Rat Terrier

Rat Terriers live 12 to 18 years, one of the longer lifespans of any breed. Patellar luxation, dental crowding, and certain heart conditions occur in the breed. Incorrect bites and malocclusions are also noted. Overall this is a very hardy, long lived dog when sourced from responsible breeders. Routine vet visits keep most Rat Terriers healthy well into their senior years.

The short, smooth coat is among the lowest maintenance of any breed. Brush once a week with a rubber mitt to remove loose hair. Bathe monthly or when your dog gets into something. Clean ears weekly, trim nails every three to four weeks, and brush teeth regularly. That covers everything with this breed.

Your Rat Terrier needs 30 to 45 minutes of active exercise daily. Walks, fetch, and agility style games match their lively energy well. Secure fencing matters since they have strong prey drive and will pursue anything that moves. Mental stimulation through scent games and training keeps their sharp minds satisfied.

Rat Terriers are intelligent and generally easier to train than most terrier breeds. Positive reinforcement works well. Start socialization early since they can be reserved with strangers. Their prey drive needs consistent management. Keep sessions short and engaging since they bore quickly with repetition.

Feed a quality small breed formula with good protein twice daily. Rat Terriers can gain weight if overfed and under exercised. Measure portions and keep treats minimal. Two meals per day is better than one. Fresh water should always be available.

The Rat Terrier developed in the United States as an all purpose farm dog and hunting companion, descended from a mix of Smooth Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers, and other working terrier breeds brought by English immigrants. American farmers valued them for killing rats and other vermin with remarkable efficiency. President Theodore Roosevelt reportedly gave the breed its name after his Rat Terriers cleaned the White House of a rat infestation. The breed gained AKC recognition in 2013.