Are Rat Terriers Good Family Dogs?
Are rat terriers good family dogs? You already know that rat terriers are small dogs with a strong demeanor. That is what we thought, too. In her book, The Dog’s Tale, the author calls rat terriers hardheaded, quick-tempered, and not too friendly towards strangers.
But in reality, rat terriers are more friendly towards visitors than their own family members. If you want to use them as a pet in your home, you will have no problem whatsoever. However, their behavior towards their master can make some readers shy away from this breed.
Rat Terrier Breed Guide
Breed Group: Terrier Dogs
Motto: “To my mind, the terrier is the only dog that really lives up to his name.”
Appearance
Rat terriers are small but sturdy dogs. They have a hard head with an intelligent face and piercing eyes. Their body is maneuverable, and they have strong legs and feet. Rat terriers come in many coat colors, including black, brown, red, or sesame. Some may also carry patches of tan on their heads and bodies.
Temperament
Rat terriers are quick-tempered and hardheaded, but overall they are gentle dogs that can be very loving towards their family. However, rat terriers can be aggressive with other animals and should only be used as guard dogs or pets in a well-armed home.
Activity Level
Rat terriers are generally active dogs that will require a lot of exercises. They need to be kept on a lead when out in the yard as they have a tendency to chase small animals.
Interesting Facts
Rat terriers were created by British soldiers who recognized the dogs’ skill in hunting rats. If you are looking for an easy-going dog, rat terriers might be a good choice!
Rat Terrier Background Info & History:
Rat terriers were created by British soldiers who recognized the dogs’ skill in hunting rats. The rat terrier is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally used as a pest control animal. Today, rat terriers are popular pets in the UK and North America.
Rat Terrier Temperament & Personality:
Rat terriers are quick-tempered and hardheaded, but overall they are gentle dogs that can be very loving towards their family. They make good guard dogs as well as pets in a well-armed home. Be sure to give your rat terrier plenty of exercises – they need to be kept on a lead when out in the yard, so they don’t chase small animals!
Rat Terrier Trainability:
Rat terriers are generally fastgetters. They train fairly quickly and love to please their owner by learning commands.
Rat Terrier Health :
Standard rat terriers don’t have any major health issues but watch for eye conditions inherited from the dilution gene (see pictures). Rat terries do not tend toward cancer or osteosarcoma – instead, cancers that affect humans often affect rats in the pet population.
Standard rates are average to the small-sized working dog (although toy rat terriers often weigh much less), with a masculine build of very alert and chivalrous expression.
They have color in the straight-haired coat, which is brown ticked, having black or pale tan tips to their ears that end in cartilage during adolescence.
Standard rat terrier dogs can come from curious temperaments that make them good at solving problems even though they’re not bred to work traditionally.
Exercise Requirements for a Rat Terrier:
The Rat Terrier wants to run and play all the time, just like most other terriers. A large yard is a must for this dog! Also, give them plenty of toys to keep them busy so they don’t turn into couch potatoes.
Rat Terrier Lifespan:
A rat terrier typically lives 10 to 12 years. Rat terriers have a fairly high rate of diseases that affect other small dogs, such as hip dysplasia, seizures, and bloat.
The popularity of Rat Terriers:
Rat terriers are some of the most popular dogs in the United States. They are also popular in many other countries.
Feeding Recommendations for Rat Terriers:
Rat terriers are medium to high energy dogs and require about the same food as smaller dogs. A good diet for them includes quality kibble, fresh vegetables and fruit, and water adequate for their size. Caring for a Rat Terrier:
Regular grooming is important for keeping their coats healthy and looking good. Cleaning their ears should be done bi-weekly to avoid infection, and deworming medication can also be given as needed.
Conclusion:
The Rat Terrier is a popular breed of dog that loves running and playing. They require a lot of exercise and have plenty of toys to keep them busy. Like most terriers, they can be prone to health problems if not properly cared for.
