German Shorthaired Pointer vs Rat Terrier
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
German Shorthaired Pointer: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
German Shorthaired Pointer: Eager to Please1.0
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
German Shorthaired Pointer: Weekly Brushing0.4
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
German Shorthaired Pointer5/5
Rat Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
German Shorthaired Pointer4/5
Rat Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
German Shorthaired Pointer4/5
Rat Terrier5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
German Shorthaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
Lymphedema: Tissue swelling concern
Rat Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Vision deterioration
Hip Issues: Joint complications
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Pros & Cons Comparison
German Shorthaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Highly trainable
Versatile athlete
Great family dog
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Requires consistent training
May be too energetic for some
Rat Terrier
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Low maintenance grooming
Good with children
Highly trainable
Adaptable to various living situations
Cons
Can be vocal
High prey drive
May be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Can be territorial
German Shorthaired Pointer Fun Fact
Can maintain speeds of up to 35 mph while running and are excellent swimmers due to their webbed feet.
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Heritage & Purpose
German Shorthaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 1800s as a versatile hunting companion, excelling in both pointing and retrieving game birds across varied terrain types.
Rat Terrier
Origin:
Developed in America during the 1800s as farm dogs and vermin hunters. These skilled ratters protected grain stores and farmland from rodent infestations across rural areas.
Special Considerations
German Shorthaired Pointer
Needs extensive daily exercise, regular grooming despite short coat, and monitoring for breed-specific health issues like hip dysplasia.
Rat Terrier
Regular dental care is crucial. Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.