Originally developed in the early nineteenth century in England, the amazing Rat Terrier breed is a unique dog that is certainly worth discovering. They are the result of a combination of dogs such as Smooth Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers, Beagles and even Whippets. The main reason of their creation was to design a specific dog that could be as small, agile and strong enough to keep Rats and other small animals away from farms. The Rat Terrier therefore obtains its name from the task that was once commended to it and due to its success as Rat hunter, this dog has always been useful. Nowadays, this breed counts with recognition from several important dog associations except for the AKC.
The Rat Terrier can be found in three major styles: standard, mid-sized and toy. The standard is of course the largest of all, featuring average measures of around 14 to 23 inches of height and 12 to 35 pounds of weight. As for the mid-sized specimens, they are usually measuring up to 14 inches tall and up to 8 pounds of weight. Finally, the toy variety measures around 8 inches tall and between 4 and 6 pounds of weight.
Independently of the size, the Rat Terrier features obvious similarities when it comes to the appearance. These dogs are muscular and count with strong legs and a wide neck. The head becomes thinner towards the end. The ears are large and normally carried erected, especially when the dog is in an alert attitude. The eyes are well proportioned in the face and are normally of dark colors. Finally, the Rat Terrier displays a short and smooth coat that usually combines two or three colors among the chocolate, red, white, black, brown, pearl, sable, tan, blue and brindle tones. This coat does not require too much grooming (ony once or twice a week) and shedding will never be a problem with this breed.
As most Terriers, the Rat Terrier is a brave and corageous dog that can defend its family above all dangers. They are truly loving and caring, ideal for families although early socialization with children and other animals, especially small ones, is required (remember these dogs were bred to hunt). They can also be friendly with strangers although they may become suspicious at the beginning. The Rat Terrier is marvelously intelligent and training will always be a fabulous experience. They require firm leadership and this is why you always need to stand up as the master.
The Rat Terrier is really active and enjoys a daily amount of exercise. Scheduling a proper exercise routine is extremely important in order to keep your friend calmed. They can become destructive if not properly exercised and also aggressive towards people. Experts say that the Rat Terrier is a good dog for apartments given you provide it with the needed amount of activities. The life expectancy of the Rat Terrier usually goes from fifteen to eighteen years, becoming therefore one of the most long lived dogs of all.
