RAT TERRIER Breed Standards
The Rat Terrier is an American breed descended from the terriers brought over by English miners and other working class immigrants. These terriers probably included crosses between the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Manchester Terrier and the now extinct white English Terrier. These dogs were used as ratters, and gambling on their prowess in killing rats was a favorite hobby of their owners. Some of these dogs were crossed with Whippets or Italian Greyhounds (for speed) and Beagles (for hunting ability). Eventually, these tough little terriers evolved into today's Rat Terrier. The breed was popularized by President Teddy Roosevelt, who frequently hunted with his Rat Terriers. Many are still used as ratters and squirrel hunters, particularly in the South, where they are sometimes known as "Feists." The hairless variety appeared for the first time in a litter in 1972.
SKILLS: The Rat Terrier is an American breed that originated from a mixture of crosses by early immigrants of this country using old time Fox Terriers and other European Terriers common in the 19th century.
SIZE: These small to medium sized, smooth coated Terriers are muscular and medium boned. Bred primarily for farm and ranch dogs to hunt, protect and guard against vermin and varmints, Rat Terriers have strong jaws and are known for their quick, agile movements, which enable them to kill rats and other vermin and small game. Generally 10-25 pounds, they were not however specifically bred to be Earthdogs and are thus not normally spanned. The Rat Terrier comes in three different sizes. Standard: Height 14-23 inches (35Ð…-58Ð… cm.) Standard: Weight 12-35 pounds (5Ð…-16 kg.) Mid-sized: Height 8-14 inches (20-35Ð… cm.) Mid-sized: Weight 6-8 pounds (3-3Ð… kg.) Toy-Height: 8 inches (20 cm.) Toy-Weight: 4-6 pounds (2-3 kg.)
COAT: The coat colors are red and white, tri-spotted, solid red, black & tan, blue & white and red brindle.
CARE REQUIRED: The Rat Terrier is easy to groom. An occasional combing and brushing to remove dead hair is all it needs.
CHARACTER: 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, hyper dog. They are good with children especially if they are raised with them from puppyhood.
EXERCISE: The Rat Terrier needs a good amount exercise. It should have at least 20-30 minutes a day, but would enjoy much more. The breed enjoys challenging games and outdoor romps.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: 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.
TRAINING: 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. This breed may be slightly difficult to train. They make good farm dogs.
