Q: Personal experiences with rat terriers?
I know each dog is different, but it can't be denied that something can be generally found in certain breeds! I really want a lap dog. One that doesn't require much grooming maintenance either! I do not want to deal with haircuts. Bath? Just fine. Nails clipped? Just fine. Exercise? Just fine! Haircuts and daily high maintenance brushing no thanks!
Having said that the breed I'm interested in from most liked is Rat Terrier (alongside with Boston Terrier, Dachshund, Corgi)
Any personal experiences with this baby?
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Answers and Views:
Answer by DeeDawg
Rat terriers, despite their small size, are often "too much dog" for a lot of people. They are active, feisty hunting dogs and need a firm owner who sets and enforces clear rules, and they need a ton of exercise.
The breed you choose should have more to do with your own activities and energy level, and abilities to train it (or willingness to take a good class).
Answer by ms manners
Terriers, in general, are not particularly cuddly, so I don't really consider my rat terrier a lap dog (although right now he is sitting next to me with his head on my knee.)
Mine is very low maintenance......he stays cleaner than all my other dogs, so seldom needs bathing, requires very little brushing, and just periodic nail clipping.
He has considerable energy and loves to go for walks, but is calm at home as long as he gets a reasonable amount of exercise.
I have dealt with two rat terriers....my own, and a foster, and both were great dogs. My dog tends to be somewhat aloof, but the foster was quite social, so it probably depends on the dog.
Mine has the typical rat terrier high pitched shrieky bark, which is the only thing I do not care for.
Answer by Aduial
If you want a lap dog then stay away from terriers. They are high energy and high drive dogs.
Out of what you mentioned I think a Dachshund is best for you.
Answer by Horse Lover
I have a Rat Terrier too. She stays clean, needs very little brushing, loves to cuddle, loves walks, cats, kids, is obedient and was easy to train. She does have a high prey drive but is always on a leash when outdoors. The barking at the door is under control now. She actually looks to me first as if she is asking "Should I bark or not?"
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