The rat terrier is a well-known breed that was utilized as a ratter, meaning they caught rats in farms and places that required vermin control. While this is their historic description and what they were useful for the most in the past, rat terriers are primarily used as companion animals in today’s world.
In fact, rat terriers are increasing in popularity, thanks to their affectionate personalities and fairly small size. Along with the rat terrier’s increase in popularity, many also have an interest in the mixes of these dogs, which can make an equally fun and loving companion. If you’re interested in learning more about rat terrier mixes, this article is for you. We will take a look at more than a rat terrier mix to help you decide which one is the best for you.
Rat Terrier Characteristics
Before we dive deeper into what rat terrier mixes are like, let’s first take a closer look at this distinct breed. First and foremost, the rat terrier is an energetic breed that has an endless desire to work. They have high exercise and mental stimulation needs that require an active and involved owner. Those who are considering a rat terrier mix should keep this in mind because even the ones that are mixed with calmer breeds tend to want to stay active.
With this short introduction to keep in mind, here are the most common rat terrier mixes you will find. You will find the types of breeds that are commonly mixed with the rat terrier to learn more about the mixes of these dogs.
Rat Terrier Mixes – Smaller Breeds
Chihuahuas (Rat-Cha), Jack Russells (Jack-Rat), miniature pinschers (Mini Rat Pin), toy foxes, and beagles are among the most popular small breeds that the rat terrier is mixed with. These dogs tend to be overall like rat terriers but usually in a smaller package, through the other parent breed. Out of all these possible breeds, the Chihuahua is among the most popular, according to this Chihuahua rat terrier mix guide by Dog Academy.
Rat Terrier Mixes – Larger Breeds
When it comes to the larger breeds, the standard variety of the rat terrier is the most commonly used one, which is typically mixed with a handful of dog breeds. Among the few, they include the Labrador retriever, golden retriever, boxer, whippet, and greyhound. These dog breeds can add a unique charm to a rat terrier mix, making them appear just like a rat terrier in a bigger frame or similar to their other purebred parents.
Rat Terrier Mixes – Calmer Breeds
While the rat terrier is one of the most energetic dog breeds out there in this size, they are commonly mixed with certain calmer breeds to balance their energy levels. These breeds include the cavalier King Charles spaniel, bichon frise, pug, shih tzu, and the Maltese. However, note that the rat terrier mixes with calmer breeds tend to be still energetic, making them call for an owner who can meet their daily exercise and mental stimulation needs.
Rat Terrier Mixes – Energetic Breeds
Since the rat terrier is overall a highly energetic breed, it is safe to say that the mixes of these dogs, where another energetic breed is used, require daily exercise that extends beyond casual walks. Some of the purebred dogs that are commonly mixed with the rat terrier include the Australian shepherd, border collie, pointer, and the Fox terrier. These rat terrier mixes are often intense, meaning they need a lot of exercise, up to two hours a day.
Is a Rat Terrier Mix for You?
We’ve covered everything you need to know about a rat terrier mix in this article. Generally speaking, if you’re leading an active life and would enjoy the company of a dog that’s social around unfamiliar dogs and strangers, then a rat terrier mix, especially those mixed with other energetic breeds, is the dog for you.
Those who are looking for a more laid-back dog might want to look for another breed, as the rat terrier is full of energy, even the ones that are mixed with calmer breeds, and not meeting their needs daily can lead to an unruly dog that’s difficult to manage despite their small size.
