About the Rat Terrier

Other Name Feist

Miniature sized Height 8-14 inches, Weight 8- 16 pounds

Body Type The Rat Terrier not only comes in 3 sizes but also two body types. Rats that have a square, long leg look are shown as Class A. Rat Terriers that have a shorter leg length in proportion to body are shown as Class B. The following standards will apply to both classes with the exception of the difference in body to leg length. These are two separate and unique body styles for the Rat Terrier and to keep them this way, it is recommended that they never be bred together. They have been with the Rat since their American existence, and there are no differences other than body style. Both Class A and B dogs share all of the same wonderful rat terrier traits. To deny either style would be to taint the existence of the breed.

Description The Rat Terrier is a well-muscled dog with a deep chest, strong shoulders, solid neck, and powerful legs. Their bodies are compact but meaty. The head is tiny with a pointed muzzle. The ears can be upright or tipped and are carried erect when the dog is alert. They can be born with short or full length tails, each being left in its natural state or docked at two days of age. The coat colors are red and white, tri-spotted, solid red, black & tan, blue & white and red brindle.

Temperament 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 dog. They are good with children especially if they are raised with them from puppyhood. They are fairly territorial, stubborn, and for the most part friendly with strangers. Rat Terriers make good watchdogs. This hardy dog is used for hunting expeditions as well as terrier work. They are better than any cat when it comes to hunting mice! They are not good swimmers and need to be closely monitored around water. 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.

Living Conditions Rat Terriers will do ok in an apartment so long as they get at least 20-30 minutes of exercise a day. 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.

Life Expectancy About 15-18 years.

Grooming The Rat Terrier is easy to groom. An occasional combing and brushing to remove dead hair is all it needs.

Origin Named by the perceptive Teddy Roosevelt, the Rat Terriers were developed in Great Britain originally from Smooth Fox Terriers and Manchester Terriers in 1820. They were brought to the USA in the 1890's. At that time they were all their original color of black and tan. Life Magazine showed President Roosevelt with three black and tan Rat Terriers. American breeders crossed them again with the Smooth Fox Terrier as well as the Beagle and Whippet. The Beagle increased bulk, trailing and hunting ability, along with the red color. Whippet contributed the speed and agility and probably the blue and brindle colors. The Rat Terrier proved to be one of the best in the rat-baiting pits. One Rat Terrier is reported to have killed over 2,501 rats in a span of only seven hours in a rat infested barn. The Rat Terrier is a hard-working farm hand, able to rid an infested barn of vermin with no problem.