8 Rat Terrier Facts: History, Appearance & Traits

After thousands of years of domestication, several dog breeds have evolved into absolute wizards in various working disciplines. Such is the case with the Rat Terrier, a modern American classic and vermin-exterminating pro that has captured the hearts of the blue-collar class and presidents alike with their energy and pluck.

Though their name gives us plenty of clues into the Rat Terrier’s background, the canine is far from one-sided. Find out all there is to love and admire about this hard-working companion as we explore seven Rat Terrier facts.

The 8 Rat Terrier Facts

1. Teddy Roosevelt (Supposedly) Gave the Rat Terrier Their Name

You needed a stout character to gain Teddy Roosevelt’s favor, and you can bet the Rat Terrier offers plenty in that department. The 26th president and avid hunter developed a deep bond with his Rat Terrier, Skip. Given the beloved dog’s knack for dispatching vermin around the White House, Roosevelt allegedly coined the name “Rat Terrier.”

Decades later, Teddy Roosevelt would again play a role in distinguishing a breed, lending his name to the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier. The short-legged Rat Terrier offshoot was known as the “Type B” variety before it became a distinct breed, while longer-legged Rat Terriers were “Type A.” Skip was a mix of the two types.

2. Rat Terriers Come in Numerous Colors (But They All Include White)

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Rat Terrier is that no two dogs are alike. They appear in multiple colors with markings ranging from blue to lemon to red. With 18 colors recognized by the AKC, each is more intriguing and attractive than the last.

While every dog is unique, every Rat Terrier must include white somewhere on their body.

3. A Rat Terrier Helped in the 9/11 Search and Rescue Effort

Around 300 search and rescue dogs joined the recovery effort at Ground Zero following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. They scoured the hazardous remains for months, looking for anyone left under the rubble. One of the most notable 9/11 dogs was Ricky, a Rat Terrier with Puget Sound Urban Search and Rescue.

Ricky’s small size, determination, and searching skills were instrumental in the recovery effort. While more experienced dogs verified finds, Ricky could go into tighter, precarious areas, helping workers cover more ground and recover several bodies.

4. The Rat Terrier Combines Several Breeds

The Rat Terrier is a mixed bag, marrying several breeds to pull desirable traits from each. Traditionally, they were a strain rather than a breed. Depending on the location and circumstances, different breeds would find their way into the blend, giving the Rat Terrier a wide range of sizes, looks, and temperaments.

The first Rat Terriers combined the Smooth Fox Terrier, Bull Terrier, and Manchester Terrier, among other breeds. Whippets and Italian Greyhounds were added to the mix in certain regions to enhance speed.

Elsewhere, Beagle blood provided superior scent detection and pack-hunting ability. It wasn’t until the 1990s that a breed club was formed to promote a standard.

Finally, in 2013 the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.

5. Rat Terriers Come in Two Sizes

All Rat Terriers are relatively small, but some come in an extra-tiny variety. The AKC and UKC recognize two size divisions: Miniature (10–13 inches) and Standard (13–18 inches). Beyond the size, little differentiates the two types in form or temperament.

The difference can be significant depending on the ratter’s purpose and owner preferences.

6. Rat Terriers Are Expert Exterminators

Rat Terriers were a purpose-bred vermin-eliminating breed when they appeared in the 1800s. Farmers leaned heavily on them to remove rats, moles, snakes, and any other pest threatening the home, livestock, or crops. Legend has it that one Rat Terrier killed over 2,500 rats in 7 hours.

Rat Terriers fell out of popularity for farm use in the 1950s as farmers transitioned to using poison for rat control. Thankfully, the dogs made a comeback in the late 20th century and now sit among the top 100 breeds. While they make excellent pets, Rat Terriers still work in rural and urban areas to control vermin wherever they appear.

7. The Rat Terrier Is One of the Cheapest Dogs to Own

Having a Rat Terrier comes with many perks, and for budget-conscious pet lovers, the long life expectancy and low cost of ownership make them an excellent choice. Although there can be numerous vet bills in their senior years.

The Rat Terrier is a low-maintenance pet if you can provide the exercise they demand. Grooming their short coat is easy at home, and the dogs don’t need excessive work to become well-mannered adults, just proper socialization and training. Weighing only 10–25 pounds, they’ll also save you money on food and supplies!

8. The Rat Terrier Gave Us the American Hairless Terrier

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier isn’t the only recent breed owing their existence to the Rat Terrier. The famed ratter can also claim the American Hairless Terrier as a direct descendant.

In 1972, a litter of Rat Terriers born in Louisiana included a single hairless pup. The anomaly immediately gained attention. A new breeding effort took place centering on the “hypoallergenic” non-coat. The American Hairless gained AKC recognition in 2016, 3 years after its ancestor.

What Kind of Temperament Does a Rat Terrier Have?

You can expect several traits from the Rat Terrier. They’re scrappy and energetic, with an oversized curiosity, boldness, and determination for their small stature. Rat Terriers aren’t ideal for first-time owners.

Managing their high prey drive and independent nature takes experience and commitment. When harnessed in a positive direction, like agility training, their exuberance can be infectious.

While Terriers can be feisty with strangers, the mix of temperaments that went into the Rat Terrier makes them more social than expected. They are usually playful with other dogs and good with strangers.

Still, they’ll reserve most of their fun and affection for family. Rat Terriers are loyal, protective, and more biddable than many terriers, and they make a beautiful and joyous addition to the home.

Conclusion

Whether as a companion or a worker, the Rat Terrier shines in a unique way to delight owners of all kinds. There’s much to adore and appreciate in their animated, determined spirit and more than any rundown of Rat Terrier facts could ever hope to cover. As a lucky owner, you’ll discover new reasons to fall in love with your Rattie every single day.

See also:

• Is Weed Smoke Bad for Dogs? Our Vet Takes a Look

• Why Is My Dog’s Stomach Making Noises? Likely Reasons (Vet Answer)

Featured Image Credit: Tanya Consaul Photography, Shutterstock