Whoosh! That’s the sound of a Rat Terrier zipping by, ears flapping in the wind and a glint of pure joy in its eyes. Often mistaken as a small tornado, this breed enjoys nothing more than a good chase, whether it’s a squirrel, a ball, or its own tail. Highly energetic with a mind sharper than a Shakespearian sonnet, the Rat Terrier breed is proven to be a remarkable addition to a family; often transforming an otherwise boring day into a heartwarming, belly-laugh inducing experience.
The Rat Terrier, colloquially dubbed as the ‘Rat’, is a small to medium-sized American dog breed, named for its proficiency in controlling pests, specifically rats. Despite the unassuming title, these vivacious canines are less like the rodents they hunt and more like mischievous elves with a propensity for cuddles.
If you’re considering adopting a new family member and have an inexplicable fondness for never-ending games of fetch and a couch companion who is just as comfortable watching Netflix as they are exploring the great outdoors, let me tell you, people; you just might not need to look any further.
With their muscular physique, intelligent gaze and a variety of colors that could rival a painter’s palette, Rat Terriers immediately stand out amongst the crowd of canine breeds. Don’t be fooled by their petite size; this breed packs an overpowering punch in personality and charm! They are multi-talented, often showing competency in agility, obedience, and performing tricks.
Their history is just as rich and interesting as the breed itself. Originating in the United States, Rat Terriers were bred for the practical purpose of pest control on farms (thus the ‘ratty’ title). This canine’s lineage brims with a number of noteworthy breed combinations, including Smooth Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers, and the Old English White Terrier (now extinct). The Rat Terrier, therefore, inherited its love for the chase, quick reflexes, and an age-defying amount of boundless energy.
But enough of the history lesson, let’s get down to how a Rat Terrier can fit into your family dynamic and bring an irreplaceable touch of joy, surprise, and love into your home.
Rat Terriers may have inherited their hunting prowess and agility from their ancestors, but they also possess another endearing quality: a deep-rooted affection for their human families. These dogs form strong bonds with their loved ones and show an unbending loyalty that holds firm, even in the face of adversity.
Despite their small size and lithe build, Rats are bursting with energy and enthusiasm. They are like the energizer bunny that keeps going and going—but instead of a drum, they wield a boundless love for life and a readiness to shower affection that is at once endearing and entertaining.
If you have a house teeming with lively children, a Rat Terrier is a perfect fit. This breed is known to get along famously well with kids. They enjoy the bustle and energy children bring, often engaging in playful bouts and games that greatly contribute to strengthening the bond. Their small yet sturdy build also means they can keep up with the boisterous playtime without fret of easily getting hurt.
This doesn’t mean though that they can be left alone with very small children. Supervision is a must to ensure both the dog and child remain safe. Keep in mind, even if your Rat is as gentle as a lamb, it’s not a good idea to leave any dog alone with a child under the age of six.
Discipline plays an essential role in raising a Rat Terrier. They are intelligent and curious, making them fast learners. However, they can also display a stubborn streak. With positive reinforcement based training methods, your Rat Terrier will quickly learn his drills, making him a wonderful pet that is well-behaved and a joy to be around.
If you’re a bookworm, or someone who likes to dwell in peace and quiet, don’t worry! Rat Terriers can demonstrate adaptable demeanors. They possess a surprising love for warmth and comfort, and are more than happy to laze around, snuggle, or curl up at your feet as you read, watch TV, or even work on your laptop.
As far as health goes, Rat Terriers are, thankfully, a pretty robust breed. Their typical lifespan ranges from 15 to 18 years, and they are known for keeping their puppy-like energy well into old age. Like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions but are generally considered a healthy breed.
In addition to their social nature and undying affection for their human family, Rat Terriers are fairly easy to groom. Their short, dense coat requires minimal maintenance — typically just a weekly brushing to keep shedding in check. Perhaps one of the best things about a Rat Terrier is that they remain puppy-like all their lives, keeping their charm, energy, and endearing qualities well into their senior years.
Rest assured, a Rat Terrier in your family will bring boundless joy, laughter, and happiness. Yet like any breed, it is important to remember that a dog is a lifetime commitment. It requires time, patience, love, and consistency. But for this commitment, your Reward – a Rat Terrier – will offer you love and companionship that’s worth much more than the effort it takes to bring them up. In sum, if you’re seeking a lively, loving, and loyal addition to your family, you can’t go wrong with a Rat Terrier.
