Rat Terrier Dog Pictures

Rat Terrier dog pictures portray a lively breed that makes an adventurous companion. These dogs aren't quite as common as some of the other terrier breeds, but they're worth getting to know.

Rat Terriers are athletic little dogs with plenty of energy. They are quick-witted and make playful family companions.

Rat Terriers come in many colors, but according to the breed standard, they should have some white in their coat.

Bred more for the purpose of hunting vermin rather than for "type," a number of other breeds are in the Rat Terrier's background. Currently Ratties come in three different sizes including toy, miniature and standard. There's also a Decker Rat Terrier that is about 22 to 40 pounds.

Rat Terriers are fairly long-lived, and many live as long as 18 years. These dogs also remain active well into their senior years.

For some people, it's difficult to tell a Rat Terrier from a Chihuahua. Chihuahuas have distinctly domed foreheads and short muzzles, but this Rat Terrier dog picture clearly shows that this breed has a longer muzzle and less prominent forehead.

Like their adult counterparts, Rat Terrier puppies are high energy dogs that need lots of exercise, enrichment and training. They respond well to positive reinforcement training and excel in puppy socialization, training and agility classes.

When it comes to the Rat Terrier personality, they are definitely feisty like all members of the terrier group. They're known for being very in tune with their owners though and have been described as "sensitive and intuitive." There's some risk of them developing separation anxiety because of their devotion to their owners.

Miniature Rat Terriers are 10 to 18 inches high and Toy Rat Terriers are no taller than 12 inches. The Toy terriers weigh about 5 to 10 pounds total.

There are some popular Rat Terrier mixes including the Rat-Cha, a mix with Chihuahua. Other popular Rat Terrier mixes are the American Rat Pinscher (mixed with Miniature Pinscher) and the Jack-Rat Terrier (mixed with Jack Russell Terrier).

Rat Terriers truly love their special people, and they are incredibly loyal to them. Once one of these dogs becomes a part of your life, it's hard to live without him.

More Terrier Information

If you enjoyed these pictures, perhaps you're ready to find a Rat Terrier breeder or rescue group with dogs available for sale or adoption. Or, maybe you're ready to learn about more types of Terriers. If so, check out these Cairn Terrier Pictures.