Rat Terrier

Origins and History

The Rat Terrier originated in the United States in the early 20th century as a farm‑yard ratter. Developed from a mix of smooth‑coated terriers (often the Black‑and‑Tan Terrier), Toy Manchester Terriers, and later infusions of Whippet, Italian Greyhound, and other small sighthounds, the breed was refined for speed, tenacity, and a strong prey drive. By the 1920s Rat Terriers were widely used to control vermin on farms and homesteads across the Midwest. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1996, and it has since become a popular companion and show dog.

General Characteristics

• Compact, muscular build with a balanced, athletic silhouette.
• Alert, confident, and energetic temperament; eager to please but independent.
• Originally bred for vermin control; today excels in agility, obedience, and earthdog trials.

Physical Specifications

• Height: 10‑18 inches (25‑46 cm) at the withers for both sexes; males may be at the upper end of the range.
• Weight: 10‑25 pounds (4.5‑11.3 kg); a well‑conditioned adult should have a lean, muscular appearance.

Coat and Color

• Coat types: smooth, broken (medium length), or wiry. All three are accepted in the AKC standard.
• Texture: dense and close‑lying for smooth; medium length with a slight wave for broken; harsh, dense, and weather‑resistant for wiry.
• Accepted colors: any combination of white, black, tan, chocolate, blue, red, or tricolor. Common patterns include solid, tuxedo, parti‑color, and patched.

Temperament Considerations

Rat Terriers are intelligent and highly motivated by food and play, yet they retain a strong independent streak inherited from their terrier ancestry. Their high prey drive can lead to chasing small animals, so impulse control is essential.

Training Essentials

• Begin socialization early (4‑12 weeks) with people, children, and other pets to temper territorial instincts.
• Provide at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily; mental stimulation through puzzle toys or scent work reduces boredom‑related behaviours.
• Use positive‑reinforcement methods; harsh corrections may trigger fear or aggression.
• Focus on recall, leash manners, and “leave it” commands to manage the breed’s instinct to chase.

Daily Grooming

• Brush smooth‑coated dogs weekly with a soft‑bristle brush; wiry coats benefit from a weekly hand‑strip or a firm brush to remove dead hair.
• Bath as needed—generally every 4‑6 weeks or when the dog becomes dirty; avoid over‑bathing to preserve natural oils.
• Trim nails regularly (every 3‑4 weeks) to prevent overgrowth; clean ears weekly to avoid wax buildup.
• Dental care: brush teeth several times a week or provide dental chews to reduce plaque.

Show Preparation

• Begin a grooming schedule 2‑3 weeks before the show: bathe, dry, and brush the coat to a smooth finish.
• For wiry‑coated dogs, hand‑strip or clip to the standard length (approximately 1/8‑1/4 inch) and finish with a light coat‑spray for sheen.
• Trim the hair on the ears, face, and feet to the AKC prescribed length; ensure the tail is carried high with a slight curve.
• Check that the nails are filed smooth and the teeth are clean for a polished ring presentation.

Common Health Issues

• Patellar luxation (Grade I‑III) – routine orthopedic screening recommended.
• Legg‑Calvé‑Perthes disease – early radiographic evaluation for young dogs.
• Hip dysplasia – hip radiographs and breeding clearances advised.
• Allergies (skin and food) – manage with diet trials and hypoallergenic shampoos.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts – ophthalmic exams recommended annually.
• Mitral valve disease – cardiac auscultation and echocardiography for breeding stock.

General Care

• Exercise: Minimum 60 minutes of vigorous activity daily; includes walks, play, and mental challenges.
• Nutrition: High‑quality protein‑rich diet appropriate for size and activity level; monitor weight to maintain a lean condition.
• Lifespan: Typically 12‑18 years; regular veterinary wellness exams help detect age‑related issues early.

Disclaimer: While the information presented reflects current breed standards and veterinary consensus, individual dogs may vary. Always consult a qualified veterinarian or AKC‑registered judge for breed‑specific advice.