Compared to other dog breeds, the American rat terrier is the new kid on the block. They were bred in recent history to help farmers get rid of common rodents and pests that terrorized their farmlands and barns. Like any other dog breed, we always recommend getting to know the rat terrier before bringing one home.
How did the American hairless rat terrier get its name?
In the 1970s, a hairless mutation appeared in a single Rat Terrier and was propagated into a strain of the Rat Terrier. After a period of development this line resulted in the American Hairless Terrier, recognized as a separate breed by several registries. The Rat Terrier comes in a variety of coat colors.
Are there any health problems with Rat Terriers?
Chronic itchy skin allergies are the most common health problems in Rat Terriers. But epilepsy and heart disease are becoming concerns, as well. Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers.