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Description | The Rat Terrier is a well-muscled dog with a deep chest, strong shoulders, solid neck, and powerful
legs. Their bodies are compact but meaty. The ears can be upright or tipped and are carried erect when the dog is alert. They
can be born with short or full length tails, each being left in its natural state or docked at two days of age. The coat colors
include, pearls, sables, chocolates, red and white, tri-spotted, solid red, black & tan, blue & white and red brindle.
Breeders concerned with working dogs are not as fussy about the specifics of the looks. | Temperament | The Rat Terrier is an intelligent, alert and loving dog. Very
inquisitive and lively. This affectionate dog makes an excellent companion for those who will enjoy an energetic dog. They
are good with children, especially if they are raised with them from puppyhood. They are fairly territorial, and for the most
part friendly with strangers. Rat Terriers make good watchdogs. These dogs are quick and very playful and are not yappers.
The temperament of these dogs is pure terrier. The lively, feisty, fearless nature can be found in the best of terriers. They are eager to please and respond and pick training up faster than most dogs. The Rat terrier is a very well
mannered, well rounded dog. They are easy to train and very eager to learn and to please their owner. They love to go with
you and to do what you do. They are also very good swimmers, not bashful or afraid and have no problem with the water. They make good farm dogs as well as excellent family dogs for pets and companionship.
This hardy dog is used for hunting expeditions as well as terrier work. They are easy adjusted as
mature dogs into families with or without children. | Height, Weight | The Rat Terrier comes in three different sizes.
Standard: Height 14-23 inches (35½-58½
cm.)
Standard: Weight 12-35 pounds (5½-16 kg.)
Mid-sized: Height 8-14 inches (20-35½
cm.)
Mid-sized: Weight 6-8 pounds (3-3½ kg.)
Toy-Height: 8 inches (20 cm.)
Toy-Weight: 4-6
pounds (2-3 kg.) | Living
Conditions | Rat Terriers will
do ok in an apartment so long as they get at least 20-30 minutes of exercise a day. They are fairly active indoors and should
have at least a small to medium sized yard. Rat Terriers love to dig, and they can get out of a fenced yard relatively easily.
Provided they have the proper protection, they are able to spend a good amount of time outdoors. They love to be inside the
house and outside to play. | Exercise | The
Rat Terrier needs a good amount exercise. This breed needs to be taken on a daily long walk or jog.
It should have at least 20-30 minutes a day, but would enjoy much more. The breed enjoys challenging
games and outdoor romps. | Life Expectancy | About
15-18 years. | Grooming | The Rat Terrier is easy to groom. An occasional combing
and brushing to remove dead hair is all it needs. |
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