Rat Terriers
 
The Breed EVERYONE wants, but few people know about!

Rat Terriers originated in England in the 1820's and came to America i70 years later.  This breed was developed by crossing the smooth haired Fox Terrier and the Manchester Terrier.  The Rat Terrier breed standard was written by the National Rat Terrier Association and adopted by the Universal Kennel Club International (UKCI) and the Rat Terrier Club of America. 

They can be black, blue, red, lemon, charcoal or liver in color. The chocolate and liver colors must have a chocolate, liver or red nose. Markings can be with white, tan, or with white and tan. Patterns are acceptable as Tricolors, piebald (patches of colour), solid or brindle (face only). Disqualifying colors are pure white, merle, or brindle on any part of the body other than the face.   They have feisty little personalities and are very easy  to train and live with.  If you enjoy hiking or going for long walks, a Rat Terrier would certainly fit into your life.  They are generally wonderful companions for children, being even tempered and intelligent.  They do not shed much, and are wonderful at controlling the vermin (e.g. mice, rabbits, squirrels) in your area.  In some areas of the USA, Rat Terriers even hunt deer!

I acquired my first Rat Terrier, Trymine's Lil Tequila, in 1997.  I immediately fell in love with her and the breed.  I am currently involved in trying to have Rat Terriers become a recognized breed with the Canadian Kennel Club.  Right now, the Universal Kennel Club International and the United Kennel Club (UKC) are the organizations of choice for registering this breed.  The UKCI has been keeping data on Rat Terriers since 1938 and is the only organization to offer a certified 5 generation pedigree for this breed.  For more information on Rat Terriers, please visit the American Rat Terrier Club's home page.

Photo by Special Events Digital Photo

This is Trymine's Lil Tequila.  She is a lemon and white Rat Terrier bitch.  She has several lemon markings on her back.  She stands 13" tall at the shoulder and weighs approximately 13 pounds.  She has a witty personality, and is the sweetest little thing.