A Rat Terrier makes for a fun, lively, energetic dog the entire family will love. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Rat Terrier - Facts

1. AKC Group:

   Rat Terriers are not recognized by the AKC, but the UKC and the CKC recognizes them in the Terrier group.

2. Size & Weight:

   They are 8 to 23 inches tall and 4 to 35 pounds.

3. Coat:

   The Rat Terriers' coat is short and soft.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is small with a pointed muzzle. Their ears are erect and either upright or tipped.

5. Body:

   Their body is well muscled with a deep chest, solid neck, strong shoulders, and powerful legs.

6. Colors:

   Their coat colors are red brindle, blue and white, tri-spotted, red and white, and solid black, red, or tan.

7. Life Expectancy:

   The Rat Terrier lives between 15 to 18 years.

8. Popularity:

   The Rat Terrier is gaining in popularity throughout the United States.

9. Habitat:

   They make a good apartment dogs as long as they are properly exercised daily.

Rat Terrier - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   The Rat Terrier originated from Great Britain.

2. Lineage:

   They are said to be crossed from the Smooth Fox Terrier and Manchester Terriers.

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   They are not recognized by the AKC, but they were admitted into the UKC in 1999.

4. Historical Information:

   The Rat Terrier was named by Teddy Roosevelt.

Rat Terrier - Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   They are said to be slightly difficult to train.

2. Temperament:

   They are alert, intelligent, feisty, fearless, loving dogs. They tend to be a little hyper.

3. Child Friendly:

   If raised with a child, and properly socialized, they are great dogs with children.

4. Behavior:

   They make a good watchdog, but are not yappers.

5. Habits:

   They are very territorial dogs.

Rat Terrier - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are said to be one of the healthiest dogs around. They have been found to have luxating patellas and can be deaf.

2. Feeding:

   They can have either dry or moist food.

3. Exercise Needs:

   They need to be exercised vigorously daily.

4. Grooming Needs:

   They are very easy to groom. They only need to be brushed and bathed on occasion.

5. Special Household Needs:

   There are no apparent household needs for the Rat Terrier.

6. Travel Needs:

   When traveling with your Rat Terrier it is advisable to have a dog crate or a dog car seat.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   They are good with other household pets that they are raised with, as long as they are properly socialized.

Rat Terrier - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for a lively, alert dog that has a shiny, healthy looking coat.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   You need a dog bed, food and water dishes, toys, food, chews and treats, leash and collar, and a dog crate

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Make sure to keep small and poisonous objects out of reach.

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   It is important to interact and engage with your puppy daily.