![]() Terriers can be stubborn and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things. The toughness that makes them suited to killing vermin can frustrate you when you try to teach them anything. Though more amenable to training than many other terriers, Rat Terriers must be taught at an early age that they are not the rulers of the world. You have to be equally quick to stop them. Terriers are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. The risk is too great that they will take off after anything that runs, oblivious to your frantic shouts. Terriers should not be trusted off-leash. But I would only count on this breed obeying his training in an enclosed area. Like all dogs, Rat Terriers must be taught to come when called. You may also need to sink wire into the ground along the fence line to thwart digging. You may need higher fences than you might imagine for their small size. Terriers need a fenced yard in which to stretch their legs, but many terriers are clever escape artists who will go over or under fences in search of adventure. But they are still a determined force to reckon with if they decide to initiate or accept a challenge to fight. They usually live peacefully with the other pets in their own family. Rat Terriers are less scrappy toward other animals than many other terrier breeds. ![]() Or join an earth dog club, where terriers are encouraged to dig and tunnel after small critters (which are secured in a sturdy cage so they can't be harmed). I recommend that you get your Rat Terrier involved in regular obedience classes at the intermediate or advanced level, or in ongoing agility classes (an obstacle course for dogs). Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation.But of course there are some individual Rat Terriers who will be in the higher end! Overall, as a breed, Rat Terriers tend to be in the lower-to-middle section of the terrier spectrum. But some terrier breeds are more so than others. The same words are used over and over – quick to bark, quick to chase, lively, bossy, feisty, scrappy, clever, independent, stubborn, persistent, impulsive, intense. Most terrier breeds are remarkably similar. If I was considering a Rat Terrier, I would be most concerned about. More traits and characteristics of the Rat Terrier Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your Rat Terrier to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy.With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Rat Terriers have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group.Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Potential aggression toward other animals – strong chasing instincts.Providing enough exercise and activities to keep them busy.The dynamic terrier temperament (see full description below).Is generally good with other dogs and cats in his own family.Comes in a range of smallish/middle sizes.Most Rat Terriers are somewhat vocal – not only barking, but also "talking" with a mumbled ra-ra-ra-ra to get your attention when they want something. He will cock his head and listen to you if you know how to be a good leader with dogs.īeing respectable terriers, Rat Terriers do love to tunnel and dig, so if you have beautiful gardens. Though he has a stubborn streak, he is also smart, sensitive, and attentive. He will dispatch squeaky creatures with little effort. Generally good with other dogs and cats in his own family, the Rat Terrier does have a high prey drive and quick reflexes. Rat Terriers crave lots of companionship, often using their paws to wrap around your neck or to demand attention. He is also curious and clever at solving problems, so be sure your fences are high and secure, else he will figure out how to escape. Your Rat Terrier should be kept in a fenced yard or on-leash, for he is an impulsive explorer who will take off after anything that runs. Most Rat Terriers are athletic and agile, LOVE to play, and have a special passion for chasing balls. Both sturdy and elegant, and often described as having a dual personality, the Rat Terrier is a tenacious hunter in the field, yet a sensible companion at home.
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