• Fact 2 - Description and Definition of Rat Terriers: These are small short-bodied breeds of 'ratters' with natural erect ears. They were bred in America in the 1900's from European Terriers and Whippets and trained to hunt small animals living underground such as rabbits, mice but most of all rats and also to participate in rat baiting.
  • In rat baiting as many as 100 rats were put into a ring, or a rat pit, and wagers were made on whose dog could kill the most rats within a minute - for more info click Pitbulls
  • Click here for facts about different Breeds of Terriers
• Fact 3 - Size: The weight of Rat Terriers range from 12 - 18 pounds
• Fact 4 - Size: The height ranges from 12 - 16 inches, up to the shoulder
• Fact 5 - Alternative Names of Rat Terriers and Nicknames: Ratter
  • Origin of the name 'Terrier': This originates from the Latin word 'terra', meaning earth and the French name 'chien terrier' literally meaning 'dog of the earth'
• Fact 6 - Coat and colors of Rat Terriers: The coat is normally short, dense and smooth and is bi-colored or tri-colored or a shade of red, chocolate, yellow and blue
• Fact 7 - Life of Rat Terriers: the life expectancy of this breed of dog is between 13 - 16 years
• Fact 8 - The names of dog breeds are separated into different dog types which are referred to as Dog Groups. Rat Terriers are not currently Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and are therefore in the category of dogs termed Unrecognised Breeds
• Fact 9 - After the first year of life, dogs are considered to be adults - they equivalent to 16 human years!
• Fact 10 - Choosing Rat Terriers as pets! The following considerations should be taken into account when choosing this particular breed of dog as a pet:
  • How much it will cost to feed and train the dog?
  • How much time will it take to groom the dog?
  • How much time will it take to exercise the dog on a daily basis?
  • Are Rat Terriers suitable for children?
  • How much will it cost for vet bills, pet or dog health insurance, medication and vaccinations?
Fact 11 - Every breed of dog is susceptible to certain health problems and illnesses. Patterdale Terriers are resilient and hearty breeds and only prone to limited health problems and illnesses such as:
• - Eye problems - cataracts
• Fact 12 - Breeding Rat Terriers for appearance was only introduced in the 19th Century
• Fact 13 - It is estimated that 85% of dogs visit a vet in a year
• Fact 14 - The average cost of owning a medium sized dog, over a 10 year period, is estimated as over $13,000! This provides a good idea of how much it costs to raise Rat Terriers

For in depth information we highly recommend Dog Names and Breeds.