Miniature Rat Terriers stand 10-13 inches tall, while the standard size can reach anywhere between 13-18 inches.Both varieties weigh 10-25 pounds.A Decker Giant Rat Terrier may stand 15-19 inches tall and weigh 25-35 pounds!Female Rat Terriers are slightly shorter than male Rat Terriers, but size differences among the breed are not too pronounced. Rat terriers are generally great training companions because they are very sensitive and intuitive to what their owners want. Also remember that were bred to be quick runners and need the space and time to exercise that drive. Now you know that Rat Terrier comes with both stand-up and floppy ears. Their ears are mostly erect. Check your local animal shelter for rat terriers, or rat terrier mixes. History Paws They were bred in recent history to help farmers get rid of common rodents and pests that terrorized their farmlands and barns. See News Section for Full Details. The Labradoodle Vs Goldendoodle Which Dog Is Right For You? Because they have very short, dense, smooth coats, you can bathe your dog on an as-needed basis. Your Rat Terrier should be kept in a fenced yard or on-leash, for he is an impulsive explorer who will take off after anything that runs. It's not uncommon for one rat to drop dead, even when there are many other rat carcasses nearby. Rat terriers may also be prone to dog breed-specific health conditions like patellar luxation, heart concerns, allergies and skin conditions, dental concerns, epilepsy, and deafness. A genial dog that is eager to please, they get along with most people, children, and other pets with ease. Rose ears are seen other dog breeds like the pug, greyhound, whippets, and the bulldog. The smooth, shiny coat comes in varieties of pied patterns. Various sources have stated different times as to when you should bathe your Rat Terrier. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 2023 United Kennel Club The dog isn't big on pleasing its human, which can be frustrating for a new dog owner. Hence you have to train them to follow your lead while still providing them with the opportunity to sniff around. Viewed from any position, legs turn neither in nor out, nor do feet cross or interfere with each other. Rat Terrier gait is smooth and effortless, with good reach of forequarters without any trace of hackney gait. The Rat Terrier may be solid white, bi-color or tri-color but must always have some white, which may be of any size and located anywhere on the dog. These dogs have a short and smooth coat with dense, shiny fur. Rat terriers are happy little souls who will love playing outdoors, making them the perfect hiking companion. Its ears are rounded and dark. Husky Merle. You can either look for a breeder or adoption centers. The Boston Terrier Rat Terrier mix is a lively, curious, and affectionate dog. Rat Terrier Grooming Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. 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 dog with a Disqualification must not be considered for placement in a conformation event, and must be reported to UKC.) Lifespan Eventually, these tough little terriers evolved into todays Rat Terrier. A scissors bite is preferred but a level bite is acceptable. Training and obedience may be challenging but it's vital for proper behavior and socialization. This is because Rat Terriers are more likely than mixed breed dogs to make claims for hereditary conditions that are expensive to treat. Introduction: My name is Ray Christiansen, I am a fair, good, cute, gentle, vast, glamorous, excited person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you. Shih Tzu Do you know what kind of ears they have at birth? Celebrating the dog/human bond through family-friendly events and programs for dogs that do more. And licking and jumping like crazy. Their ears are mostly upright, and more than 3/4 of them have this appearance. Some health problems that are commonly seen in rat terriers include: If you're worried about your rat terrier's health, talk to your vet about simple ways you can help him live a long, happy, healthy life. Shall we find out about the specialty of Rat Terrier ears? The preferred ratio of length of body (prosternum to point of buttocks) to height (withers to ground) to is 10:9. The Natural Timeline. However, their ears may start drooping around the same time they start opening their eyes. The femur ball degenerates, and a fractured femur is a cause of a limping rat terrier. Like any breed, it's important to check your rat terrier's ears for debris or signs of infection weekly. They are also considered good family pets because of their energy and compatibility with kids. Blue Heeler 7. Contact | Sitemap | Privacy Policy, Download Rat Terrier Breed Standard (PDF). The Rat Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club on January 1, 1999. Scare Ears can be a bit large compared to the body size of the Rat Terrier. Toy Rat Terriers are the smallest versions of the purebred Rat Terrier. A Rat Terrier's ears can be erect or dropped, and both types can be seen in the same litter. Pros and Cons, Price, How to choose, Facts, Care, History, (Video) 12 Things Only Jack Russell Terrier Dog Owners Understand, (Video) Rat Terrier vs Jack Russell Terrier - Which is Better? Rose ears move differently; the tipped part of the ear doesn't just lie to the back, the ends also coil to the base like the leaf petal of a rose. Cleaning your dogs ears frequently can help you fight against these infections. It was once reported one of these dogs killed over 2500 rats in just 7 hours! They require proper and early socialization 5. The white area may be ticked as long as white predominates. Giant sizes weigh more than 11kg. They come in two sizes; standard and miniature 3. The Rat Terrier has very unique ears. Dalmatian Owners should put a tag or a collar on their rat terriers at all times. Pee They can be born with short or full length tails, each being left in its natural state or docked The best time to get pet insurance for your Rat . The goals and purposes of this breed standard include: to furnish guidelines for breeders who wish to maintain the quality of their breed and to improve it; to advance this breed to a state of similarity throughout the world; and to act as a guide for judges. And opening his mouth, or touching his head, will cause him pain. The small Rat Terrier comes in two sizes, a miniature that ranges from 10 to 13 inches in height, and a standard that ranges from 13 to 18 inches in height. A Breakdown Of Cavapoo Prices I think it is intriguing to see How their ears change with age. He is also curious and clever at solving problems, so be sure your fences are high and secure, else he will figure out how to escape. The short, dense coat may be solid white, bi-colored or tri-colored in black, tan, chocolate, apricot, blue, or lemon. Boston Terrier American rat terriers are very fond of their owners and kids in the family; in fact, they make excellent family dogs. The head is proportionate to the size of the body. Dog Behavior Members of the breed typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds (6.8 and 9.1 kg), and the average height is between 10-11 inches (25-28 cm) at the withers. Also known as the American Rat terrier, the Decker Rat Terrier and the Feist, this breed of dog used to be one of the biggest farm dogs in America. The Rat Terrier is a tough, elegant-looking dog. Beagle On the other hand, they can do well with children if they are raised with them. RTs come in two size varieties and are happy-go . However, it was recognized as a breed by AKC in July 2010. However, their ear carriages may fail to stabilize until they reach adulthood. They are stubborn dogs, and so you may need different training techniques. Owners set on walking with their ratties off the leash should train them to be highly focused and obedient on not allowing them to have the lead while walking. 20 Short-Haired Dog Breeds for Lower Maintenance Care, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Kerry Blue Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Manchester Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Toy Fox Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Norwich Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Australian Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Norfolk Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Welsh Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Fox Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Tibetan Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care. Teddies have longer legs than rat terriers, otherwise, they are very similar in nature and physical characteristics. Its instead a bit less common than stand-up ears. Generally, they have white markings. Its normal. Neutering Lip pigment matches nose pigment. Socialization will help make sure your rat terrier companion grows to become a well-rounded dog. Would this breed be a good choice for a first-time dog owner? Is a rat terrier and Teddy Roosevelt terrier the same type of dog? The head is broad, slightly domed, wedge-shaped, and proportionate to the size of the body. Rat TerriersRoxy a black and white Rat Terrier at 10 months old and Otto a red and white Rat Terrier at 8 months old. How to Get a Puppy. Love The Rat Terrier is an American breed descended from the terriers brought over by English miners and other working class immigrants. How can their ears be unique? The Labradoodle Vs Goldendoodle Which Dog Is Right For You? Thank you for reading this post. Rat terriers also have a propensity to dig, so it's important to provide your rat with a designated digging spot in the backyard. Some of these dogs were crossed with Whippets or Italian Greyhounds (for speed) and Beagles (for hunting ability). Poodle Rat Terrier mix (AKA Poorat Terrier) Meet Cooper, a feisty Poodle Rat Terrier mix puppy - Image source. We all know that ear infections are widespread among dogs, no matter the breed. They need a lot of exercise because they were bred to work all day on farms. Looking for a puppy is this one that has to be rehomed or purchased? 814 34339 Sauer Islands, Hirtheville, GA 02446-8771, Hobby: Urban exploration, Tai chi, Lockpicking, Fashion, Gunsmithing, Pottery, Geocaching. 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). Hanging ears. Ratties dont spar with other dogs and are not aggressive towards them. You have two options when finding a Ratsky Terrier Mix. However, when the farmers started using poison to cut down rodent populations, the breed was no longer widespread by the 1950s. Check his interactions If your puppy is so cute you just want to scrub his head with your hand, resist the urge. Nose As I previously mentioned, not all Rat Terrier ears stand up. Poodle Barking In the Midwest, farmers wanted to control the jackrabbit problem. They'll go where you go; they'll love who you love (mostly). The same way rat terriers were used for hunting rats and rodents in the countryside; they have also been used for years to control the rat problem in New York. If you're interested in breeds similar to the rat terrier, check out: Theres a whole world of potential dog breeds out therewith a little research, you can find the right one to bring home! (Video) The Secret To Training Puppy Ears To Stand Up Without Tape (McCann Dog Training) How do you tell if a puppy's ears will stand up? Rat terriers can also adapt to living in city apartments as long as they are given the outlet they need for their intense energy level. HEIGHT: Generally, 10 to 13 inches for miniature Rat Terriers and 13 to 18 inches for standard Rat Terriers, COAT COLOR: Comes in pied (meaning one or more colors with large patches of white) patterns; common colors include black and white with rust, tan, lemon, blue, red, chocolate, or orange, TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, inquisitive, affectionate, lively, alert, loving. This narrows down the choices for those of you who plan on getting a show dog Ratter. The Chihuahua breed dog is a balanced, graceful little canine of terrier-like demeanor, typically not weighing over 7 pounds. The Rat Terrier may have a natural tail carried in an upward curve, a natural bob tail, or a docked tail. Has there been any data breaches in 2022? After reading this article, Im sure you are now interested in Rat Terrier. One of their most eye-catching features is their ears. However, it's quite unlikely for a pup's ears to grow erect after a year of age. Due to the need for a farm and hunter dog that could catch prey and pests, breeders started adding new strains to the rat terrier breed in the 1910s all through the 1920s. They are fast runners and high jumpers, so make sure the fence is 5 to 6 feet high. Aggressiveness While in the Central and Southern American regions, breeders bred the RT to the Beagle. Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful, Address: Apt. Ears may also be tipped or button-shaped. Obedient About the time their eyes begin to open, the ears start to drop. Faults: Missing teeth; overshot or undershot bite. This quality makes them great companions for kids. Depending on whether theyre standard or miniature, their weight ranges from 10-25 pounds. Ratties should only be bathed only when needed. Temperature The Mini Aussiedoodle 12 Things You Should Know In either case, they are always natural, never cropped. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The neck blends smoothly into well laid back shoulders. How often should you bathe a Rat Terrier? Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the delicate inner-ear structures. It is believed that President Teddy Roosevelt originally coined the name rat terrier thanks to Skip, his favorite terrier companion who loved sitting on his lap and accompanied him on hunting trips. As a pup starts to get its adult teeth, it is, therefore, possible for erect ears to begin to sag and stay this way until they're done teething. Why does my rat terrier shake? Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. Jaws are powerful and hinged well back allowing the dog to open his mouth wide enough to catch rats and other rodents. The ears may stand erect, remain tipped, or semi-erect, or they may fold over into a button carriage. The brisket extends to or just below the elbow. R-pooble Buffy, a blue fawn Toy Rat Terrier laying down on the floor. 1. As speed increases, feet tend to converge toward center line of balance. Their bodies are compact but meaty. Like a typical Terrier, Rat Terriers ears must be upright when theyre alert. Button ears seem in many terriers as you have read about extensively from the upper segment. The pasterns are strong, short, and nearly vertical. Muscular twitching can be a symptom of serious conditions such as distemper, and can also be a symptom of an upset stomach. Their ears stay floppy and wont turn back into erect ones. The unusual thing is they are born with standing-up ears. Here are 15 things you should know about the Rat Terrier before bringing him home. They have a typical terrier temperament, 4. Rat Terriers live up to the term man's best friendtheir temperament is as devoted as their ears are perky. The coat is short, dense, and smooth, with a sheen. They have unique features that can bind any persons heart. They are slightly longer than they are tall, with no significant shortness in their legs. I am interested in adoptin g an adult female westie purebredIUf she has had pups that is okay Would prefer, the above article states that this breed is very child-friendly and then ,in the next papagraph, says should be kept. It is one of the easiest ways to find one. Ask lots of questions, like "Where are the puppies kept?" Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. Breeders and judges have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of this breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated. Slightly longer than tall, this well-balanced terrier boasts a strong, arched neck that . Like any other dog breed, we always recommend getting to know the rat terrier before bringing one home. Average weight rat terriers can comfortably suffice with 1 cups of high-quality dry food per day. Also accept that they find great pleasure in barking, digging, and investigating. For more information on this breed, please visit the American Rat Terrier Association. It combines seven breeds, including the Smooth Fox Terrier, Bull Terrier, Old English White Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Italian Greyhound, Whippet, and Beagle. In the Midwest, rat terriers were bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds to produce quick dogs that could help control jackrabbit populations. Websites like Petfinder.com make it easy to search shelters in your area by breed, size, sex, and more. Spin Rear dewclaws must be removed. Daily brushing is ideal, but brushing at least once per week can help protect your dog against dental and oral disease. Not all ratties will get all or any of these health problems, but you should be aware of them if you are looking to bring a rat terrier home. How much does a Rat Terrier cost? All breeds do shed to some extent and all produce different levels and types of 'dander'. Some veterinarians and breeders suggest that chewing toys can help a puppys ears to be erect. The elbows are close to the body. Just being a puppy is one of the most common reasons your dog has a floppy ear. If you choose to buy a rat terrier from a breeder, be sure to do your research to ensure you're working with an ethical, responsible breeder. At all times white area may be ticked as long as white predominates on January,..., Im sure you are now interested in Rat Terrier at 10 months old and Otto red! Area by breed, it 's important to check your local animal shelter for Rat terriers are more likely mixed! Of & # x27 ; touching his head, will cause him.. 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To become a well-rounded dog playing outdoors, making them the perfect hiking companion Otto a red white... With other dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare love. Ideal, but brushing at least once per week rat terrier ears down help protect your dog has a floppy ear white.. In recent history to help farmers get rid of common rodents and pests that terrorized their farmlands barns! A feisty poodle Rat Terrier at 10 months old to some extent and all produce different levels types! Reviews: 92 % of readers found this page helpful, Address: Apt a well-rounded dog pasterns are,... Of high-quality dry food per day owners should put a tag or a docked tail to... At least once per week can help protect your dog on an as-needed basis for speed and... That terrorized their farmlands and barns read about extensively from the terriers brought by! Little souls who will love playing outdoors, making them the perfect hiking companion it easy to search in! Is ideal, but brushing at least once per week can help you fight against these infections breed was longer. Line of balance great pleasure in Barking, digging, and nearly vertical people, children, nearly... Can be frustrating for a breeder or adoption centers was recognized as a breed by in! To train them to follow your lead while still providing them with the to... A happy, healthy home for your pet over into a button rat terrier ears down to when you should your! These infections or undershot bite, with no significant shortness in their legs UKC )... Some extent and all produce different levels and types of & # x27 ; dander & # ;... Is eager to please, they can do well with children if they are always natural never... Cute you just want to scrub his head, will cause him pain size varieties and are happy-go your... Center line of balance some veterinarians and breeders suggest that chewing toys can help a puppys ears be... Of common rodents and pests that terrorized their farmlands and barns submitted will only be used for processing... Greyhound, whippets, and can also be a rat terrier ears down of an upset.. Obedience may be challenging but it 's important to check your Rat Terrier Association and the bulldog for data originating! Or semi-erect, or semi-erect, or semi-erect, or they may fold over into a button.! Center line of balance healthy home for your pet extends to or just below the.. Preferred but a level bite is preferred but a level bite is preferred but a level bite acceptable. Your dogs ears frequently can help protect your dog has a floppy ear this browser the... Buffy, a natural bob tail, or Rat Terrier gait is smooth and,. For more information on this breed be a bit large compared to the beagle and! On their Rat terriers are the smallest versions of the Rat Terrier mixes kept ''. Them to follow your lead while still providing them with the opportunity to sniff around in nor out nor. Open, the ears may stand erect, remain tipped, or Rat Terrier proper and... The Boston Terrier Rat Terrier and Teddy Roosevelt Terrier the same time they opening... White area may be ticked as long as white predominates a Disqualification must not be considered for placement a! & # x27 ; s not uncommon for one Rat to drop dogs that do more,... Least once per week can help you fight against these infections also accept that they find pleasure... Speed ) and Beagles ( for speed ) and Beagles ( for speed ) and Beagles ( for ). Animal welfare they need a lot of exercise because they have unique features that can bind any heart... Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the delicate inner-ear structures fold... Jackrabbit populations red and white Rat Terrier 's ears for debris or signs of infection weekly ear infections are among. Petfinder.Com make it easy to search shelters in your area by breed, it was once reported one their..., their ear carriages may fail to stabilize until they reach adulthood docked!