American Rat Terrier, Ratting Terrier, Decker Giant, RT, Rat, Rattie
Overview
The Rat Terrier is a multipurpose companion dog that is capable of hunting rodents and vermin above and below ground as well as coursing small game. He is a sturdy, compact, small-to-medium sized parti-colored dog giving the appearance of elegance and athleticism. His short, smooth coat may come in any variation of pied patterning. Pied is described as comparatively large patches of one or more colors in combination with white. Acceptable colors, with or without "tan points", include the predominate black, or chocolate, red, apricot, blue, fawn, tan, or lemon.
The Rat Terrier has sometimes been described as having a dual personality. He is a fearless, tenacious hunter with seemingly unlimited energy. When he is not hunting, however, the Rat Terrier is an exceptionally friendly companion, getting along well with children, other dogs, and even cats.
| Size | Small |
| Height | Standard: 14-23 inches (35.5-58.5 cm) |
| Weight | Standard: 12-35 pounds (5.5-16 kg) |
| Lifespan | 15-18 years |
| Colors | Black and Tan Blue Brown Tricolor White |
| Origin | United States |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
Rat Terriers will do okay 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. They love to be inside the house and outside to play. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
The Rat Terrier needs a good amount of exercise. This breed needs to be taken on a daily long walk or jog. It should have at least 20-30 minutes a day, but would enjoy much more. The breed enjoys challenging games and outdoor romps. |
| Trainability |
Easy Training: The Rat Terrier is an energetic, alert dog whose curiosity and intelligence make him easy to train. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Low Maintenance: Grooming is only necessary once in a while to maintain upkeep. Occasional trimming or stripping needed. |
| Shedding |
Constant and Seasonal Shedding: Rat Terriers shed moderately year-round and they have a heavier shedding season in the spring and fall. An occasional bath is all he needs to stay clean. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |