Ratting Dogs Breeds: Characteristics and Uses

Ratting dogs have been a crucial part of pest control for centuries, and their unique characteristics make them perfect for the job.

Their keen sense of smell and strong prey drive allow them to track and catch rodents with ease.

One of the most well-known ratting dog breeds is the Jack Russell Terrier, which originated in England in the 19th century.

The Jack Russell's small size and agility make it an ideal breed for navigating tight spaces and corners where rodents tend to hide.

The Sealyham Terrier is another breed that's well-suited for ratting, with a strong prey drive and a keen sense of smell that allows it to track its quarry.

Their independent nature and strong work ethic also make them a great fit for this type of work.

The Bull Terrier, with its muscular build and fearless attitude, is another breed that's been used for ratting in the past.

Their unique appearance and strong prey drive make them a formidable opponent for any rodent.

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Dogs have a long and proven history with rat catching, harking back to the 19th century. They were often sent to fight the war against rats, leaving the soldier's disease-free to fight on the battlefields.

Jack Russell Terriers were particularly well-suited for this task, being nibble dogs that could easily fit into tight spaces. These dogs were stars of the trenches, and their bravery was instrumental in keeping the soldiers safe.

During the Victorian era in London, rats became a major problem due to the city's overpopulation and low sanitation levels. The threat of disease was high, and rat catching dogs became in-demand to keep citizens safe from harm.

In the United Kingdom, many of the first documented ratcatchers were during the Victorian era. London became one of the most populous cities in the world, and the risks posed by rats increased.

One infamous ratcatcher in London was Jack Black, the self-styled 'Queen's ratcatcher.' He was often accompanied by a black and tan terrier, which would be used in blood sports like rat-baiting.

As modern-day methods of rat control have become widespread, the popularity of rat hunting dogs has fallen.

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Terriers are the most efficient breed for catching rats, thanks to their small size, long legs, and wiry bodies that make them perfect for digging and burrowing.

These small dogs are fast, agile, and strong, but above all, they are tenacious, never giving up the fight against pests.

In New York City, rat hunting dogs are used in a team effort to control the rat population. The R.A.T.S crew uses two groups of dogs for this purpose.

There are 'Push' dogs, which use their noses to discover rats in trash piles and garbage cans, and 'Catch' dogs, which are lightning-quick and pounce on the rats as soon as they are pushed from their hiding places.

This team effort makes the R.A.T.S. hunting dogs a formidable team, and they are proud of their lineage of terrier breeds.

Here's a breakdown of the two types of dogs used by the R.A.T.S crew:

If you're looking for a dog breed that's up for the task of catching rats, you'll want to consider terriers. These feisty little dogs were originally bred for hunting vermin, and they're still one of the best breeds for the job.

Terriers are typically small in size, but don't let that fool you - they're designed to seek out rats in hard-to-reach places. Their small stature makes them all the more skilled at hunting.

One of the most popular terrier breeds for ratting is the Jack Russell Terrier. Pioneered by Reverend John Russell in the late 18th century, this breed is known for its determination and bravery.

Other breeds that make excellent ratters include the Patterdale Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, and Norwich Terrier. These dogs have a long history of hunting vermin and are still used by pest control companies today.

Here are some popular rat hunting dog breeds:

Catching dogs are naturally skilled at sniffing out vermin, thanks to their 40 times stronger sense of smell compared to humans.

These dogs are typically small in size, but their compact stature makes them all the more skilled at hunting in hard-to-reach places.

Most ratter dogs have an unbreakable spirit and are determined to catch their prey, even if it takes multiple attempts.

Their strong prey drives make them fairly high-energy dogs that appreciate having a job or lots of engaging playtime to keep them entertained.

Ratter dogs can be somewhat independent and may not always want to cuddle, but they're incredibly loyal to their owners.

Here are some common characteristics of catching dogs:

Dogs used for catching rats are typically small in size, which makes them well-suited for hunting in hard-to-reach places.

These dogs are also determined and have an unbreakable spirit, which drives them to catch pests even if they don't succeed on the first try.

Most ratter dogs are terriers, which is no surprise given that terriers were originally bred to catch vermin.

Ratter dogs are brave and confident, which helps them to do their job effectively.

They have plenty of energy and need plenty of playtime and exercise to keep their tiny tails wagging.

Here are some common characteristics of ratter dogs:

These characteristics make ratter dogs well-suited for catching rats and other pests, and they can be a valuable asset for anyone dealing with a rodent problem.

Dogs can be just as effective as cats at catching rats, and in some cases, even better. Their digging skills give them an edge when it comes to catching rats outside.

Ratter dogs have a strong prey drive, which means they can chase down vermin off of instinct alone. This instinctual behavior helps them catch rats with ease.

Cats may have a reputation for being skilled rat catchers, but ratter dogs have some advantages that make them just as effective, if not more so.

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Ratter dogs are known for their strong prey drives, which means they have a natural instinct to chase and catch small animals. This can be a fun and entertaining aspect of owning a ratter dog, but it also requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Ratter dogs are small in size, but they're designed to fit into tight spaces and catch vermin that live in hard-to-reach areas. Their compact build makes them perfect for navigating through narrow tunnels and under furniture.

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If you're considering bringing a ratter dog into your home, it's essential to remember that they're determined animals that won't give up easily. They'll keep trying to catch that pesky mouse or rat until they succeed, and that's a great quality to have in a pet.

Ratter dogs have plenty of energy and need regular playtime and exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They're not ideal for sedentary owners, but if you're an active person who loves to play and exercise, a ratter dog could be a great companion.

Here are some key characteristics to consider when thinking about getting a ratter dog:

Overall, ratter dogs are loyal and loving companions that can bring a lot of joy and excitement into your life. With the right care and attention, they can thrive and become wonderful pets.

Ratting dog breeds are a special group of canines that have been bred to catch rodents. They're typically small, determined, and brave, with a strong prey drive that makes them perfect for the job.

Some popular ratting dog breeds include the Parson Russell Terrier, Patterdale Terrier, and Bedlington Terrier. These breeds have been used for centuries to catch vermin and are known for their intelligence, energy, and strong hunting instincts.

Here are some of the top ratting dog breeds:

These breeds are just a few examples of the many ratting dog breeds out there. Each one has its own unique characteristics and abilities, but they all share a common trait: a strong desire to catch rodents and protect their territory.

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier was developed from small and medium dogs of early American immigrants. They were likely crosses of Smooth Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers, Beagles, Whippets, Italian Greyhounds, and the now extinct White English Terrier.

Originally, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier was a variety of Rat Terrier with short-legs known as Type B. The long-legged version were known as Type A.

In the 1990s, breeders divided the two into their own distinct breeds. The short-legged Rat Terriers became Teddy Roosevelt Terriers.

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier was named after President Teddy Roosevelt, who is believed to have owned a few of them.

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Rat terriers are incredibly versatile dogs, able to thrive in both urban and rural settings. They're not just limited to city streets, but can also be found working on farms and in rural areas.

In rural areas, rat terriers have been used to eradicate vermin and hunt small game on farms. This is due in part to their ability to kill over a hundred rats in a day, as seen with Jordan Reed's team, the 'Mongrol Hoard'.

Rat terriers were also popular farm dogs in the United States throughout the early 20th century. They were highly valued for their ability to root out rats and other small game.

Some of the most popular breeds used for ratting in both urban and rural settings include the Patterdale Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, and Norwich Terrier. These breeds are known for their tenacity and ability to navigate tight spaces.

Here are some of the top ratting dog breeds that can be found in both urban and rural settings:

The Affenpinscher is a breed that's part of the Toy Group, but its origins are more like that of a terrier.

They were bred to exterminate rats and other vermin from German stables in the 1600s, making them a natural fit for this article.

The breed was originally larger and more equipped to hunt rats, but over time they developed into dogs with two purposes: as ratters and devoted companions.

Their exact genetic origins are unknown, but it's believed they descended from German Pinschers and Pugs, among others.

The Affenpinscher's versatility has also led to their use in developing several other breeds, including the Brussels Griffon and Miniature Schnauzer.

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The Brussels Griffon is a small but mighty ratting dog breed that's sure to capture your heart. They originated in Brussels, Belgium in the early 1800s as a rat dog to control rodent populations in stables.

Their ancestors include Pugs, English Toy Spaniels, King Charles Spaniels, an old Belgian breed called the Brabancon, and maybe even Yorkshire terriers. This mix of breeds helped create a dog that's both a skilled ratter and a loyal companion.

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Brussels Griffons are part of the Toy Group, but their origins are more like that of a terrier. They were bred to exterminate rats and other vermin from German stables in the 1600s, but eventually developed into dogs with two purposes: ratters and devoted companions.

Their small size makes them all the more skilled at hunting, and they're brave, confident, and happy to do just about anything to get the job done. But don't let their small size fool you - they still need plenty of playtime and exercise to keep their tiny tails wagging.

Here are some key characteristics of the Brussels Griffon breed:

The Lakeland Terrier is one of the oldest terriers from Britain, dating back to the 1700s. They originated in the Lake District in northern England, bred to hunt critters on the farm.

Their small size and high energy helps them excel at hunting in hard to reach places. They were also tasked with chasing away and even hunting foxes that would enter the property looking for livestock.

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The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) between 1921 and 1928 (exact year is debated) and by the AKC in 1934. Today, the Lakeland Terrier is still used for hunting, but also makes a great family pet.

Here are some key characteristics of the Lakeland Terrier breed:

The Dachshund is a breed with a rich history, dating back 600 years or so to Germany. Their name "Dachshund" translates to "badger dog", which was their original purpose - hunting badgers.

Their distinctive long and low body type was made specifically for their work in the ground. This design allowed them to crawl into burrows and chase after rodents.

The Dachshund's down-ears protected their ear canal from dirt and debris, while their curved tail allowed them to be seen in tall grass and pulled from a burrow if stuck. Their coats were also designed for their work, with wire coats allowing for work in thorny areas and long coats helping to insulate in colder climates.

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The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1885 and the UKC in 1919. They come in two sizes, with standards weighing around 30 pounds and miniatures weighing up to 11 pounds.

Here's a comparison of the two sizes:

The exact ancestry of the Dachshund is unknown, but it's believed to have descended from hounds and terriers from Germany, France, and England.

The German Pinscher is a breed that originated in Germany around the 1800s. They were bred to be farm dogs that exterminated rats and other rodents.

Their agility and prey drive made them effective ratters. The German word "pinscher" means "to nip or seize", which is exactly what they did.

German Pinschers descended from European farm dogs that guarded and herded. They were originally categorized with the Schnauzer breed, but the two eventually became distinct.

The German Pinscher was used to develop several well-known German breeds, including the Doberman and Rottweiler.

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The Miniature Fox Terrier is a breed developed by Australian hunters to hunt small game like rats, rabbits, and snakes.

They were created by crossbreeding smaller Fox Terriers with other breeds such as Toy Manchester Terriers, English Toy Terriers, and Whippets.

This unique combination of breeds allowed the Miniature Fox Terrier to inherit desirable hunting characteristics like speed, endurance, and determination.

Australian farmers affectionately called them "little foxies" and today they're known colloquially in Australia as the "Mini Foxie".

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The Miniature Schnauzer is a fantastic breed for anyone looking for a loyal companion that's also great at ridding their home of unwanted critters. This low-shedding dog was originally developed in Germany to serve as a ratter on farms.

In fact, the breed's name "Schnauzer" actually means "growler", which gives you an idea of their tendency to serve as a vocal watchdog for their family. They're also known for their charming personalities packed into small frames.

The Miniature Schnauzer was developed from the Standard Schnauzer, which was bred to be an all-around farm dog who was able to hunt rats, herd livestock and guard the property. Over time, farmers wanted a smaller dog and began developing the mini to target vermin.

These sporty sweethearts love to get in on the action and enjoy intense play. They get along well with other animals and kids, making them excellent family companions.

Here are some key facts about the Miniature Schnauzer:

As a loyal companion, the Miniature Schnauzer is a great choice for anyone who wants a dog that's not only great at ridding their home of pests but also loves to play and be part of the family.

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The Norfolk Terrier is a small but mighty breed that's well-suited for ratting. They originated in Britain in the 1800s to kill rodents on farms, and their reputation as excellent ratters spread quickly.

One of the unique features of the Norfolk Terrier is its small size, making it perfect for hunting vermin in hard-to-reach places. They were originally bred to be compact and agile, allowing them to navigate tight spaces with ease.

Norfolk Terriers were often used on farms and campuses to control rodent populations, earning them the nickname "Cantab Terriers" among Cambridge University students. This breed's ability to work independently and effectively in underground tunnels is a testament to its bravery and determination.

Here are some key facts about the Norfolk Terrier breed:

Overall, the Norfolk Terrier is a remarkable breed with a rich history and impressive skills. If you're looking for a dog that's brave, determined, and effective at catching rats, the Norfolk Terrier is definitely worth considering.

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The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest breeds of terrier, making them particularly stealthy for catching rats and foxes. They originated in Britain in the 1800s to kill rodents on farms.

Their reputation as excellent ratters spread, and by the late 19th century, Cambridge University students brought them in to help with the rat problems on campus, giving them their nickname Cantab Terriers. They are small, tenacious, and extraordinarily determined dogs.

In 1964, the Norwich Terrier was distinguished from the Norfolk Terrier by the UKC, and the two breeds were recognized separately by the AKC in 1979.

Here are some key characteristics of the Norwich Terrier breed:

As a small dog, the Norwich Terrier is well-suited for hunting rats in tight spaces, and they are naturally alert, making them excellent watchdogs.

The Standard Schnauzer is the oldest of all Schnauzers, arising on Bavarian farms in the Middle Ages and featured in artwork dating back to 1492.

These German farm dogs served many purposes, from hunting vermin to herding livestock to guarding the property. The breed was originally called "Wire-Haired Pinscher" until 1879 when the term Schnauzer was adopted.

The word "Schnauzer" translates to "snouter" from the German word for "snout" and colloquially means "mustache" or "whiskered snout" because of the breed's distinctive beard. Standard Schnauzers were introduced to America by 1900.

They may also have been crossed with a black Poodle, a gray Wolf Spitz, and a Bolognese dog. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1904.