Rat Terrier

The Ultimate Pest Patrol

Picture this: a single terrier, in an English barn teeming with rats, kills 2,501 of them in just seven hours. That's an average of one rat every ten seconds! This incredible, documented feat highlights the formidable vermin-catching prowess that defines the 'Terrier' in 'Rat Terrier'.

Even centuries ago, dogs were essential for pest control. The earliest known record of such a working dog comes from the sunken Mary Rose, flagship of Henry VIII. Among the recovered remains from 1545 was 'Hatch,' a mongrel tasked with keeping the ship's rat population in check—a job crucial for sanitation and preserving supplies.

An American Original

Fast forward to America, and you find the Rat Terrier—a distinct breed developed right here in the United States. These lively dogs were specifically bred as invaluable farm hands and hunting companions, always ready to protect crops and livestock from pesky rodents.

The Rat Terrier's lineage is a fascinating blend of smaller hunting dogs, including several terrier types and the swift 'feists.' This diverse ancestry endowed them with a unique combination of speed, agility, and a relentless prey drive—perfect for tackling everything from rats to squirrels and even larger game.

By the 1920s and 30s, Rat Terriers were common sights on American family farms, an indispensable tool for survival. While they are now recognized by major kennel clubs, like the UKC and AKC, the breed is ironically considered somewhat rare today, a testament to how agricultural needs have shifted.

Modern Recognition and Achievements

Formal recognition by kennel clubs was a long time coming for these hardworking dogs. The United Kennel Club (UKC) officially welcomed the Rat Terrier on January 1, 1999, validating their status as a unique and established breed.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) followed suit, recognizing the breed on July 1, 2010. However, the AKC had already allowed Rat Terriers to compete in companion events like Obedience, Agility, and Rally starting in 2006, highlighting their intelligence and trainability beyond their traditional roles.

In fact, the very first Rat Terrier to earn an AKC title was Harpur's Giddy Upp 'Gigi' on January 14, 2006. Gigi achieved her title in Agility, demonstrating the breed's impressive athleticism and eagerness to please, blazing a trail for future Rat Terrier champions.

A Hardy Companion, With a Catch

Thanks to a history of diverse outcrossings—meaning they were bred with different dog types—the Rat Terrier is generally a very robust and healthy breed. Their genetic diversity has historically kept many common canine ailments at bay, a real advantage for any working dog.

However, as their popularity has grown in recent years, some health concerns have started to emerge. It's a common pattern in many breeds: as demand increases, careful breeding practices sometimes take a backseat, leading to potential issues surfacing.

To ensure the continued health of the breed, organizations like the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommend specific screenings. Prospective owners should look for breeders who test their dogs for a range of conditions, ensuring they're getting the healthiest possible puppy.

These recommended tests specifically target issues that can affect small, active breeds. By prioritizing these health checks, breeders and owners can help ensure Rat Terriers continue to live long, vibrant lives.

Patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps) Cardiac abnormalities (heart conditions) Pancreatic issues Hip dysplasia (improper hip joint formation) Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome (a hip joint disorder)