Many dog breeds have historically been used to hunt down mice, rats, and other vermin. Today, this is still an incredibly useful trait, especially in farm dogs. So, here are some of the most popular ratter dog breeds, and what you’ll want to know about each of them.
Andalusian Ratter
The Andalusian Ratter is a Spanish breed of dog that is extremely fast and determined to catch every last mouse and rat in sight! They were originally bred to hunt down the vermin lurking in wine cellars. In fact, its full Spanish name roughly translates to Andalusian Wine-Cellar Rat-Hunting Dog!
Since that name is quite a mouthful, though, it’s usually referred to simply as the Andalusian Ratter. While small, this breed has an extremely high prey drive, and should be kept away from small pets, including cats.
American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is one of the breeds native to the United States! This hairless breed is small to medium in size, and was of course used to hunt mice and rats. Despite its great hunting ability, however, its lack of coat meant it was unsuitable to take on hunting missions outdoors. Owners of American Hairless Terriers should be aware that this hairless dog is very sensitive to heat, cold, and sunburn.
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the most famous ratters out there, although they were originally bred to hunt foxes. This small, cute breed may look like the ideal breed for beginner dog owners at a glance, but be warned!
These small dogs have a big attitude, and their stubborn and mischievous nature means they’re best suited to experienced dog owners. This is, however, an extremely friendly dog breed that is great with children, strangers, and other dogs alike!
Rat Terrier
Another one of the amazing rat hunting dogs is the rat terrier. This breed is said to have been named by President Theodore Roosevelt himself. This is a small yet courageous breed that has a feisty and mischievous breed. They’re especially notorious for being wonderful escape artists.
The Rat Terrier can be quite a handful, so they’re best suited to experienced owners with good leadership skills and an excellent sense of humor. Rat Terriers need an owner who can appreciate their wild antics!
Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier can come in two different sizes: toy and standard. These are fast, stream-lined dogs who can catch even the quickest of rats. Manchester Terriers are incredibly athletic, and as a result, they require a large, fenced-in backyard, as well as regular walks and runs to stretch their long legs.
Their sleek, short coat means they are very easy to groom. Manchester Terriers are very affectionate and playful family members who get along especially well with children.
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a small ratter breed with a very short tail and fox-like ears. This is an old breed that was developed in Germany to hunt vermin, and today they are revered for their active and spirited personalities.
While its exact ancestry is unknown, it’s believed that the Miniature Pinscher was developed from Dachshunds, Italian Greyhounds, and German Pinschers. This clever little breed has a warm and outgoing personality, and it fits right into just about any family!
Brazilian Terrier
The Brazilian Terrier is a relatively new breed, only about 100 years old. While incredibly popular in Brazil, not many people outside the country know about this dog’s existence. Like most terriers, the Brazilian Terrier has a spirited and somewhat stubborn personality that can make them quite difficult to train.
They do best with owners who have strong leadership skills and a firm hand. Otherwise, you’re likely to find your Brazilian Terrier bossing you around!
Prague Ratter
Another one of the popular rat-catching dogs is the Prague Ratter. It is one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, and is the smallest in its country of origin, the Czech Republic. While small, this is an incredibly active and frisky dog that needs lots of exercise. Prague Ratters need plenty of room to stretch their legs, so unlike many other small dog breeds, they aren’t well suited to life in an apartment.
Dutch Smoushond
The Dutch Smoushond is a small breed with a thick, fluffy coat and a charming personality. It originated in the Netherlands as a ratter dog breed, and despite its popularity in its country of origin, it isn’t particularly well known elsewhere in the world.
Sadly, this means that the Dutch Smoushond is a rare breed that is difficult to come by. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on this breed, however, you’ll immediately fall in love with its adorable face and spirited personality!
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a tiny, fluffy dog breed with an adorably grumpy face. If you’re looking for a dog that looks like an Ewok, then the Brussels Griffon is perfect for you! This is a funny little breed that will be sure to entertain you with its playful and comical nature.
These dogs are incredibly curious and active, which means they can often get into trouble. With proper training, however, this spunky little dog makes an amazing companion!
German Pinscher
The German Pinscher is one of the oldest dog breeds from Germany, and is the main ancestor behind most other pinscher breeds. Their original purpose was to hunt and catch rats, but their intelligence and hardworking demeanor make them well suited to all kinds of work today. This medium-sized dog does best in an active household that can meet their high exercise requirements.
Affenpinscher
The last of our ratter dog breeds on this list is the Affenpinscher. This is a small, fluffy black dog with an adorable face and a lively personality. Similar to the Brussels Griffon, this small dog packs a huge personality, and they can often get into trouble with their curious nature. They require proper training to make sure they don’t rule the house, but they thrive best in a home that can appreciate their hilarious personality.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Small Dogs With Big Ears
There are many reasons to own a small dog and there is a wide range of amazing breeds to choose from. Many people find the ones with big ears to be particularly adorable. So here are some of the top small dogs with big ears to help you find the canine you’re looking...
Big Dogs With Pointy Ears
One of the most amazing things about dogs is that they come in every shape, size, and color imaginable! If you're looking for a certain physical trait in a dog breed, you'll be sure to find several different breeds that fit the bill. Today, we're going to take a look...
Small Dogs With Pointy Ears
Dogs with pointy ears come in all shapes and sizes. And luckily for fans of smaller-sized pooches, there are plenty to pick from. So we’ve compiled a list of the top small dogs with pointy ears to help you find the perfect pet. Scottish Terrier Scotties are small and...
Are Bull Terriers Stubborn?
Are bull terriers stubborn? To ask such a question would be like asking if the Earth is round, or if the sun is bright. This breed of dog has a strong personality and that is what makes it rather unique. A stubborn bull terrier is also a smart bull terrier. It knows...
Bull Terriers Are Ugly
Some people think that Bull Terriers are ugly, and others think that their egg-shaped head makes them look cute. Whatever your opinion of how Bull Terriers look, an indisputable fact is that the smart Bull Terrier is unique and quite distinct. Why Are Bull Terriers So...
Are Bull Terriers Smart?
Are Bull Terriers smart? Ask anyone who has ever had a Bull Terrier this question, and the resounding and unanimous answer will be a yes. They will also tell you that they are intelligent, funny, energetic, and stubborn. For all these reasons first-time pet owners or...
Dog Breeds That Drool
Heat, thirst, and hunger are the three things that can cause just about any dog to drool. Yet there are certain breeds that slobber much more than others. So before you decide on what type of canine you’d like to purchase, you’ll want to check out the following list...
Low-Energy Dog Breeds
When choosing a pet it is critical that you pick a breed with an energy level that matches your own. For many people, a low-energy dog is the best fit for their lifestyle. If this sounds like you, you’ll want to check out the top low-energy dog breeds listed here....
Lazy Dog Breeds
Not everyone wants a high-energy pet. Many potential owners would actually prefer to have a dog that has a lot less energy. So here are some of the top lazy dog breeds you’ll want to consider that work well with a more laid-back lifestyle. Chow Chow The Chow Chow is...
Brindle Dog Breeds
Brindle is one of the most unique coat color patterns that is only found in certain dog breeds, and a few other animals as well. A brindle coat looks similar in appearance to tiger stripes, but not as bold. That’s because it has streaks of color that are different...
Harlequin Dog Breeds
The harlequin coat pattern is rare in the world of dogs. This unusual pattern is also eye incredibly eye-catching. The following are the only harlequin dog breeds out there. Great Dane The Great Dane is a German breed that was created to hunt wild boar and also served...
Black And Tan Dog Breeds
There are quite a few dog breeds that are black tan in color. But before you decide on one, you’ll want to learn a bit more about the many different types out there. So here are the basics of the top black and tan dog breeds. Rottweiler The Rottweiler is a German...
Small Black And Tan Dog Breeds
Black and tan is arguably one of the most impressive coat colors a dog can have. And quite a few breeds can be found in this eye-catching color. However, not everyone is looking for a large or even medium-sized pet. So here are some of the top small black and tan...
Black Dog Breeds
Let’s face it there are adorable dogs in every coat color. Yet for many people, a black pooch is the cutest of them all. So here are the top black dog breeds you’ll want to check out when considering a new pet. German Shepherd The German Shepherd comes in a handful of...
Red Dog Breeds
White Dog Breeds
Dog breeds come in a range of different colors. Many people consider white to be the most attractive coat color of all. And there are quite a few breeds that have an all-white or predominantly white coat. So here are some of the top white dog breeds you'll want to...
Wrinkly Dog Breeds
Whether big or small, old or young, dogs with wrinkles always look adorable. It’s no wonder that so many people want a wrinkly dog of their own. So here are some of the top wrinkly dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. English Bulldog For many people, the...
Spotted Dog Breeds
Depending on the breed a dog’s coat may come in many different patterns. Yet there is always something special however about a coat with spots. So here are some of the top spotted dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. Bluetick Coonhound The Bluetick Coonhound is...
Stubborn Small Dog Breeds
There are many reasons to choose a small dog. And luckily there are many fabulous breeds to choose from. Yet there are some that can be more headstrong than others. This doesn’t mean they are any less amazing, but it’s something you’ll want to take into consideration....
The Most Stubborn Dog Breeds
All dog breeds are different. And each one has its own unique set of characteristics. For better or worse one trait many breeds have in common is stubbornness. Here are some of the most stubborn dog breeds of them all. Bull Terrier The Bull Terrier is a loving family...