Do rat terriers retrieve?
He succeeded in producing a large Rat Terrier with a fixed ear set — a hunting dog who would even retrieve from water. The Deckers were used for hunting wild pig, deer, cougar and bear as well as in the more traditional Rat Terrier roles.
Do rat terriers shed bad?
Rat Terriers have short, easy-care coats. Brush them weekly or more often with a soft bristle brush or rubber curry brush. The more often you brush, the less loose hair you’ll have floating around your house. Rat Terriers shed moderately year-round and they have a heavier shedding season in the spring and fall.
When does a Rat Terrier shed the most?
Rat Terrier shedding is fair for most of the year, but heavier during the spring and fall shedding seasons; drooling isn’t an issue. Ratters have short, smooth, double-layered coats that shed moderately all year long–but when they “blow” their coats in the spring and fall, the Rat Terrier shedding problem is much more apparent.
How long does a Rat Terrier dog live?
The Rat Terrier is a small American dog, bred as a companion family and farm dog. As with many small dogs, the Rat Terrier is prone to dental problems and luxating patella, along with a few other common ailments. Generally speaking, however, the Rat Terrier is healthy and hardy, and may live as long as 18 years.
When did the Rat Terrier go out of business?
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. A small number of breeders maintained the breed until they came back into popularity in the 1970s.
What should I do if my Rat Terrier has health problems?
Surgery can treat this condition as well. The Rat Terrier is an active and intelligent breed that requires a few moderately paced walks a day to remain content. Active and creative play inside, with new tricks taught, and new games played, will keep the Rat Terrier’s mind nimble and engaged.
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.
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.
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.