Training: Although they are very smart, the Rat Terrier can be stubborn, so persistence and patience is the key to training.
“If you tell them not to jump on the couch, they won’t try it the same way twice, but they might come up with 15 different ways to get on the couch before they finally accept that the couch is off limits,” says Kallas. “Then you might have to do it all over again the next day because according to your Rat Terrier, you could change your mind and they need to make sure!”
Barking: A bored Rat Terrier left to his own devices will bark, dig and get into all kinds of mischievous behavior, says Kallas. Proper training and exercise, as well as the time and attention of their people, will go a long way to addressing this behavior.
Personality: Feisty and funny, ornery and entertaining, the Rat Terrier is an intelligent breed with many charming traits. When given consistent training they can make great family pets, but it’s important to keep their predisposition for hunting and shenanigans in mind.
Temperament & Behavior: Rat Terriers have a few personality quirks that necessitate early socialization, so proper training is required to have a well-mannered companion.
“They are hunters at heart and will happily chase anything that chooses to run away,” says Tracey Kallas, a breeder at K2 Rat Terriers and AKC/UKC Rat Terrier judge. “Being smart and clever and loving to dig makes them excellent escape artists. They live to be with their people, and unlike many terriers will go out of their way to make sure all family members are included in the fun.”
Behavior with Kids: When properly trained, Rat Terriers will provide fun-loving, energetic entertainment for kids of any age.
Protection: Unlikely to let anything approach his area without a proper verbal warning, the Rat Terrier makes a terrific, alert guard dog.
