Rat Terrier Hound Mix
The Rat Terrier is an old breed of dog that was originally bred to hunt jackrabbits. This breed is now extinct, but there was a time when it was widely used in the Midwest. Over the years, it has been adapted to work as a hunting dog and was bred with Italian Greyhounds and Whippets. Its strong sense of smell was also a gift from the Beagle.
The Rat Terrier is a very lively breed that enjoys digging and barking. They can become nuisance barkers if left alone. These dogs are usually friendly with other dogs, though they may not always be good company for children. They are very intelligent and don’t back down in a fight, so they make great pets. These dogs also excel in agility, flyball, rally, and therapy work.
Rat Terriers get along well with other dogs in the homestead. They don’t typically spar with other dogs, but they are territorial and size-blind. As such, if you have another breed of dog, you’ll need to watch them carefully. If they become aggressive, they’ll likely strike out to defend their turf. If you want a family dog, a Rat Terrier is the perfect dog for you.
The Rat Terrier has short, dense, shiny fur.
They are available in many different colors, including black, chocolate, apricot, blue, fawn, and tan. The fur requires brushing at least once a week, but it doesn’t shed much. It is considered one of the low-maintenance dog breeds. Moreover, they’re great companions for cats and other small animals, which make them an excellent choice for pet owners who don’t have a lot of time for grooming.
A healthy rat terrier is a happy dog. A rat’s coat can be short and dense, so brushing it regularly is a necessity. However, a rat’s coat sheds heavily in fall and spring. During their heat cycles, it’s important to brush their ears as much as possible. Otherwise, they could get infections. Inflammed ears are a sign of infection. If they’re inflamed, clean the ears thoroughly with a cotton cloth.
The Bluetick Rat Terrier is the most trainable of the rat terrier breeds, so early disciple will ensure a well-adjusted pet. However, they’re sensitive to changes in their environment and can bark occasionally. Hence, you’ll need to spend some time with them so you can train them properly. However, they’re a great choice for families with small children, as they’re happy indoor dogs and can live in any climate.
Originally from America, the Rat Terrier is a small, compact, smooth-coated dog.
It weighs around twelve to thirty pounds and stands between 14 and twenty inches high. The Rat Terrier’s ears are large and stand erect. Its tail has a natural bob. The Rat Terrier’s coat is generally solid white, or a mixture of black, blue, and tan.
Like any breed, the Rat Terrier has some health concerns. The breed can suffer from hip dysplasia, elbow, and patellar luxation. Although this is not a serious condition, it is important to have your puppy examined by a veterinarian as early as possible to prevent future problems. A rat terrier can live up to 18 years. This is an excellent choice for a family with children, as the Rat Terrier is a breed that grows up with people.
Meet Rose Camilla, an expert in the Terrier dog breed and an active writer and publisher. Camilla has been working with Terriers for over 12 years and her passion for them has only grown stronger with time. She has dedicated her life to understanding, training, and writing about Terriers.
