Rat Terrier
Terrier Group
Height at Shoulders
Miniature 10-13 in, Standard 13-18 in
Weight
10-25 lbs
Life Expectancy
12-18 yrs
History
The Rat Terrier originated in the United States in the early 1900's after its ancestors were brought over by British Migrants. Beagles, Italian Greyhounds, and Miniature Pinschers were bred in to improve their skills. Rat Terriers were very popular in the 1920's-40's because of their hunting and ratting abilities but eventually, their popularity declined with the introduction of chemical pesticides. Today, they are popular companion animals and multi-purpose working dogs in some fields.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Rat Terriers share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★☆☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★★★★
★★★★☆
★★★☆☆
★★★★★
★★★★☆
Intelligence
★★★★☆
Affection Towards Family
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★★★☆
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★★☆☆
Exercise Needs
★★★☆☆
Energy Level
★★★★★
Sensitivity
★★★★☆
Noise Level
★★★☆☆
Prey Drive
★★★★★
Shedding
★★★★☆
Common Traits
Intelligent, clever dogs who love puzzles and other challenges
Great jumping and digging abilities, which makes for a great escape artist
Shy around strangers but warm up eventually
Chasers that will go after prey regardless of training
Known to bond to items such as toys and generally don't like change
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