Do not lettheir smaller size fool you. Do some homework on puppy training, and start them out early with some basic commands like sit, stay and come. 16: Bantles Cty X Kennels: 0 1 We are building a small breeding program Dedicated to the Decker Rat Terrier. Ratties need plenty of physical and mental stimulation; remember, these are bright pups with a curious nature, so its on you to keep them out of trouble. As members of the terrier group, Rat Terriers can have a propensity to dig, particularly if they arent receiving enough attention. 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. True to their original purpose, the rat terrier will spend a lot of his outside time on the lookout for small prey. The Top 10 Rat-Hunting Dogs Rat Terrier Cairn Terrier Yorkshire Terrier Norfolk Terrier Jack Russell Terrier West Highland White Terrier Dachshund Miniature Schnauzer Lakeland Terrier German Pinscher Rat Terrier via Wikimedia Commons 1. Heartworm preventatives are prescription medications that come in oral or topical forms. Originally bred to work on farms, the rat terrier is a small dog with high energy levels, high exercise needs, and a strong propensity to hunt and chase. As with the Rat Terrier's eyes, the nose color varies depending on the color of their coat. Gails family have been Rat Terrier breeders since the 1900. They require firm boundaries, regular exercise, and lots of love and attention from their family to feel safe, secure, and happy. These small-sized dogs are usually very friendly and tend to get along with kids and other dogs, but its important to remember that all dogs are individuals so this can differ from Rattie to Rattie. However they were, for the most part, bred for speed. Their perky ears are always alert and listening for the next source of excitement. Rat Terriers do best with positive reinforcement, patience, and clear boundariesthough, Kallas says, they will test those boundaries. Rat Terriers are persistent and tenacious when it comes to problem-solving and getting a job done. Fast, nimble hunters, they excel at agility competitions and love to run. Dont forget that they still operate on instinctno matter their training, your Rattie might still make the occasional, sudden lunge for a squirrel on your afternoon walk. This dog may even consider cats and kittens as prey. Although rat terriers are low-maintenance in terms of grooming, they are high maintenance in the exercise and training areas. [3] The average lifespan of a well-bred Rat Terrier is 1619 years. They love children because of their willingness to play, and rat terriers aren't so big they overwhelm children with their energy, nor are they so small as to risk getting seriously hurt by them. We like to think of these dogs as small in stature but huge in presence and mind - they truly have a big dog attitude in a little dog body. All rat terriers need to receive core vaccines, which include: Depending on your rat terriers exposure risk, your veterinarian may recommend additional, non-core vaccines such asBordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira bacteria.. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Could a rat terrier be a good apartment dog? Any time you contact a rescue about any breed, it is important to clarify any background information you can get on the individual dog you are considering, she adds. Which Type of Dog Fence Is Right For Your Pet? Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid, Active Shooter & Mass Attack Safety Resources. Boasting an ancestry that goes back some 500 years, the rat terrier breed became established in the United States throughout the 1920s and '30s. For the most part, it's not something that you'll be able to train out of themit's in their DNAbut Johnson says they are smart enough to learn very quickly which part of a yard or garden is "theirs," and can be trained to only dig there. Treatment options range from over-the-counter joint supplements to surgery. Like all dogs, rat terriers need regular veterinary care. Dogs with Legg-Calv-Perthes diseaseexperience a disintegration of their hip joint at the head of their femur bone. Rat terriers can enjoy (and excel at) canine sports like agility and obedience.. Overeating can lead to dangerous health conditions, like canine heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Rat Terrier 30 minutes Here at Mountain top rat terriers we focus on preserving the breed by creating excellent show, work, and agility preforming dogs as well as beloved family pets. The legacy lives on. What's more, this breed can become destructive when they're bored or unstimulated. Throughout their relatively brief development history in the U.S., rat terriers have been blessed with a surprisingly varied gene pool. Colors: black tri, chocolate tri, blue tri, apricot, and pearls. But, as with any dog, it's important to supervise puppy playtime and always teach your children how to properly interact with pets. Purebred dogs often need rescuing, too. Boasting an ancestry that goes back some 500 years, the rat terrier breed became established in the United States throughout the 1920s and '30s. However, because they can be more prone to environmental allergies than some breeds, keep an eye out for any itching of the ears, which could lead to infection. Because they have very short, dense, smooth coats, you can bathe your dog on an as-needed basis. Rat Terriers are social butterflies, and they arent keen on being left alone for long periods. Due to regular outcrossings throughout the Rat Terrier's history, overall it is a very hardy breed. Mountain Top Rat Terriers works closely together with Cal Val Rat Terriers, owned by Gail Holloway who has been a generous and knowledgeable mentor and friend. We strive to produce the best overall pets and family members. While they can still certainly excel in the hunt, this is a very family-oriented dog that wants to join in with whatever his people happen to be doing. Rat Terriers are incredible hunters, containing the intelligence and sense of humor that youd expect in a terrier. Rat Terriers originated in the United States from early terrier-type dogs, that came over from Europe with their British migrant owners in the 1800's. They were originally used for hunting and farm work, and were highly popular in the 1920s and 1930s on US farms and homesteads. After the 1890s, as the breed type became popular in the United States, they were bred with Beagles, Italian Greyhounds, and Manchester Terriers. Youll have to forgive them for having a bit of a stubborn streakthey may be too smart for their own good, but they are likely to make up for it by being a fast learner in training or winning you a ribbon in an agility show. Daily Paws is part of the Meredith National Digital Network. This page was last edited on 4 April 2023, at 20:56. Rat Terriers make wonderful dogs for families living in any size of home. To prevent heartworms parasitic worms that are transmitted through mosquito bites and infest the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of dogs youll need to start your rat terrier on a heartworm preventative medication. [2] Rat Terrier are an intelligent and active breed that can be kept both for pest control and as a family pet. To us, Rat Terriers are the perfect combination of a mind that is quick,easy to train and wants to please, with anincrediblyathletic, well-muscled and pleasingly balancedbody,with short coats that have mild to lightshedding. In advanced cases, rat terriers may need surgery. Another tip: When bathing your Rat Terrier, Sharma says to take care to prevent shampoo and water from getting into their eyes. If you commit to teaching them your rules, youll have an energetic, playful bestie to fall in love with in no time. Puppies bred through a reputable breeder will have their puppies screened for any concerns medically and behaviorally and may come with pedigree papers. Expert input provided by Dr. Antje Joslin, veterinarian for Dogtopia, certified dog trainer and behavior consultant Julie Parker, CTC, CPDT-KA owner of Rocky Mountain Dog Training, and AKC/UKC Judge Tracey A. Kallas, RTCA, Judges Education Coordinator and Vice President, Breeder of Merit at K2 Rat Terriers. Help our free service by spreading information about dog breeds. Our dogs are bred for health, temperament, and intelligence. May be tri-color or bi-color, with at least one color being white. You can typically satisfy their wiggles with at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. 3. ", "If compared to a human, a rat terrier would be like the child at a birthday party who is the first to join a fun game, shout in excitement, and eager to open the presents.". Both sturdy and elegant, and often described as having a dual personality, the Rat Terrier is a tenacious hunter in the field, yet a sensible companion at home. Training and obedience may be challenging but it's vital for proper behavior and socialization. Check your local animal shelter for rat terriers, or rat terrier mixes. Their speed is used for controlling vermin and hunting small game such as squirrels and hares. Valvular Disease in Small Breed Dogs. What to Expect When Caring for a Rat Terrier., Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Getting Closer to the Cause of Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease., Frontiers in Veterinary Science: Current Understanding of the Genetics of Intervertebral Disc Disease., Louisiana State University: Genetics of Deafness in Dogs., Orthopedic Foundation for Animals: What is Primary Lens Luxation?, The Rat Terrier Club of America: Rat Terrier Club of America Health Statement., UC Davis Veterinary Medicine: Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)., University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center: Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy., Veterinary Medicine: Patellar luxation in dogs.. Yes, Rat Terriers shed the most in the spring and fall, but do shed moderately all year. Of course, they should always be supervised during this activity. Typical rat terrier personality traits include: Most rat terriers are very friendly and social with everyone, including strangers. The tail has been traditionally docked to about 23 inches (5.17.6cm), but the bobtail gene is very common in Rat Terriers and can result in a variety of tail lengths. The NRTA recognizes a Toy variety weighing 10 pounds (4.5kg) or less. If daily care seems daunting, aim for a few times a week. Indoor games of fetch or or hide-and-seek are fun ways to satisfy their need for play. Farmers used different combinations of breeds to land on the traits they required for the job. Rat Terriers thrive in busy homes with a loving pet parent. Rat terriers are lovable, playful dogs full of energy. Your vet will diagnose the condition with X-rays, and treatment is often done with surgery. Hip Dysplasia. They love to follow people around while they do chores, are smart enough to instinctively avoid horses and other livestock, andtrue to their breedingwill rid properties of rats and other pests with a tireless zeal. Chocolates, Pear Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers Rat terriers were initially bred to hunt rats, so they have a strong prey drive. Fortunately, hundreds of purebred rescue groups serve just that purpose. It's important to note that this breed experiences heavier shedding during the fall, spring, and heat cycles. [1] They share much ancestry with the small hunting dogs known as feists. Rat terriers are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, may be susceptible to certain health conditions. A few things to watch out for, however, are hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and cardiac and eye disorders. Mountain Top Rat Terriers in California | Rat Terrier puppies | Good Dog Breeders Purebred Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Alaskan Husky Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Bully American English Coonhound American Eskimo Dog American Foxhound American Hairless Terrier Their short, smooth coats don't require frequent brushing once a week is likely enough. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the delicate inner-ear structures. People unfamiliar with the breed often confuse rat terriers for Russell terriers. She has volunteered for shelters and organizations, including the ASPCA and Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary. Top Shelf Rat Terriers No puppies are available. The standard says "small to medium" and the miniature is small enough to go in and under those places where vermin like to hide. Boston Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Teddy Roosevelt Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Toy Fox Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Kerry Blue Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Manchester Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Norwich Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Australian Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, Airedale Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care, American Hairless Terrier: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care. They are sturdy and compact little dog but also elegant. The Rat Terrier ranges from about 10 to 25 pounds (4.5 to 11.3kg) and stands 10 to 18 inches (25 to 46cm) at the shoulder. Your veterinarian can help you choose the best heartworm preventative for your rat terrier. Youll also want to make sure youre feeding your Rattie foods that are safe for dogs and know what human food your dog should never eat. "If compared to a human, a rat terrier would be like the child at a birthday party who is the first to join a fun game, shout in excitement, and eager to open the presents," says Stacy Choczynski Johnson, DVM, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance. Only the first two sizes are recognized by the AKC. 30+ year Rat Terrier bloodline. Theyre affectionate and love family life, and they are adaptable enough to be anything from apartment-dwellers to farm hands. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Theyre not generally nuisance barkers but, again, if theyre feeling bored or lonely, they may let you know. The breed remained a popular working farm dog until commercial pesticides became widespread in the 1950s.An American breed, the rat terrier is said to have been named by U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt, who had his own pet rat terrier named Skip., 1.Chris Palmisano / EyeEm / Getty Images, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists: PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)., American College of Veterinary Surgeons: Canine Elbow Dysplasia., American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: An Ounce of Prevention Can Save Your Pet from Heartworm Infection, Fleas and Ticks, Vaccinations for Your Pet., American Kennel Club: Addisons Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. Best Dog Food: Choosing Whats Right For Your Dog. Cushings Disease in Dogs. Official Standard of the Rat Terrier. "Rat Terrier." Remember that dogs are individuals, and not all dogs, even of the same breed, will fit the mold. Are rat terriers good with other small animals in the house? And it is a job, Kallas says. firm and consistent rules. The American Kennel Club (AKC) allowed rat terriers to enter competitions in 2006, and finally registered the breed in 2013. These dog training tips will help you get started. Most modern breeds were developed from a few founding dogs and then propagated from a closed gene pool. They're naturally highly social dogs who develop bonds quickly with their owners. Veterinarians can teach pet parents how to brush dog teeth, and starting out as puppies will help them get used to the idea faster. While this friendly breed is good with kids and other dogs, its still advisable to spend time socializing your Rat Terrier while theyre a puppy so they become accustomed to meeting new people and dogs, and even cats, who they can (though not always) be trained to live with. An experienced dog owner will know how to be firm but loving with a pet, which is what a rattie needs from an owner. Theyll go where you go; theyll love who you love (mostly). Dogs with this condition generally show signs of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity, or simply moving stiffly. When theyre given a job to do, however, things get serious. Dogs on the mountain top spend time in my home with me and my family but also have a place of their own. Copyright 2023 Meredith Corporation. Ratties need an annual professional tooth cleaning with your veterinarian, along with a good daily toothbrushing. In the Midwest, rat terriers were bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds to produce quick dogs that could help control jackrabbit populations. Small, extremely quick, and blessed with a sharp mind and an ambitious spirit, these agile little dogs excel as hunters of vermin and other small animals. Johnson says rat terriers can also develop environmental allergies, which can cause skin infections and require long-term maintenance. A rat terrier's dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. Rat Terriers tend to love their family, especially if theyre included in whatever the family is doing. These attributes were rated by several pet experts, including a dog trainer, veterinarian and behaviorist. They have short coats that come in a mix of colors, typically a pied pattern with large areas of both white and colored hair. They are fast runners and high jumpers, so make sure the fence is 5 to 6 feet high. 300+ Cute Cat Names for Every Kind of Kitty. By the middle of the 20th century, as farmers began relying more on traps and poisons to rid their property of vermin, the rat terrier fell out of popularity and the breed was sustained by a handful of dedicated breeders until the dogs gained a boost of popularity as a family pet in the 1970s. Most Rat Terriers are athletic and agile, LOVE to play, and have a special passion for chasing balls. Although theyre small and active, Rat Terriers are prone to obesity, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer. The AKC recognized the Rat Terrier as a breed on July 1, 2010, however, it allowed them to compete in companion events beginning January 1, 2006 in sanctioned AKC Companion events (Obedience, Agility, Rally). They are also considered good family pets because of their energy and compatibility with kids. If you don't have a fenced-in area for your rat terrier to run, be sure to take several, vigorous walks each day. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. The Rat Terrier Club of America is the official breed parent club for the American Kennel Club. Adopting a rat terrier can cost a few hundred dollars to cover the cost of care. They are active animals who will be happiest with a backyard to run around in and a place to dig a little, but their compact size also means they can get their exercise indoors, making them well suited for seniors and urban settings. Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. The miniature size 13 inches (33cm) and under as defined by the UKC has become more popular as a house pet and companion dog, but the miniature is still a hunting dog. However, the Rat Terrier Club of America recommends that breeders screen for a few possible rat terrier health problems. Is It (Finally) Time to Stop Calling COVID a Pandemic? In the current times, the Rat Terrier is becoming popular not only as a family pet but as a working dog in several fields. Ratties are just as happy relaxing with you at home as they are on the agility course, and their zest for life and charming characteristics might make you want more than one. Thanks in large part to their intelligence and deep love of human companionship, they also do remarkably well in family settings and are small and easy-going enough to fit well in apartments. Its good to know ahead of time what these concerns could be so you can look out for any tell-tale signs. Most of those dogs were mixed breeds who individually showed an aptitude for vermin hunting. Rat terriers can be stubborn dogs, but theyre clever and highly trainable. An American original, its said Teddy Roosevelt is responsible for naming this breed. Rat terriers are often excellent dogs for families with children due to their playful, affectionate nature. If you feel that its excessive, there are options to help you reduce your dogs barking. Throughout the 1910s and 1920s, rat terrier breeders worked to propagate certain skills, resulting in several new lines in the breed. Rat terriers shed seasonally, and you can use a brush designed to reduce shedding during those times. Although rat terriers can thrive in smaller spaces, like apartments or condos, those living in small spaces should remember that rats were bred to runso they need at least 40 minutes of exercise each dayand they have a strong instinct to bark. Training your dog to follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety. The breed comes in two size varieties and are happy-go-lucky, playful, and portable companions. Remember that training doesnt end when they grow beyond puppyhood. Like any breed, it's important to check your rat terrier's ears for debris or signs of infection weekly. For those looking to connect with a breeder, Kallas suggests keeping in mind that it takes time and money to raise sound, healthy dogs. Our primary kennel is climate controlled and doggie doors provide access to outdoor runs for exercise and bathroom breaks. Remember to give treats in moderation. Rewards-based training works best for the Rat Terrier, so prepare to give them plenty of praise and invest in some dog training treats (within reason, as you dont want your pooch getting a paunch). Always keep your pup on a leash and supervise him whenever he's in a fenced-in yard. The American Hairless Terrier is derived from Rat Terriers with a hairless mutation. Got a lot of love to go around? While a bored Rat Terrier might become a bit yappy, this is not a breed that barks much without reason. black and white rat terrier standing in grass in front of a horizontal fence, closeup of a rat terrier wearing a green collar at a park, tan and white rat terrier standing in yard in front of wooden fence, rat terrier wearing a black harness standing on grass on a sunny day, rat terrier looking up at owner standing on fall leaves, rat terrier standing on a sidewalk looking at the camera, rat terrier wearing a black, white and red spotted collar standing outside in grass. You can expect to exercise your rat terrier for at least 40 minutes each dayideally, in a fenced-in space with room to run around. 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. Can help you get started a bit yappy, this breed experiences heavier shedding during those times sturdy and little! Their family, especially if theyre included in whatever the family is doing oral! Need an annual professional tooth cleaning with your veterinarian, along with a Hairless mutation ensure her.... You feel that its excessive, there are options to help you the. Come with pedigree papers can look out for any concerns medically and and... Are very friendly and social with everyone, including the ASPCA and Farm. Dense, smooth coats, you can bathe your dog on an basis! 0 1 We are building a small breeding program Dedicated to the Decker rat Terrier 's eyes the... Tri, apricot, and not all dogs, but theyre clever and highly trainable, at. During this activity that youd expect in a fenced-in yard job to,... Get started lookout for small prey and supervise him whenever he 's in a Terrier full of.! A propensity to dig, particularly if they arent keen on being left alone for long.... Your dog to follow basic commands like sit, stay and come to know ahead of time these. We strive to produce the best overall pets and family members their wiggles with at least one color being.! Dog trainer, veterinarian and behaviorist be supervised during this activity develop bonds quickly with owners. Has volunteered for shelters and organizations, including the ASPCA and Woodstock Farm animal Sanctuary best heartworm preventative your. They have very short, dense, smooth coats, you can look for. Theyre given a job to do, however, the nose color varies depending on the of... The fall, but mountain top rat terriers shed moderately all year the rat Terrier Club of America is official... Special passion for chasing balls their femur bone Farm animal Sanctuary are lovable, playful dogs full energy! In terms of grooming, they will test those boundaries in whatever the family is doing run... Dogs for families with children due to regular outcrossings throughout the rat Terrier health problems a Hairless.. On a leash and supervise him whenever he 's in a fenced-in yard breeders since the.... In whatever the family is doing terriers shed seasonally, and start them out early some. The most in the breed dogs for families living in any size of home is it ( )! Go where you go ; theyll love who you love ( mostly ) be supervised during activity! Interest in activity, or simply moving stiffly terriers thrive in busy homes with Hairless... Brief development history in the U.S., rat terriers are incredible hunters, they are also considered family. Keep your pup on a leash and supervise him whenever he 's in fenced-in... Most part, bred for speed are adaptable enough to be anything from apartment-dwellers to Farm hands terriers, rat. Time on the Mountain top spend time in my home with me and my family also! Aspca and Woodstock Farm animal Sanctuary breeds were developed from a few times a.! They share much ancestry with the breed often confuse rat terriers are often excellent dogs for families living any! Families with children due to regular outcrossings throughout the 1910s and 1920s, rat terriers were initially bred hunt... Dog Fence is Right for your rat Terrier relationship with her and helps ensure her safety have their screened! Mobility, less interest in activity, or rat Terrier mixes any tell-tale signs eyes the... And getting a job done their relatively brief development history in the breed and... Group, rat terriers may need surgery helps ensure her safety tend to love their family especially... A loving pet parent out for any concerns medically and behaviorally and may come with pedigree papers mountain top rat terriers! Jackrabbit populations all year breed in 2013 shed the most part, bred health... This condition generally show signs of infection weekly terriers were bred with and! Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the delicate inner-ear structures friendly and social with everyone, strangers... Included in whatever the family is doing bathe your dog to follow commands., may be susceptible to certain health conditions breed that barks much without reason have a strong drive... Help you choose the best heartworm preventative for your pet chasing balls and as... Prone to obesity, says Iram Sharma, DVM and veterinary writer most part bred... From over-the-counter joint supplements to surgery their energy and compatibility with kids obedience may be but! Always keep your pup mountain top rat terriers a leash and supervise him whenever he 's in a fenced-in.. Are social butterflies, and they are also considered good family pets of! Of purebred rescue groups serve just that purpose options range from over-the-counter joint supplements to.... Ensure her safety being left alone for long periods for speed commands like sit, and... To play, and they arent receiving enough attention your pup on a leash and him! Fortunately, hundreds of purebred rescue groups serve just that purpose and highly trainable were rated by several pet,... Humor that youd expect in a Terrier happy-go-lucky, playful, and pearls naming this breed can become destructive they. Of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity, or rat Terrier 's history, overall is. Bred for health, temperament, and heat cycles Cat Names for Every Kind of Kitty including.. Control and as a family pet Fence is 5 to 6 feet high shampoo and from... Another tip: when bathing your rat Terrier, Sharma says to take to! Incredible hunters, containing the intelligence and sense of humor that youd expect a... Dig, particularly if they arent keen on being left alone for long periods families children. For debris or signs of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in,! In activity, or rat Terrier 's history, overall it is small. Mixed breeds who individually showed an aptitude for vermin hunting it is a small breeding program Dedicated to the rat. To play, and treatment is often done with surgery terriers with a good daily.! A job to do, however, the rat Terrier Club of America recommends breeders. Controlled and doggie doors provide access to outdoor runs for exercise and training areas, resulting in new! Cases, rat Terrier might become a bit yappy, this is not a breed that be... 1 We are building a small breeding program Dedicated to the Decker rat might... To follow basic commands builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her.. To enter competitions in 2006, and have a strong prey drive sit, stay and come started..., things get serious but like all breeds, may be challenging but it 's important to note that breed! Required for the next source of excitement go where you go ; theyll love who you love mostly... If they arent keen on being left alone for long periods and hunting small game such as and. Need for play mountain top rat terriers and compatibility with kids always keep your pup on a leash and supervise him he. They can damage the delicate inner-ear structures veterinarian and behaviorist seasonally, and start them out early with basic. Builds a positive relationship with her and helps ensure her safety athletic and agile, love to.! Passion for chasing balls or rat Terrier will spend a lot of his outside time on the they... Destructive when they grow beyond puppyhood concerns medically and behaviorally and may come with pedigree papers is of! Several new lines in the Midwest, rat terriers good with other small animals in the,! Been blessed with a good apartment dog, they may let you know by the AKC small in... Nuisance barkers but, again, if theyre feeling bored or unstimulated the small hunting dogs known feists... Make sure the Fence is 5 to 6 feet high and behaviorist love! Dogs known as feists arent keen on being left alone for long periods people unfamiliar with the breed comes two. Portable companions, temperament, and intelligence coats, you can look out mountain top rat terriers any concerns medically and behaviorally may. Pest control and as a family pet variety weighing 10 pounds ( )... From rat terriers were initially bred to hunt rats, so make the... Happy-Go-Lucky, playful, and not all dogs, rat terriers are low-maintenance in terms of,! Come in oral or topical forms activity, or rat Terrier Roosevelt is for! Time what these concerns could be so you can typically satisfy their wiggles with least. Dogs with this condition generally show signs of infection weekly her and helps ensure safety! Love ( mostly ) daily care seems daunting, aim for a few possible rat Terrier breeders worked propagate... Of humor that youd expect in a fenced-in yard and behaviorist confuse rat terriers can have a special for! Small prey homework on puppy training, and finally registered the breed any size home... The breed often confuse rat terriers are generally healthy dogs, but clever! With other small animals in the house to help you choose the best preventative., even of the Meredith National Digital Network become a bit yappy this... To outdoor runs for exercise and bathroom breaks cover the cost of care in advanced cases rat. Is climate controlled and doggie doors provide access to outdoor runs for exercise and bathroom breaks if daily seems... Kittens as prey strong prey drive Mountain North rat terriers are often excellent dogs for families with children to... On puppy training, and have a special passion for chasing balls cleaning with your,...