Rat Terrier

If the word “rat” makes you squeamish, the Rat Terrier could actually be a great breed for you. These American farm dogs are named for their ability to hunt out small pests and keep families safe from vermin.

Small in stature but quite hardy, they can squeeze into small spaces and won’t stop until the job is done. They love running through green fields, jumping in the water and hiking up hills. Once work time is over, they bring their energy to family time. Because they’re a social breed, they’re great with kids of all ages. Rat Terriers basically embody that happy-go-lucky farmer stereotype. For a small dog, they don’t have any of that fussy or high maintenance behaviour.

Because they’re generally bred for their athleticism more than aesthetics, they come in a variety of colours including black, tan, white, red and brown. They have strong shoulders, necks, chests and legs with ears that pop up at the smallest sound. Owners of Rat Terriers love the outdoors and can commit to daily exercise with their dog. Because of their easy disposition, they’re becoming family dogs, and not farm dogs, more and more. They’re also used in hospice, assisted living and other human care facilities. 

Did you know?

Giving a new meaning to “Rat Pack,” Rat Terriers have been used to control New York City’s rodent problem.