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Rat Terrier Rescue Canada Inc.

"Rescue One Til There Are None"

About Rat Terriers

We just might peak your interest here as Rat Terriers have a fascinating history. 

Originally farm dogs and hunting companions, sharing ancestry with the small hunting dogs known as feists. In the 1920s and 1930s, they were common on family farms. However, their status has changed over time. 

An American original, with a breed name said to be coined by Teddy Roosevelt, the Rat Terrier is a compact, tough, smooth-coated exterminator dog. Rat Terriers have gained recognition from both the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Rat Terriers are a mix of different terrier breeds, enhanced with a variety of non-terrier breeds to add specific desired characteristics. Rat Terriers, with their remarkable intelligence and boundless energy, tend to enjoy a relatively long lifespan. On average, these spirited dogs live between 12 to 18 years, sometimes even reach their early twenties with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups  

There is also a larger Rat Terrier know as a Decker Rat Terrier.

Feist

Decker Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier is an American original breed known as  “the dog of many dogs" including:






Smooth Fox Terriers

Old English White Terriers (extinct)

Toy Fox Terriers

Manchester Terriers

Bull Terriers

Chihuahuas

Beagles

Miniature Pinschers

Italian Greyhounds

Whippets

Rat Terriers typically stand about 13 to 18 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 10 to 25 pounds.

(Miniatures stand 10 to 13 inches at the shoulder. ) They excel in agility and make excellent playmates. 

Rat Terriers adore human company. They’ll wrap their paws around your neck or demand attention, seeking that close bond.

While they get along well with other dogs and cats within their family, their prey drive remains high. Supervised introductions are essential.

They’re quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement.


During World War I, soldiers stationed in the frontline trenches faced numerous challenges, including the presence of disease-carrying rats. Rat Terriers were deployed to help combat this issue. Their effectiveness in rat extermination was remarkable. These agile and determined terriers hunted down and eliminated rats, contributing to the overall well-being of the troops. 


Their loving personality, coupled with an unwavering spirit and steadfast dedication, made them true allies in those challenging times.


Rat Terriers are a breed with a clear purpose: they were bred specifically for ratting. On historical farms, an adept ratter was vital, as rodents could threaten the winter grain reserves. Instead of using dangerous chemicals, the dogs could provide a safer approach to rodent control. However, farmers needed their dogs to be multifunctional. Therefore, Rat Terriers also became versatile hunting partners, alert watchdogs, guardians of the henhouse, and sturdy playmates for children. 




With an array of terrier mixes and many dogs in high-kill shelters, RTRC is well-positioned to help you discover your lifelong furry companion who is desperately awaiting a home.


Click here to find your fury friend: Available Dogs