Are you looking for a little friend who wants to watch TV with you, go on walks, AND kill rats in the barn? Well, let us introduce you to the Rat Terrier! This multi-purpose pup was made in America by immigrants from a slew of their favorite small terriers, beagles, whippets, and Italian greyhounds. Capable as ratters and guardians, they were the quintessential farm during the early 1900’s, performing a variety of barnyard tasks. They are lithe and athletic and their sleek coats come in a variety of colors. They are affectionate family pets, though tend to be wary of strangers. Rat Terriers take well to obedience training and agility, which helps to expend their vivacious, terrier energy. They shed once a year but otherwise require minimal brushing.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
