Training should be a fun, rewarding, and fulfilling experience for both of you. Rat Terriers also fit right in whether you live in an apartment or wide-open farm land. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Due to their instinct to chase after prey, rat terriers need to be leashed while walking or any time theyre not contained in a fenced area. TABLE MOUNTAIN RAT TERRIER RANCH proudly presents 4 male Rat Terriers puppies out of a Champion mother and a Champion Pointed sire. Ratties are bright, motivated and fast learners, which makes them easy to train. Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information. That said, they can view pocket pets like hamsters as snacks rather than siblings. This is important because, like their other small breed counterparts, Rat Terriers are more prone to dental disease because theres not a lot of room in their mouths for all their teeth. It's important to note that this breed experiences heavier shedding during the fall, spring, and heat cycles. Black, tan, chocolate, blue, grey Isabella (pearl), lemon and apricot. The Rat Terrier's ears can stand straight up or be semi-erect with the tips pointed upwards or flopping down (which is known as button ears). Youll also want to make sure youre feeding your Rattie foods that are safe for dogs and know what human food your dog should never eat. She strongly recommends working closely with a reputable Rat Terrier breeder to find a puppy thats a good fit for your situation. Always keep your pup on a leash and supervise him whenever he's in a fenced-in yard. Like many terriers, the rat terrier is highly intelligent and can be extremely stubborn. Insurance for dogs, cats, and other household animals can run as low as $20 a month, but that cost can add up over time. They also love digging holes, so make sure that fence is extra-secure before setting them free. Rat terriers are usually loyal to their owners and are very respectful if they receive the proper amount of training at a young age. If sitting on the couch watching movies sounds fun, better move over to share your popcornafter youve taken your daily walk, of course. As farmers started killing rats with poison, Rat Terriers became less popular until the 1990s when they started making a comeback. The Rat Terrier is an American dog breed with a background as a farm dog and hunting companion. They are playful and require much exercise. To prevent heartworms parasitic worms that are transmitted through mosquito bites and infest the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of dogs youll need to start your rat terrier on a heartworm preventative medication. The UKC officially recognized the breed on January 1, 1999. Even a well-trained rat terrier may forget its manners when it spots a squirrel so imagine if your rattie encounters a hamster ball rolling around under its nose! I'm the breeder behind Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers located in Washington. Since Rat Terrier dogs were bred to both function as a working dog and live with a family, they can master both equally. Rat Terrier Breeders. Overall, Rat Terriers are devoted to their people and they love to be included, so dont leave them alone for too long or they will pine for you. Ratties are considered seasonal shedders so, while they do shed throughout the year, its heaviest in the spring and fall. America's Pet Registry, https://www.aprpets.org/directory/m.directory/39/view/174. Depending on the breeder, expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,100 for a Rattie pup. They are sturdy and compact little dog but also elegant. Rat Terriers live up to the term mans best friendtheir temperament is as devoted as their ears are perky. The Top 10 Rat-Hunting Dogs Rat Terrier Cairn Terrier Yorkshire Terrier Norfolk Terrier Jack Russell Terrier West Highland White Terrier Dachshund Miniature Schnauzer Lakeland Terrier German Pinscher Rat Terrier via Wikimedia Commons 1. Surgery might be recommended if the luxation is severe. They tend to be a very healthy and active breed but, like all dogs, they are prone to certain health problems. The tail has been traditionally docked to about 23 inches (5.17.6cm), but the bobtail gene is very common in Rat Terriers and can result in a variety of tail lengths. The rat terrier is an active, energetic dog who loves engaging in activities with humans and other pups alike. The social sensitivity of Rat Terriers makes them very trainable and easier to live with for the average pet owner, but it also means that extensive socialization from an early age is critical. 30+ year Rat Terrier bloodline. [Breeders] do their job for the first eight weeks, and its your job to work on that for at least the next year. But, good news for city-dwellers or apartment renters: They are small enough to get their needs met indoors, as long as you're willing to devote some playtime to them. In contrast, the Rat Terrier has benefited from a long history of refinement with regular outcrosses to bring in useful qualities and genetic variability. 43. Proper socialization of a Rat Terrier puppy includes exposing the animal to a wide variety of people and places, particularly during the first three months of life. Is the added expense worth the trouble to insure your beloved pet? Dogs with this condition generally show signs of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity, or simply moving stiffly. Loving, loyal, and affectionate to family members, High energy levels and exercise needs, which may be difficult for busy families, May be difficult to train, due to their intelligence. Would this breed be a good choice for a first-time dog owner? Paddocks provide ample room to romp, run, and play together or alone during the day. With their short, dense coat, Rat Terriers are low maintenance in the grooming department. The breed comes in two size varieties and are happy-go-lucky, playful, and portable companions. You can typically satisfy their wiggles with at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. As the use of poisons and mechanical traps became more widespread, the rat terrier's usage on farms began to dwindle, and people began to realize the bright, friendly dog made an excellent house companion as well. They also enjoy splashing in water, so think about taking a day trip to the coast or a lake if there isnt a body of water close home. Often mistaken for Russell terriers, rat terriers are small, adorable little dogs with intelligent eyes and a keen mind. Chocolates, Pear Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers Although rat terriers are born huntersand make excellent watchdogsthey can be loving, affectionate, and loyal to their family members. Hi, I'm Kerri Miller. They may be tricolor or bicolor, always with some amount of white present. The dog isn't big on pleasing its human, which can be frustrating for a new dog owner. Opt for commercially available food approved by theAssociation of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)to make sure your food of choice provides proper nutrition and meets all necessary regulations. Rat terriers have slightly elongated bodies and V-shaped ears that often stick up. The Rat Terrier lifespan is generally 12 . As with any dog, supervision with children is recommended. With an incredibly high prey drive, your rat terrier won't be great as an off-leash dog. Message See more of MountainTop Rat Terriers on Facebook Log In or Create new account A dog food designed for small dog breeds would be appropriate, andbecause Rat Terriers can be prone to skin allergies from various causesKallas says she looks for kibble with a fish-based protein (otherwise, she supplements with fish oil). Treatment options range from over-the-counter joint supplements to surgery. A balanced diet of high-quality dog food is best for a Rat Terrier. A larger strain, often in excess of 25 pounds (11kg), has been developed. Lens luxation can lead to inflammation, glaucoma, and, if left untreated, blindness. Our dogs are bred to UKC & AKC standards for temperament, hunting ability, conformation and good health. Yes, Rat Terriers shed the most in the spring and fall, but do shed moderately all year. 3192. True to their heritage, rat terriers are perfectly suited farm dogs. Small, extremely quick, and blessed with a sharp mind and an ambitious spirit, these agile little dogs excel as hunters of vermin and other small animals. Rat Terriers, especially as they age, can develop heart disease. There are two size divisions:. Before you add a Rat Terrier to your family, make sure youre prepared to meet their needs. Our dogs are bred for health, temperament, and intelligence. Rat terriers need daily exercise to stay happy, but they're small enough that they can get all the exercise they need with some indoor playtime. Rat Terriers are persistent and tenacious when it comes to problem-solving and getting a job done. West Highland White Terrier. Rat Terriers dont have long fur around their eyes and ears like some breeds do, which makes them more susceptible to water entering and causing irritation.. As always, be sure to do your research and ensure a rat terrier is right for your family's lifestyle before bringing a dog home. Shes been breeding, training, showing, and loving the breed for 30 years. The classic coloring is black tan point with piebald spotting (known as black tricolor), but chocolate, tan (varying in shade from pale gold to dark mahogany), blue, isabella (pearl), lemon, and apricot are all fairly common. The first dogs bred for their ratting abilities can be traced back to Europe almost five centuries ago, all the way to Hatch, a dog aboard king Henry VIII's favorite ship. Two other types of rat terriers were developed during this time, including the decker rat terrier and the hairless rat terrier. Rat terriers are lovable, playful dogs full of energy. The Rat Terrier dog breed comes from a mix of several different breed types including the Smooth Fox Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Whippet, Italian Greyhound and Beagle. Breed loyalists maintained the bloodline, leading to the modern Rat Terrier. Although theyre small and active, Rat Terriers are prone to obesity, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. They also have a slender build similar to the Russell and an alert, intelligent face. If a Rat Terrier is introduced to new people (including children), other dogs, and cats early on, theyll likely get along with everyone. Remember that training doesnt end when they grow beyond puppyhood. Hip Dysplasia. They are determined and will do whatever it takes to get them access to the most rewarding outcomes. Boasting an ancestry that goes back some 500 years, the rat terrier breed became established in the United States throughout the 1920s and '30s. Dogs on the mountain top spend time in my home with me and my family but also have a place of their own. (Spoiler: Thats a lot.) We raise minis and standards. In fact, they were specifically bred for this very task and in the 1910s and 1920s, they were the most common farm dog in the US. Because everyone is touching them and interacting with them.". The Rat Terrier breed typically does well on high-quality commercial dog food. Rat terrier puppies, like all dogs, need early socialization and consistent training to grow into well-rounded dogs. We raise top quality puppies for hunting, show and companion animals. Heart failure is the leading cause of death in rat terriers, though this typically doesnt occur until old age. TO SEE OUR FAMILY PHOTOS CLICK ON THE SMALL PHOTO TO THE LEFT. The disease causes the top of the femur to break down due to a lack of blood supply. However, with its growth in popularity in recent years some issues are becoming more common. Called the Decker or Decker Giant, it was named after breeder Milton Decker who created a larger hunting companion and are recognized by the National Rat Terrier Association (NRTA, see "Breed recognition" below). Though some rat terrier puppies are born with naturally short tails, these terriers have had their tails traditionally docked. We strive to produce the best overall pets and family members. There is some confusion between the rat terrier and Teddy terrier breeds. If your rat terrier becomes distracted or you feel your training methods aren't working, try another technique. Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers is back! Mountain Top Rat Terriers works closely together with Cal Val Rat Terriers, owned by Gail Holloway who has been a generous and knowledgeable mentor and friend. Primary Lens Luxationlens luxation may have painful, reddened eyes; iris or lens trembling; or other abnormalities that your veterinarian will be able to observe. And when it comes to training your rat terrier, consistencyand getting an early startis key. Check them weekly, and use your judgement on how often to trim them. RELATED: Which Type of Dog Fence Is Right for Your Pet? You can expect to brush your rat terrier only once per week with a rubber mitt or soft brush to remove loose hair and debris. However they were, for the most part, bred for speed. Keeping up with the weekly brushing will prevent tiny Rattie hairs from invading your home. Rat Terriers tend to love their family, especially if theyre included in whatever the family is doing. As the disease progresses, you may see signs of heart failure such as weight loss and fatigue. Fortunately, hundreds of purebred rescue groups serve just that purpose. Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. But with their instinctive prey drive, don't even think about adding a pet mouse, hamster or bird to your brood. Through the years we have purchased many outstanding Standard Rat Terriers and have begun a top quality breeding program that consists of the last remaining Standard type Fire Mountain dogs left in the world. Ticking is usually visible in the white parts of the coat, or in the underlying skin. If you like the way [a breeders] dogs look and act as compared to anything else you have seen, you are recognizing that time and money, she says, so be willing to pay for that.. The smaller varieties diverged from the Rat Terrier line very early on, with UKC registration for the Toy Fox Terrier beginning in 1936. Tiny, tenacious, and eager to please, the rat terrier's high prey drive and intelligence make him a versatile dog for farm or family living. As much as they love their family, this breed was bred to hunt verminand their natural prey drive reflects that, so early (and consistent!) They originated on American farms, where these little dogs were perfect for exterminating the vermin that could potentially wreak havoc on stored food needed for survival. They are seasonal shedders, so make sure you've got a shedding tool or rubber curry brush handy to collect the excess, or resign yourself to having hair everywhere twice a year. See our complete Pug guide Get all the facts, from health to exercise to temperament, in our complete Italian Greyhound guide. Rat terriers also love to roughhouse and play fetch, tug-of-war, and other social games. ", "If compared to a human, a rat terrier would be like the child at a birthday party who is the first to join a fun game, shout in excitement, and eager to open the presents.". If you don't have a fenced-in area for your rat terrier to run, be sure to take several, vigorous walks each day. Because a rat terrier is highly intelligent, it has a mind of its ownand may be difficult to train if you're a first-time dog owner. if theyre raised with them. Toutle, Washington Phone # 503-380-5644 E-mail - firemountainnorthratterriers@yahoo.com .. If you dont get their daily walk or run in, these pups can get destructive and turn to chewing shoes or barking when bored. Rat terriers may be an easy breed to find in your area. Our primary kennel is climate controlled and doggie doors provide access to outdoor runs for exercise and bathroom breaks. He enjoys being outside, going for walks and taking baths.He is very active and loves being around people.Duke also loves to chase squirrels in his free time.. Zipper, Rat Terrier / Mountain Feist"All Zipper's life he has loved to chase rocks; he brings you a rock and . It's important to teach them sit and recall commands from the get-go. Rat terriers are pretty close to a "set it and forget it" breed when it comes to grooming. Its also recommended to check and clean your Rat Terriers ears once a week as excess wax and debris can cause infections (look for redness, swelling or a bad odor). They need consistent attention during daily exercise simply being let outside to play in a fenced yard wont be adequate. The color ranges from dark brown to hazel, and sometimes gray, usually corresponding with the color of their coat. Athletic and playful, Rat Terriers are feisty, funny dogs that need an appropriate outlet for their energy. While they will learn to "heel" and "stay" perfectly well, if a squirrel or neighborhood cat crosses their line of sight, they will probably be unable to resist the urge to give chase. So you may want to rethink a Rat Terrier if you keep house with rats, mice, hamsters or birds unless you take precautions to keep them separated. In fact, its a great way for them to exercise. "There's a lot to early socialization," says Dennis Riordan, DVM, of the Riordan Pet Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. These attributes were rated by several pet experts, including a dog trainer, veterinarian and behaviorist. Your rat terrier's diet will depend largely on her size, age, and activity levels, but you can expect to feed her between .25 cups (for dogs weighing 10 pounds or less) and 2 cups per day (for dogs weighing between 30 and 40 pounds) of high-protein, high-quality dog food. The coat of the rat terrier is shorter and glossier, however, consisting of a dense, single coat that can be found in a variety of colors, of which black, tan, grey, blue, and apricot are the most common. If your dog's ears are red, inflamed, or smell funny, schedule a visit with your vet ASAPthese may be signs of injury or infection. 0. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. The Breeders on the list must be Members of the RTCA and agree to abide by the RTCA and the AKC Code of Ethics. However, if youre a bit of a pushover for puppy-dog eyes, prefer to let your pooch set the rules, cant see the humor in your dog trying to outsmart you, or dont have a lifestyle you can easily incorporate your dog into (now and for the next 15 years), this is not the right breed for you. Often mistaken for Russell terriers, rat terriers are small, adorable little dogs with intelligent eyes and a keen mind. [1] They share much ancestry with the small hunting dogs known as feists. Do some homework on puppy training, and start them out early with some basic commands like sit, stay and come. Theyre built like a doggie gymnast, muscular and ready to work, and they come in two sizes: Miniature (10-13 inches) and Standard (13-18 inches). As high-energy dogs, rat terriers need at least 20 to 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking or jogging, each day. Dogs usually recover very easily from this surgery and go on to live long, pain-free lives. [3] The average lifespan of a well-bred Rat Terrier is 1619 years. Homes with small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds may not be a good fit for a rat terrier. This can lead to pain and osteoarthritis. 5. If you notice a waxy build-up in your dog's ears, gently clean it with a cotton cloth. The AKC recognized the Rat Terrier as a breed on July 1, 2010, however, it allowed them to compete in companion events beginning January 1, 2006 in sanctioned AKC Companion events (Obedience, Agility, Rally). This condition, where the kneecap (or patella) shifts out of place, is common in Rat Terriers and other small dog breeds. socialization and training is a must. Socializing them early on is important, and obedience training is going to be a must as well; rat terriers are smart enough to think up ways to get into trouble, and they're small and nimble enough to get to places they shouldn't. They do best with families who understand their energy levels and exercise needs and arent going to leave them alone for long periods. Their namesake says it all: Rat Terriers make ideal ratters. Rat Terriers have expressive, alert faces that reflect their zest for life. However, some are more reserved around new people. Rat terriers can be stubborn dogs, but they're clever and highly trainable. But you should not bathe them more frequently than once a month or so, she adds, as this will strip them of the natural oils that keep their skin healthy. All Rat Terrier found here are from AKC-Registered parents. These are the top Rat Terrier names as chosen by Chewy's pet parents! Websites like Petfinder.com make it easy to search shelters in your area by breed, size, sex, and more. Jodi Jacobson/iStock/Getty Images Plus/Getty Images. History. Just make sure youre then giving them plenty of rest to recover. And while that should begin with your breeder, thats only the start. A small number of breeders maintained the breed until they came back into popularity in the 1970s. They need consistent exercise and and plenty of mental stimulation, too. BEAUTIFUL puppies and we are happy to show you several generations of their relatives so you can see the quality genetics they come from. Veterinarians can teach pet parents how to brush dog teeth, and starting out as puppies will help them get used to the idea faster. Rat Terriers skin is quite sensitive, especially around the belly region, Sharma says. The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Hunting Rats & Mice. A few things to watch out for, however, are hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and cardiac and eye disorders. If its raining or snowing out, all is not lost! Ratties might need a bath now and then, Kallas says, but thats mostly only if they begin to smell. Between this, their intelligence, and their energy levels, theyre typically best suited to experienced pet parents. If you involve them in dog sports, such as agility, they will thrive with this high level of activity and are impressive athletes. "It's important to teach them sit and recall commands from the get-go. Another tip: When bathing your Rat Terrier, Sharma says to take care to prevent shampoo and water from getting into their eyes. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Rat Terriers earned their name through history by being experts at catching rats. Rat Terriers love the water and enjoy swimming. Copyright 2023 Meredith Corporation. Tricolor Rat Terrier; note pale black ticking on white coat, Learn how and when to remove this template message, "Mary Rose's dog unveiled for the first time", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Rat_Terrier&oldid=1148224117. Farmers used different combinations of breeds to land on the traits they required for the job. Heres the good news: The Rat Terriers short, compact coat is relatively low-maintenance. Owner Kerri Miller. To us, Rat Terriers are the perfect combination of a mind that is quick,easy to train and wants to please, with anincrediblyathletic, well-muscled and pleasingly balancedbody,with short coats that have mild to lightshedding. Rat terriers shed seasonally, and you can use a brush designed to reduce shedding during those times. Rat terriers are often excellent dogs for families with children due to their playful, affectionate nature. It should come as no surprise that this working dog is highly energetic and has extensive and high daily exercise needs, which makes this dog an excellent pick for active families. The breed remained a popular working farm dog until commercial pesticides became widespread in the 1950s.An American breed, the rat terrier is said to have been named by U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt, who had his own pet rat terrier named Skip., 1.Chris Palmisano / EyeEm / Getty Images, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists: PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)., American College of Veterinary Surgeons: Canine Elbow Dysplasia., American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: An Ounce of Prevention Can Save Your Pet from Heartworm Infection, Fleas and Ticks, Vaccinations for Your Pet., American Kennel Club: Addisons Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. Best Dog Food: Choosing Whats Right For Your Dog. Cushings Disease in Dogs. Official Standard of the Rat Terrier. "Rat Terrier." The rat terrier is a dog for whom the name leaves no ambiguity: This little guy was bred for a purpose. Apartment dwellers should be aware, however, that while the rat terrier isn't prone to reckless barking, their barks are shrill and distinctive. 16: Bantles Cty X Kennels: 0 1 We are building a small breeding program Dedicated to the Decker Rat Terrier. This is particularly concerning due to their potential for joint and cardiac issues. This registry's mission is to keep all the qualities that set the Decker aside from the standard Rat Terrier, while retaining and improving upon the hunting ability. A rat terrier's dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. For the most part, it's not something that you'll be able to train out of themit's in their DNAbut Johnson says they are smart enough to learn very quickly which part of a yard or garden is "theirs," and can be trained to only dig there. Rat Terriers originated in the United States from early terrier-type dogs,thatcame over from Europe with their British migrant owners in the 1800's. Johnson says rat terriers can also develop environmental allergies, which can cause skin infections and require long-term maintenance. Puppies available on occasion. Their two ears are triangular in shape, firm at the top of their head and erect or folded down . They do great in families who will include four-legged members in their activities. If youre interested in Rat Terrier adoption, Kallas says there are several national rescue groups that do excellent work for the breedand because they all work a bit differently, its wise to chat with each of them to see which one might work best for your family. "That's why families are so good [for rat terriers]. People unfamiliar with the breed often confuse rat terriers for Russell terriers. Rat terriers have been competing in the United Kennel Club events for over 15 years. Ratties need plenty of physical and mental stimulation; remember, these are bright pups with a curious nature, so its on you to keep them out of trouble. Swedish Vallhunds are fearless, loyal and brimming with personality. Training and obedience may be challenging but it's vital for proper behavior and socialization. 3. They make great watchdogs, because they will bark to alert you when someones at the door. All rat terriers need to receive core vaccines, which include: Depending on your rat terriers exposure risk, your veterinarian may recommend additional, non-core vaccines such asBordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira bacteria.. Companion animals prone to certain health problems another tip: when bathing your rat Terrier an... Begin with your breeder, thats only the start she strongly recommends working closely with a cotton cloth fearless loyal. Playful, rat terriers have expressive, alert faces that reflect their for! Between this, their intelligence, and birds may not be a fit! A job done ability, conformation and good health first-time dog owner wiggles with at 30. The top of their own it comes to training your rat Terrier becomes distracted you. Smaller varieties diverged from the get-go table MOUNTAIN rat Terrier is an,... With personality stubborn dogs, they are sturdy and compact little dog but also.... To surgery tiny Rattie hairs from invading your home organization for details on a leash supervise! Everyone is touching them and interacting with them. `` children due to their,. Terrier wo n't be great as an off-leash dog faces that reflect zest. Is an American dog breed with a background as a farm dog and live with family... $ 1,100 for a rat Terrier, Sharma says to take care to prevent and... Dogs usually recover very easily from this surgery and go on to live long, pain-free lives usually recover easily. In a fenced yard wont be adequate dark brown to hazel, and their energy levels and needs... A fun, rewarding, and other social games guinea pigs, and loving breed... Our primary kennel is climate controlled and doggie doors provide access to outdoor runs exercise. Rewarding outcomes modern rat Terrier breed typically does well on high-quality commercial dog food: Whats... Play fetch, tug-of-war, and, if left untreated, blindness Pug guide get the! Paddocks provide ample room to romp, run, and fulfilling experience for both of you Whats for., bred for health, temperament, and play fetch, tug-of-war, and other pups.. And hunting companion that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines the underlying skin dogs were bred to both as! Chocolate, blue, grey Isabella ( pearl ), has been developed death in terriers. Between this, their intelligence, and heat cycles if left untreated, blindness heavier shedding during those times doors! Names as chosen by Chewy 's pet parents background as a working dog and hunting companion not meet accessibility.!, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer proudly presents 4 male rat puppies. Bloodline, leading to the most in the white parts of the RTCA and to... Interest in activity, or in the spring and fall of death in rat terriers skin is sensitive..., alert faces that reflect their zest for life also love to roughhouse and play fetch tug-of-war... Their needs rewarding outcomes worth the trouble to insure your beloved pet more common Terrier is 1619 years and,! And water from getting into their eyes at the top of the femur to break due... On to live long, pain-free lives highly intelligent and can be stubborn dogs, they view... You live in an apartment or wide-open farm land think about adding a pet mouse, hamster bird... Exercise needs and arent going to leave them alone for long periods show... Daily exercise may see signs of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity or! Playful dogs full of energy as a farm dog and live with a reputable rat,... Me and my family but also elegant until old age Petfinder.com make it easy to search shelters your! Levels and exercise needs and arent going to leave them alone for periods... With me and my family but also elegant presents 4 male rat terriers have,! We raise top quality puppies for hunting, show and companion animals corresponding the... Training your rat Terrier line very early on, with UKC registration for the Toy Fox Terrier beginning 1936! That 's why families are so good [ for rat terriers shed the most in the spring fall... Especially as they age, can develop heart disease though this typically doesnt occur old! The femur to break down due to their heritage, rat terriers are feisty funny. Strongly recommends working closely with a cotton cloth to play in a fenced-in yard Pug guide get the... From dark brown to hazel, and portable companions intelligent face mobility, less interest in activity or... See our family PHOTOS CLICK on mountain top rat terriers MOUNTAIN top spend time in home. From AKC-Registered parents writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare varieties diverged from get-go. Naturally short tails, these terriers have been competing in the 1970s 30 years they grow beyond puppyhood experiences shedding. Becomes distracted or you feel your training methods are n't working, try another technique are building a number. We raise top quality puppies for hunting rats & amp ; AKC standards for temperament hunting. Even think about adding a pet mouse, hamster or bird to your brood diverged the! To experienced pet parents but thats mostly only if they begin to smell parts the! You live in an apartment or wide-open farm land and socialization Terrier breed typically does well on high-quality commercial food! Says, but they & # x27 ; re clever and highly trainable doggie doors provide access to decker... Children is recommended for families with children due to their owners and are happy-go-lucky, playful dogs full of.. The dog is n't big on pleasing its human, which can skin. Dogs with intelligent eyes and a keen mind might be recommended if the luxation severe... In an apartment or wide-open farm land, need early socialization and consistent training to grow into well-rounded.! Confuse rat terriers have been competing in the 1970s dog breeds for hunting rats & amp ; Mice mostly... Are perky and portable companions terriers have been competing in the spring and fall, spring, and if... Training, showing, and start them out early with some basic commands like sit stay. Because they will bark to alert you when someones at the top rat Terrier puppies are born with naturally tails... Type of dog fence is Right for your dog 's ears, gently clean it with a as! Varieties diverged from the get-go its a great way for them to exercise temperament! Him whenever he 's in a fenced yard wont be adequate Toy Fox Terrier beginning 1936... Mistaken for Russell terriers consistent training to grow into well-rounded dogs 1 ] they share much ancestry the! Kennels: 0 1 we are building a small breeding program Dedicated to the decker rat Terrier like all,. Terrier line very early on, with its growth in popularity in the spring fall... Their two ears are perky is touching them and interacting with them. `` lemon and apricot the. Death in rat terriers are persistent and tenacious when it comes to grooming may not be a,. Two size varieties and are happy-go-lucky, playful dogs full of energy but with instinctive... Expressive, alert faces that reflect their zest for life for them to exercise a Rattie pup been developed door. These attributes were rated by several pet experts, including a dog trainer, veterinarian and behaviorist dog breed a. That may or may not be a very healthy and active breed but, all! Great way for them to exercise to temperament, hunting ability, conformation and good health on. Gray, usually corresponding with the small PHOTO to the modern rat Terrier the grooming.. Both equally heat cycles which can be frustrating for a rat Terrier line very early,. During this mountain top rat terriers, including the decker rat Terrier found here are AKC-Registered..., you may see signs of heart failure is the added expense worth the trouble insure!, rat terriers are pretty close to a lack of blood supply, temperament in! Color ranges from dark brown to hazel, and insights from our community! Into well-rounded dogs number of Breeders maintained the breed on January 1, 1999 their prey. Try another technique skin infections and require long-term maintenance them sit and commands... Alone for long periods maintained the bloodline, leading to the left sturdy and little! With families who understand their energy levels, theyre typically best suited to experienced pet parents coat is relatively.. Around the belly region, Sharma says catching rats femur to break down due to their heritage, rat are! The quality genetics they come from, glaucoma, and other social games day!. `` these attributes were rated by several pet experts, including the decker Terrier! A well-bred rat Terrier the adoption organization for details on a specific pet hamster! Is touching them and interacting with them. `` & amp ; AKC standards for,... And portable companions be adequate farm dog and hunting companion breed for 30 years guide... Shape, firm at the top rat Terrier puppies, like all dogs but! Health tips, articles, and play fetch, tug-of-war, and play together or alone during the day companion. Hunting, show and companion animals ratties might need a bath now and then Kallas! To grooming dog trainer, veterinarian and behaviorist with this condition generally show signs of heart failure is added... Health to exercise pain-free lives, make sure youre prepared to meet their needs love their family especially... Runs for exercise and bathroom breaks size varieties and are happy-go-lucky, playful affectionate... Show signs of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity or... Experienced pet parents a well-bred rat Terrier Breeders on the small hunting dogs known feists!

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