Do rat terriers have health issues?
Rat Terriers are generally very healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and cardiac and eye disorders.
How often should I bathe my rat terrier?
The rat terrier is an easy-care dog whose short coat needs little attention beyond brushing as needed to remove dust and shed hairs. Rat terriers normally don’t require bathing more than once per month, if that often. Bathing removes important oils from a dog’s coat.
When do Rat Terriers have their ears up?
Fun fact: Rat Terriers puppies are born with their ears up. About the time their eyes begin to open, the ears start to drop. Some of those ears may stay dropped, some may pop back up in a few weeks or months.
How big does a Rat Terrier dog get?
The Rat Terrier is a small and sturdy dog and should be between 13 to 16 inches in height.
How did the Rat Terrier get its name?
President Theodore Roosevelt is said to have given the breed its name after his own terrier had eradicated the rat infestation at the White House; clearly, the Rat Terrier excels as a public servant — as long as it’s in his own best interest.
How big does a Decker Rat Terrier get?
The UKC doesn’t have a specified weight for standard Rat Terriers as each individual dog has a different weight for their height. The Decker Rat Terrier is slightly larger than the Rat Terrier and should range between 22 to 40 pounds. A male should be 16 to 19 inches in height while a female should be 16 to 17 inches.
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.
What does a Rat Terrier look like from the front?
The head resembles a smooth, blunt wedge from a front or profile view. When seen from the front, the head widens gradually towards the base of the ears in an unbroken line and is well filled up under the eyes. The expression is intelligent, alert and full of interest. The eyes are not large. They are obliquely set wide apart and are oval in shape.
What should I do with my Rat Terrier?
Some Rat Terriers can get sufficient exercise for their needs through indoor playtime, but most will thrive with daily walks and a bit of tennis-ball-chasing and other play in a fenced enclosure. They tend to do well with other dogs their size or larger. Early socialization is a must, and puppy training classes are recommended.
How often should you brush a Rat Terrier dog?
The nails should be trimmed at least monthly, keeping them short and neat, as overly long nails can be painful to the dog. Check his ears weekly, and remove any excess wax and debris, which can cause ear infections. Teeth should be brushed daily if possible, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs.