Rat Terriers don’t just refer to the specific dog breed known as the Rat Terrier, but also to its descendants along with other terrier breeds that are used as ratters. There are many different types that make feisty companions as well as natural vermin hunters. So here is the complete list of all the rat terrier breeds, and what you’ll want to know about each of them.
Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is small, with a fox-like muzzle and erect, pointed ears. They are very alert dogs that are always on the lookout for vermin to hunt. That’s because they were originally bred to protect farms and ranches in the United States from vermin. This breed is quite the handful, however.
They’re known to dig, disobey commands, and even escape! The Rat Terrier may be a small breed, but they do best with experienced owners who can deal with their stubborn nature, while also appreciating this spunky breed’s sense of humor.
American Hairless Terrier
This Rat Terrier dog breed is one of the few breeds native to the United States and is the only one of the hairless dogs to have come from America. They were traditionally bred to hunt rats, mice, and other vermin. The American Hairless Terrier, however, came to be completely by accident!
One hairless dog was produced in a litter of Rat Terriers, which was then bred to produce more hairless dogs. Before long, an entirely new breed had been established. While its hairless coat is great for those with allergies, keep in mind that the American Hairless Terrier is especially sensitive to heat, cold, and sunburn, and requires more care than most dog breeds.
Tenterfield Terrier
The Tenterfield Terrier is a small Australian dog breed with a big attitude. Like most terriers, these dogs have a stubborn streak, as well as a great sense of humor. They tend to be mischievous, which can drive some owners crazy. Don’t get a Tenterfield Terrier if you can’t keep up with their hilarious personality!
While the Tenterfield Terrier does look similar to other Rat Terriers at a first glance, its defining feature is an adorable, naturally-occurring bobtail. This is a highly active and agile breed that needs plenty of time outside, or else it will likely become bored and destructive.
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Chilean Fox Terrier
One of the most underrated ratter dog breeds is the Chilean Fox Terrier. So far, this breed is only recognized by one fancier’s club, but it’s certainly starting to make more of an impression throughout the Internet today. It became popular in Chile in middle-class families, who found the dog to be an excellent and hard-working companion.
Chilean Fox Terriers are incredibly active, which means they require a large, fenced-in yard and regular walks to keep up with their energy. Unfortunately, this is a relatively rare breed that is difficult to come by outside of its native country. Hopefully, in the future, this adorable and hardworking breed will win over the hearts of dog-lovers throughout the world!
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Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier sets itself apart from other breeds with its heavy bone structure and short legs. While many terriers bond well with entire families, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier tends to become most attached to a single person, even though they can still fit in well to a home with several people.
These dogs excel at hunting all sorts of vermin, but their intelligence and athleticism also make them a popular choice for agility courses and obedience training. While they still have somewhat of a stubborn streak due to their Rat Terrier roots, they are more eager to please than many other terrier breeds.
Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is an English breed that was built for speed. They have a long, elegant body and sleek yet powerful legs. They were popular for not only hunting rats, but for chasing down rabbits and other fast game, as well.
While all terriers are known to be active, the Manchester Terrier is considered to be the most athletic of the Rat Terrier breeds. They require very active owners who can keep up with their endless energy, as well as a large, fenced-in yard to stretch their legs and keep from getting bored.
Plummer Terrier
The Plummer Terrier is a very recent dog breed, having been developed in the 1960s by combining Red Fell Terriers, Bull Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, and Beagles. The result was a hardy and determined breed with a high prey drive and endless energy.
These dogs are traditionally used as pack dogs while hunting, but that doesn’t mean they can’t fit well into a loving family! Still, they’re about as stubborn as the average terrier and need an experienced and firm owner.
Source: Phill the Kettle/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0
Jack Russell Terrier
The classic Jack Russell Terrier was originally bred for fox hunting, but today, they are among the most popular Rat Terriers used as a family companion. They can be very willful and independent, with that classic terrier stubborn streak, so like most terriers, they require an owner who’s had experience with dogs in the past.
Training is a must for this clever breed! With a firm hand, however, the Jack Russell Terrier is an obedient and active companion who will stick with you through thick and thin.
Brazilian Terrier
Similar to other rat terrier breeds, the Brazilian Terrier is a feisty handful wrapped up in a small, energetic dog! It is one of only two Brazilian dog breeds that is recognized throughout the world.
They have a high prey drive and can be difficult to train due to their stubborn nature, but with a firm hand, they become incredibly loyal and devoted companions who do well in a family. While Brazilian Terriers are quite affectionate towards their family, they have a natural wariness towards strangers that also makes them excellent watchdogs.
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