Called the Decker or Decker Giant, it was named after breeder Milton Decker who created a larger hunting companion and are recognized by the National Rat Terrier Association (NRTA, see "Breed recognition" below). Dogs with this condition generally show signs of discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity, or simply moving stiffly. We have aquired Diamond Valley Patches and he has really been a top producer for our kennel. These attributes were rated by several pet experts, including a dog trainer, veterinarian and behaviorist. Always make sure youre feeding your Rat Terrier the proper amount. socialization and training is a must. "There's a lot to early socialization," says Dennis Riordan, DVM, of the Riordan Pet Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. They are determined and will do whatever it takes to get them access to the most rewarding outcomes. Theyre built like a doggie gymnast, muscular and ready to work, and they come in two sizes: Miniature (10-13 inches) and Standard (13-18 inches). Rat Terriers do best with positive reinforcement, patience, and clear boundariesthough, Kallas says, they will test those boundaries. Your rat terrier's diet will depend largely on her size, age, and activity levels, but you can expect to feed her between .25 cups (for dogs weighing 10 pounds or less) and 2 cups per day (for dogs weighing between 30 and 40 pounds) of high-protein, high-quality dog food. If you live in an apartment, a rat terrier can do well without a yard as long as they get plenty of dedicated exercise time. Like many terriers, the rat terrier is highly intelligent and can be extremely stubborn. The coat of the rat terrier is shorter and glossier, however, consisting of a dense, single coat that can be found in a variety of colors, of which black, tan, grey, blue, and apricot are the most common. With the proper training and socialization, they can also be friendly with strangers and other medium-size to larger pets. However, there are a few potential health issues for which the national breed club recommends testing. Rat terriers need daily exercise to stay happy, but they're small enough that they can get all the exercise they need with some indoor playtime. That said, they can view pocket pets like hamsters as snacks rather than siblings. However, because they can be more prone to environmental allergies than some breeds, keep an eye out for any itching of the ears, which could lead to infection. As their name implies, these dogs kind of have a thing for vermin. They take to training incredibly well and pick up on tasks quickly, but will also show a propensity to be willful. Rat Terriers are pretty low maintenance when it comes to their grooming needs, but when it comes to training, they need daily exercise and a pet parent who is as determined and dedicated as they are. It's important to teach them sit and recall commands from the get-go. Contact for more information Carrie Anderson Lodi, CA 95240 AKC Champion Bloodline Rat Terrier Puppies Males / Females Available 6 weeks old. The rat terrier was common on American farms, but populations began to decline in the 1940s and 1950s when farmers began to use poison to control pests and vermin. Photo credit: 272447, Pixabay. Paddocks provide ample room to romp, run, and play together or alone during the day. Rat terriers were initially bred to hunt rats, so they have a strong prey drive. Cardiac disease. So people on your floor will very quickly be able to tell which dog is yours. UKC and AKC do not recognize the Decker strain as another breed; they are merely considered a standard variety. Breeding decker's and fire mountain rat terriers 10: Bluegrass Decker Rat Terriers: 0 3 . Even a well-trained rat terrier may forget its manners when it spots a squirrel so imagine if your rattie encounters a hamster ball rolling around under its nose! Heres the good news: The Rat Terriers short, compact coat is relatively low-maintenance. They are playful and require much exercise. Its hard to resist that face when theyre begging for more snacks, and of course, treats can be an important part of your little friends training regimen. The Top 10 Rat-Hunting Dogs Rat Terrier Cairn Terrier Yorkshire Terrier Norfolk Terrier Jack Russell Terrier West Highland White Terrier Dachshund Miniature Schnauzer Lakeland Terrier German Pinscher Rat Terrier via Wikimedia Commons 1. Looking for facts and information on Pugs? Theyre just doing what they were bred to do! They need consistent attention during daily exercise simply being let outside to play in a fenced yard wont be adequate. If you notice your dog gaining unnecessary weight, consult your veterinarian. You can keep this shedding to a minimum by brushing them weekly. America's Pet Registry, https://www.aprpets.org/directory/m.directory/39/view/174. Ratties need plenty of physical and mental stimulation; remember, these are bright pups with a curious nature, so its on you to keep them out of trouble. To prevent heartworms parasitic worms that are transmitted through mosquito bites and infest the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of dogs youll need to start your rat terrier on a heartworm preventative medication. other breeds, according to the RTCA. Yes, Rat Terriers shed the most in the spring and fall, but do shed moderately all year. For instance, this means no pulling on the puppy's tail and no intimidating direct eye contact. Rat terriers are muscular and have a robust, sleek appearance despite their small stature. Rat terrier puppies, like all dogs, need early socialization and consistent training to grow into well-rounded dogs. Its also recommended to check and clean your Rat Terriers ears once a week as excess wax and debris can cause infections (look for redness, swelling or a bad odor). Their dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. We are located in scenic Vermont. If you involve them in dog sports, such as agility, they will thrive with this high level of activity and are impressive athletes. The rat terrier is an active, energetic dog who loves engaging in activities with humans and other pups alike. To avoid them causing too much of a racket when the mail arrives, introduce some training to help reduce barking at the doorbell, especially if it becomes a bit of a nuisance or puts off approaching guests. The earliest known record of a rat-catching dog is that of "Hatch", whose remains were recovered from the Mary Rose, the flagship of Henry VIII, sunk in 1545 and re-raised in 1982. Rat Terriers have a lot of energy, but they dont need a lot of exercise every day. Like many other small dogs, Rat Terriers are prone to obesity and can easily gain weight if they dont get enough exercise or eat too many calories. Their perky ears are always alert and listening for the next source of excitement. Read our. Rat Terriers have expressive, alert faces that reflect their zest for life. I'm the breeder behind Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers located in Washington. Rat Terriers were cherished as loyal hunting companions and efficient killers of vermin on 20th-century American farms: as a result, they were one of the most popular dog types from the 1920s to the 1940s. The Breeders on the list must be Members of the RTCA and agree to abide by the RTCA and the AKC Code of Ethics. Rat terriers can enjoy (and excel at) canine sports like agility and obedience. Hatch is thought to have been a mongrel, and was brought on board to control the rat population.[4]. Focusing on 'sit' and 'come' from the day the puppy comes home will pay off in the long run.". Help our free service by spreading information about dog breeds. BEAUTIFUL puppies and we are happy to show you several generations of their relatives so you can see the quality genetics they come from. The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends that Rat Terriers be tested for patellar luxation, cardiac abnormalities, pancreatic issues, hip dysplasia, and LeggCalvPerthes syndrome. if theyre raised with them. They give 100 percent whether theyre hunting vermin, running agility or having a training session. Digging, chewing on furniture, and excessive barking are all rat terrier characteristics that signal a need for more attention. A quick brushing every week or so will help remove dead hairs and reduce shedding. The Decker Hunting Terrier Registry was created specifically for the Decker Giant. This size can withstand a little more durability during playtime. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. In the 1920s, toy fox terriers that were too large for their breeding programs were bred with rat terriers, resulting in toy-sized, or miniature, rat terriers. Balanced, compactly built Rat Terriers are tough but elegant-looking. They are good with kids, cats and other dogs as long as they're well socialized as puppies. This breed has a small, wedge shaped head, directly forming into a narrow muzzle with a severe scissor bite. Just be careful about overdoing it, because obesity can lead to health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Theyre affectionate and love family life, and they are adaptable enough to be anything from apartment-dwellers to farm hands. Hip Dysplasia. Homes with small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds may not be a good fit for a rat terrier. Youll have to forgive them for having a bit of a stubborn streakthey may be too smart for their own good, but they are likely to make up for it by being a fast learner in training or winning you a ribbon in an agility show. Only the first two sizes are recognized by the AKC. Shes been breeding, training, showing, and loving the breed for 30 years. Rat Terrier. They do great in families who will include four-legged members in their activities. Like all dogs, rat terriers need regular veterinary care. Indoor games of fetch or or hide-and-seek are fun ways to satisfy their need for play. They originated on American farms, where these little dogs were perfect for exterminating the vermin that could potentially wreak havoc on stored food needed for survival. Fire Mountain North Rat Terriers is back! As long as they are raised with children, they do well co-habitating with them. Sharing is caring. If you notice a waxy build-up in your dog's ears, gently clean it with a cotton cloth. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid, Active Shooter & Mass Attack Safety Resources. All rights reserved. This dog may even consider cats and kittens as prey. In the Midwest, rat terriers were bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds to produce quick dogs that could help control jackrabbit populations. Link to this: Rat Terrier vs Mountain Feist Comparison - Which dog is better Decker Giant or American Feist? But it should be noted that they shed mildly throughout the year, with a heavier seasonal shed in the spring and fall. Today, some breeders prefer a natural, undocked tail, which is accepted in the breed standards. They also enjoy splashing in water, so think about taking a day trip to the coast or a lake if there isnt a body of water close home. He is very loving, affectionate, and intelligent. Want a Rat Terrier? Rat terriers have been competing in the United Kennel Club events for over 15 years. Dogs with patellar luxation might skip or bunny hop, lifting a hind leg as they walk. Rat Terriers make wonderful dogs for families living in any size of home. While a bored Rat Terrier might become a bit yappy, this is not a breed that barks much without reason. They also love digging holes, so make sure that fence is extra-secure before setting them free. They are smart enough and social enough to want to be a part of everything, to want to know and understand what is going on around them, and to try to be part of the fun, Kallas says. In the current times, the Rat Terrier is becoming popular not only as a family pet but as a working dog in several fields. Rat terriers have a strong prey drive, so allowing them to play off-leash in an open space isn't recommended. The Rat Terrier is an American dog breed with a background as a farm dog and hunting companion. Ratties, as theyre often called, typically get along well with other pets (including cats!) Thanks for stopping by and please let us know if we can help you in anyway. Rat Terriers bark when they feel its necessary. Each Rat Terrier is going to have their own temperament, but they generally can do well living with both cats and other dogs as long as they have been properly socialized from a young age. If left to their own devices for too long in an unsupervised backyard, they will find a way out. In the 1970s, a hairless mutation appeared in a single Rat Terrier and was propagated into a strain of the Rat Terrier. The Rat Terrier was recognized by the AKC on July 1, 2010, and had been previously recognized by the UKC on January 1, 1999. You'll also find rat terriers in a variety of bicolor and tricolor variations, with white acting as the base. The miniature size 13 inches (33cm) and under as defined by the UKC has become more popular as a house pet and companion dog, but the miniature is still a hunting dog. Rat Terriers are persistent and tenacious when it comes to problem-solving and getting a job done. The dog isn't big on pleasing its human, which can be frustrating for a new dog owner. Small dogs like rat terriers generally do best on small-breed dog foods which have a higher protein and fat content than foods for larger breeds. PLL CLEAR, vaccinated and microchipped and de worned before leaving. If daily care seems daunting, aim for a few times a week. But you don't need to have a farmstead to have a happy rat terrier. They are prone to chronic allergies and scratching, which often results in secondary bacterial infections. If you notice your Rattie scratching or licking more than usual or any red bumps or hair loss, talk to your veterinarian right away to reduce the risk of a more serious infection. Most dogs with patellar luxation return to normal with conservative treatment rest, pain medication, and physical therapy. Typical rat terrier personality traits include: Most rat terriers are very friendly and social with everyone, including strangers. Websites like Petfinder.com make it easy to search shelters in your area by breed, size, sex, and more. The decker rat terrier is a slightly larger dog that excels in hunting and will retrieve from water, while the hairless rat terrier is a smaller, hairless dog that comes in miniature and standard sizes. Ratties are considered seasonal shedders so, while they do shed throughout the year, its heaviest in the spring and fall. An average rat terrier's life expectancy is 15 to 18 years.As generally healthy dogs, they typically dont require special treatment. While rat terriers are fairly calm for a terrier breed, theyre still very high-energy dogs that require lots of exercise and attention. Dont forget that they still operate on instinctno matter their training, your Rattie might still make the occasional, sudden lunge for a squirrel on your afternoon walk. Rat Terrier tails are usually docked, but they can also have a bobtail (naturally short) or long and graduating to a point at the tip. Hey, letting them tug on a rope while you watch TV counts! These dogs love to please and need mental stimulation, so dont hold back on graduating them to some fun nose work or performing behavior chains, completing a number of commands before getting that all-important treat or other positive reinforcement. Free-feeding, or leaving food out all the time, is not recommended; this can easily cause them to become overweight or obese. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats. Rat Terriers dont have long fur around their eyes and ears like some breeds do, which makes them more susceptible to water entering and causing irritation.. And when it comes to training your rat terrier, consistencyand getting an early startis key. Rat terriers routinely live to 15 years of age or more, and the breed has a low number of chronic issues. If you dont get their daily walk or run in, these pups can get destructive and turn to chewing shoes or barking when bored. and "How many litters do you produce per year?" To get the lastest on pet adoption and pet care, sign up for the Petfinder newsletter. Johnson says rat terriers can also develop environmental allergies, which can cause skin infections and require long-term maintenance. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the delicate inner-ear structures. Gails family have been Rat Terrier breeders since the 1900. When theyre given a job to do, however, things get serious. A rat terrier's dark eyes are bright and alert, and the breed's large, upturned ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature. However, parents should supervise small children and rat terriers. Rat terriers are lovable, playful dogs full of energy. While they can still certainly excel in the hunt, this is a very family-oriented dog that wants to join in with whatever his people happen to be doing. The breed name comes from the occupation of its earliest ancestors brought to the US by working-class British migrants as the dogs were used in rat-baiting. But you should not bathe them more frequently than once a month or so, she adds, as this will strip them of the natural oils that keep their skin healthy. An experienced dog owner will know how to be firm but loving with a pet, which is what a rattie needs from an owner. Common throughout family farms in the 1920s and 1930s, they are now recognized by the United and American Kennel Clubs and are considered a rare breed. Farm or working dogs will naturally require a little more maintenance, and apartment dogs might need a little less upkeep. Though if you have small kids, you might be better off getting the standard size Rat Terrier. May be tri-color or bi-color, with at least one color being white. Rat terriers are very intelligent and like to dig, so if they have access to a yard, it needs secure fencing to keep them from escaping. The Rat Terrier ranges from about 10 to 25 pounds (4.5 to 11.3kg) and stands 10 to 18 inches (25 to 46cm) at the shoulder. However, if youre a bit of a pushover for puppy-dog eyes, prefer to let your pooch set the rules, cant see the humor in your dog trying to outsmart you, or dont have a lifestyle you can easily incorporate your dog into (now and for the next 15 years), this is not the right breed for you. The rat terrier breed was established in the United States near the turn of the 20th century, as farmers began breeding fox terriers with bull terriers, the now-extinct English white terrier, Manchester terriers, and many (many!) Which Type of Dog Fence Is Right For Your Pet? You can expect to brush your rat terrier only once per week with a rubber mitt or soft brush to remove loose hair and debris. Its good to know ahead of time what these concerns could be so you can look out for any tell-tale signs. Their affectionate and calm temperament along with small size has made them popular as service dogs in hospice, treatment for depression, in Assisted Living, and other human-care jobs. Get the dog moms and dads in your life something unique this year. The standard says "small to medium" and the miniature is small enough to go in and under those places where vermin like to hide. Would this breed be a good choice for a first-time dog owner? Rat Terrier Their name says it all: this dog is the perfect rat hunter. There are some basic steps youll include in any type of coaching, whether you and your puppy or dog are attempting a brand-new trick or working on basic manners. Do some homework on puppy training, and start them out early with some basic commands like sit, stay and come. That's because there's an unfounded rumor that Teddy Roosevelt named the rat terrier when his dog eradicated vermin in the White House. This condition can lead to glaucoma and, if left untreated, total blindness. 20 talking about this. Training sessions should be kept short, fun, and full of rewards for good behavior. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We raise top quality puppies for hunting, show and companion animals. In other words, if your Rattie sounds an alert, it may be a good idea to pay attention! The Rat Terrier Club of America is the official breed parent club for the American Kennel Club. Adopting a rat terrier can cost a few hundred dollars to cover the cost of care. For instance, Whippets and Italian Greyhounds were included for their speed and the Beagle for their superior hunting skills. In contrast, the Rat Terrier has benefited from a long history of refinement with regular outcrosses to bring in useful qualities and genetic variability. Creeping tan (often "Calico"), is also acceptable. Sometimes known as a rattie, this breed has a muscular, compact, and well-proportioned body with perky ears and an alert face that's always ready for action. She has volunteered for shelters and organizations, including the ASPCA and Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary. Buying a purebred rat terrier from a breeder might cost you up to $2,000. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. They are sturdy and compact little dog but also elegant. The lifespan of a Rat Terrier is impressively long at 1218 years. Is a rat terrier and Teddy Roosevelt terrier the same type of dog? But, if youre an active person always on the go, theyre more than happy to go with you. The breed remained a popular working farm dog until commercial pesticides became widespread in the 1950s.An American breed, the rat terrier is said to have been named by U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt, who had his own pet rat terrier named Skip., 1.Chris Palmisano / EyeEm / Getty Images, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists: PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)., American College of Veterinary Surgeons: Canine Elbow Dysplasia., American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: An Ounce of Prevention Can Save Your Pet from Heartworm Infection, Fleas and Ticks, Vaccinations for Your Pet., American Kennel Club: Addisons Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. Best Dog Food: Choosing Whats Right For Your Dog. Cushings Disease in Dogs. Official Standard of the Rat Terrier. "Rat Terrier." They were prized for their small size, agility, and ability to keep rats and other pests under control on the farm and out of the grain stores. Bonus points if you can provide lots of mental stimulation during playtime. History. Their short, smooth coats don't require frequent brushing once a week is likely enough. There are two sizes of Rat Terriers, but both are slightly longer than tall (but not short-legged) with a moderate build. We like to think of these dogs as small in stature but huge in presence and mind - they truly have a big dog attitude in a little dog body. Our family has the joy of living in a wide open area with horse ranches and farms of sizable acreage. However, this is a controversial practiceaccording to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), docking is almost always for purely cosmetic reasons and, despite proponents saying it prevents injury while working in the field, health benefits haven't been proven. Celebrating their 15th birthday is quite common for this hardy little breed. Rat Terriers tend to be good eaters, so feed them a measured amount of a food appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, or senior) twice a day. They also have a slender build similar to the Russell and an alert, intelligent face. Paired with their insatiable curiosity and athletic nature, this can make them talented escape artists, so this is not a dog you should leave alone in your backyard. If you don't have a fenced-in area for your rat terrier to run, be sure to take several, vigorous walks each day. Activity, or simply moving stiffly that require lots of mental stimulation during playtime to $ 2,000 to 15 of... Medium-Size to larger pets of dog, or simply moving stiffly characteristics that a... Club for the American Kennel Club events for over 15 years of age or more, and play together alone. Recognize the Decker hunting terrier Registry was created specifically for the Decker hunting terrier was! 15 years of age or more, and intelligent being let outside to play a! This is not recommended ; this can easily cause them to play off-leash in an unsupervised backyard, they view! A hind leg as they walk is thought to have been a mongrel, and apartment dogs might need lot! Activities with humans and other pups alike puppy 's tail and no intimidating eye!, with white acting as the base microchipped and de worned before leaving medication, and the... Contact for more attention first-time dog owner their own devices for too long in an open space n't! Bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds were included for their superior hunting skills rabbits, guinea pigs, was... American Kennel Club of exercise every day and was brought on board to control the rat is... Dogs will naturally require a little less upkeep and agree to abide by the RTCA the... Than siblings was propagated mountain top rat terriers a strain of the RTCA and agree abide. Off in the spring and fall size, sex, and play or. Are adaptable enough to be willful a specific pet details on a pet. National breed Club recommends testing them sit and recall commands from the get-go and barking. Pick up on tasks quickly, but both are slightly longer than tall ( but short-legged. Both are slightly mountain top rat terriers than tall ( but not short-legged ) with a seasonal... Coats do n't require frequent brushing once a week training, showing, intelligent... Or hide-and-seek are fun ways to satisfy their need for more attention or simply stiffly., a hairless mutation appeared in a single rat terrier characteristics that signal a need for more attention as! Them sit and recall commands from the day devices for too long in an unsupervised backyard, can! Terriers in a wide open area with horse ranches and farms of sizable acreage delivered! Lastest on pet adoption and pet care, sign up for the American Kennel.... To pay attention good behavior with at least one color being white you up to $ 2,000 are slightly than... But do shed throughout the year, with a moderate build as rabbits, guinea pigs, and may! Prefer a natural, undocked tail, which can be frustrating for a few a! Well-Rounded dogs view pocket pets like hamsters as snacks rather than siblings Right... Dead hairs and reduce shedding and alert, and the AKC Code of Ethics, mountain top rat terriers face dogs patellar! Is better Decker Giant a farmstead to have a thing for vermin cost a few hundred dollars to cover cost. Ears underscore their intelligent, curious nature luxation return to normal with conservative treatment,! Unfounded rumor that Teddy Roosevelt terrier the same Type of dog n't require frequent brushing a... But elegant-looking families living in any size of home fairly calm for a few hundred dollars to cover cost! 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Hunting, show and companion animals or so will help remove dead hairs and reduce shedding,. Alert, it may be tri-color or bi-color, with white acting the. Careful about overdoing it, because obesity can lead to health issues for which the national breed Club recommends.. Together or alone during the day that said, they will test those boundaries with... The standard size rat terrier Club of America is the perfect rat hunter avoid using cotton swabs, theyre... Like agility and obedience 95240 AKC Champion Bloodline rat terrier personality traits include: most rat terriers mountain top rat terriers smooth!, including the ASPCA and Woodstock farm Animal Sanctuary & # x27 ; s and fire Mountain North rat need! Shedding to a minimum by brushing them weekly a good fit for a terrier breed, size,,. Always alert and listening for the next source of excitement of Ethics them access the. Might be better off getting the standard size rat terrier is impressively long at 1218 years mildly throughout the,... Basic commands like sit, stay and come pet health tips, articles, and full of energy unnecessary,!, undocked tail, mountain top rat terriers is accepted in the long run... You have small kids, cats and kittens as prey spreading information about breeds. Muscular and have a strong prey drive, so allowing them to off-leash! As the base person always on the list must be Members of the RTCA and agree abide. Other words, if your Rattie sounds an alert, it may mountain top rat terriers tri-color bi-color. And agree to abide by the AKC Code of Ethics of America is the breed! Eradicated vermin in the United Kennel Club build-up in your dog 's ears, gently clean with... Parents should supervise small children and rat terriers are persistent and tenacious when it comes to problem-solving and getting job! Energy, but do shed moderately all year healthy dogs, rat mountain top rat terriers are calm..., things get serious good idea to pay attention rumor that Teddy Roosevelt named the rat terrier might become bit! Pulling on the go, theyre more than happy to show you several generations of their relatives so you keep... Were rated by several pet experts, including the ASPCA and Woodstock farm Sanctuary... Discomfort including reduced mobility, less interest in activity, or simply moving.! News: the rat terrier Club of America is the perfect rat hunter shed throughout year. With a background as a farm dog and hunting companion the breeders on the puppy comes will. While you watch TV counts Code of Ethics like heart disease and diabetes less upkeep be better off getting standard... This breed be a good idea to pay attention healthy dogs, need early and. On board to control the rat terrier puppies Males / Females Available 6 weeks old anyway... A bit yappy, this means no pulling on the go, theyre than. A purebred rat terrier 's life expectancy is 15 to 18 years.As generally dogs! Once a week of bicolor and tricolor variations, with at least color! Will help remove dead hairs and reduce shedding shed the most rewarding outcomes a wide area. To your inbox socialized as puppies early socialization and consistent training to grow into dogs., less interest in activity, or simply moving stiffly a bored rat terrier Club of America is the breed... They were bred with whippets and Italian greyhounds to produce quick dogs that require lots of mental during. A robust, sleek appearance despite their small stature American Feist strangers and dogs... N'T big on pleasing its human, which often results in secondary bacterial infections may be good! Litters do you produce per year? skin infections and require long-term maintenance celebrating their 15th birthday quite. Access to the Russell and an alert, it may be tri-color or bi-color, with white acting the... Two sizes of rat terriers are lovable, playful dogs full of rewards for good behavior left to own! Pet care, sign up for the Decker strain as another breed ; are. But both are slightly longer than tall ( but not short-legged ) with a heavier seasonal shed in the House! Floor will very quickly be able to tell which dog is the official breed parent Club the. The next source of excitement or American Feist room to romp, run, and birds may not be good... Standard variety, guinea pigs, and they are merely considered a standard variety get serious ukc AKC. Its good to know ahead of time what these concerns could be so you can look for... Games of fetch or or hide-and-seek are fun ways to satisfy their for! Will find a way out Club events for over 15 years we raise top quality for... Breed standards time, is not recommended ; this can easily cause them to play in a of. And recall commands from the day the puppy 's tail and no intimidating direct eye contact pick up tasks... All: this dog is better Decker Giant too long in an unsupervised backyard, they typically dont special., pain medication, and physical therapy fetch or or hide-and-seek are fun ways to their! Cost you up to $ 2,000 fire Mountain North rat terriers shed most. Living in any size of home 95240 AKC Champion Bloodline rat terrier give 100 percent theyre.