Dogs are a man's (or woman's) best friend.
Rats terriers are a fun and loving dog that can be a wonderful addition to your family. Whether you already own one or are just looking for information, knowing the most about the breed you plan to buy or adopt can save trouble down the road. This energetic breed has three sizes, and fortunately has few health problems.
Size
Rat terriers are available in three sizes. You might prefer larger dogs, or maybe your lease will only allow dogs up to a certain size. This is certainly a breed that allows for versatility and options. The toy rat terrier is the smallest, and will usually weigh around five pounds when fully grown. The mid-sized rat terrier will weigh a few pounds more, usually no more than about eight. The standard rat terrier is significantly larger, and can weigh up to 35 pounds.
Living Arrangements
Though rat terriers can live in an apartment with lots of exercise, they're happier in a house with a yard. The yard, however, must be carefully secured as rat terriers are avid diggers and are adept at escaping. The best thing for them is a fence that is buried slightly, or an electric fence. Other options include a tie-out that allows the dog free range of the yard, but is too short to let it escape the fence or yard.
Other Pets
Rat terrier puppies generally get along well with cats and other dogs. As the name implies, however, they are a dog that likes to hunt small prey. If you have any small pets such as hamsters or birds, you should make sure they're never out in the same room as your rat terrier puppy.
Barking
Like most terriers, rat terriers have a tendency to be yappy. While some owners can successfully train this out of their dogs, you should know that when you get a rat terrier puppy that excessive barking is likely. This makes them excellent watch dogs because they will bark at the slightest foreign sound but, regularly, it can become a nuisance.
Children
Rat terriers, like many small dogs, are not recommended in a house with small children.The rough handling that even the most well-intentioned child may provide can often lead these sometimes skittish, high-strung dogs to nip or otherwise show their impatience. Rat terriers, including puppies, also can be food and toy aggressive.
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