I love rat terriers and I have one, they are great little dogs. Fun loving, loyal, low maintence to take care of the coat and they train easily. If you have cats, lizards, ferrets or any other manner of little fuzzy pet however, I would think about another dog breed, Rat terriers have a super high prey drive.

Our rat terrier Simon is the greatest dog I could imagine. He's a great watch dog, barking at unusual noises but not every little sound, super athletic and fit, amazingly smart, learns very quickly, listens and obeys, and adapts to any activity we're doing. If we're relaxing, he's right there relaxing with us, if we're running, swimming, hiking, he's game. This breed isn't supposed to be into water, but he goes crazy over fetching sticks out of lakes and rivers and is an excellent swimmer. He stays right with us backpacking for miles and miles off the leash, and although he has energy to spare, he's ready to curl up in the sleeping bag with us when we turn in for the night. Don't be fooled by Rat Terrier's small size - they pack more 'big dog' punch than most big dogs, and don't tire as easily. With the exception of greyhounds, Simon is faster than any dog he's ever run with including border collies and heelers. He's excellent with people, great with kids of all ages, and loves every dog. This breed is also extremely clean and never stinks, and he's three and has never, ever had fleas or any health problems at all. I can't say enough good things about this amazing breed.

I Own a Rat Terrier(Buster) and am completely impressed by the breed. Buster needed little training for Rat Terriers are so eager to please their master. Buster is a loyal dog who is a comedian if any dog breed could ever be called such. Rat Terriers are happy and playful pets they love kids, adults, other dogs and cats or any other family pet if acclimated to them. Rat Terriers are outstanding watch dogs who even when a sleep are on guard for the slightest noise. There breeding is clearly eveident when it comes to rats, squirrels, birds, chipmunks, vermin and unwanted cats in my backyard and in this respect Rat Terriers are KILLERS showing their My Hyde side with ferocity unseen in most dogs. Rat Terriers are also very comunicative with the ability to make a variety of sounds to let you know what they want or they are trying to alert you to a situation. Rat Terriers are also size blind and like any other Terrier will not back down from a fight. I have had Buster mix it up with dogs ten time his size while duking it out with Rattlesnakes when i take him backpacking in the mountains. Rat Terriers are healty dogs living on average 12 to 18 years. Rat Terriers are extremly athletic able to perfom feats most dogs cannot, their speed and quickness are second to none. While not a draw back Rat Terriers are not much for the water, while they can swim they will only do it out of necessity. Rat Terries have no known maladies or hereditary ailments which is a testament to their long health life. Indoor or Outdoor a Rat terrier given the proper training by a responsible Human will reward their owner with excellant companionship. On my Home page is a picture of Buster backpacking with her buddy Pepper and I in the Dolly Sods Wilderness in the Monongahela National Forest West Virginia.

this is actually a mixed breed dog, misclassified by some as pure. also, is this not the worst name ever for a dog? i love all animals.

My rescued rat terrier is extremely intelligent and although nervous with strangers due to his background, is a completely loving, cuddling sweetheart with people he trusts.