Learn More About Rat Terrier

Summary

The Rat Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog that belongs to FCI Group 3, Terriers. He is characterized by a slim but muscular physique. The head is moderately broad with a pronounced stop and a powerful jaw. The ears are set high and can be worn erect or semi-erect with a fold. The Rat Terrier has an elegant gait and shows a certain elegance in his posture. This breed does not differentiate between performance and show lines and is considered a uniform breed.

Character

Are you looking for a lively companion who will keep you on your toes? Then the Rat Terrier could be just the thing for you! This breed is known for its intelligence and alertness. Despite their small size, they are courageous and can be very alert, making them excellent watchdogs. You'll probably find that your Rat Terrier will always keep you updated when someone is at the door! Another notable feature of the Rat Terrier is its playful temperament. He loves to romp and play and is often an endless source of entertainment. But be careful, his energy can sometimes seem limitless! It is important that you are prepared to provide your Rat Terrier with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Otherwise, he may become bored and prone to unwanted behavior such as digging or chewing. In terms of its people-oriented nature, the Rat Terrier is a breed that is closely tied to its family. He is very loyal and will often "stick" - he always wants to be near you. This means that he must learn to stay alone without feeling undue stress. It is therefore important to train him to be alone gradually and to ensure that he has enough to do when you are not there. As a terrier, the Rat Terrier also has a strong hunting instinct. He is attracted to small, fast-moving objects and may chase after a squirrel or cat if not properly trained. It is advisable to keep him on a leash when you are in areas where he might pursue his passion for hunting. When it comes to training, the Rat Terrier is intelligent, but sometimes a bit stubborn. It is important to start training early and be consistent but loving. Positive reinforcement often works best with this breed. The Rat Terrier also has a talent for canine sports such as agility and can excel in activities that challenge both his body and mind. In conclusion, the Rat Terrier can be a wonderful companion for those who are willing to invest in his training and employment. His intelligence, alertness and playful temperament make him an entertaining and loyal member of the family.

What to Expect

The Rat Terrier, an American original with a breed name said to have been coined by Teddy Roosevelt, is a compact, tough, smooth-coated dog used as an exterminator. RTs come in two sizes and are cheerful, playful and wearable companions.

Care

The Rat Terrier can thrive as a city dog ​​if it gets regular exercise and mental stimulation. He generally gets along well with children, but it is important that interactions are supervised, especially when the children are very young. The Rat Terrier can also get along with cats and other pets if introduced to them from an early age.

Training & Education

When it comes to education and training, the Rat Terrier brings a lot of energy and intelligence. It is ideal for dog sports such as agility, obedience and flyball. It is important to exercise this breed both physically and mentally, but you should be careful not to "over-work" the dog. Sometimes Rat Terriers can become "ball junkies," which is why it's important to offer them a variety of activities and limit ball play. An important skill to teach a Rat Terrier is impulse control. Because they have a strong hunting instinct, it can be difficult for them to control themselves when they see something interesting. Train recall and practice in safe areas. It is also advisable to introduce him to other animals in a controlled environment to manage his hunting instinct.

Nutrition & Grooming

The Rat Terrier benefits from a balanced diet tailored to his needs. A combination of high-quality dry and wet food is often a good choice. Make sure that the food has a high meat content and is free of artificial additives. When it comes to care, the Rat Terrier is relatively easy to care for. He has a short, smooth coat without an undercoat that only requires occasional brushing. The Rat Terrier sheds moderately and copes well with the climate in Germany, although he should wear a dog coat in colder weather as he has no undercoat to keep him warm.