Rat Terrier vs Chow Chow
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Chow Chow: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Chow Chow: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Chow Chow: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
Chow Chow3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Chow Chow2/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Chow Chow2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Chow Chow
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Thyroid Disease: Hormone imbalance
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap problems
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Chow Chow
Pros
Loyal to family
Clean and cat-like
Excellent guard dog
Minimal barking
Independent nature
Cons
Stubborn personality
Challenging to train
Heavy shedding
Aloof with strangers
Requires regular grooming
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Chow Chow Fun Fact
The Chow Chow is one of few breeds naturally born with a blue-black tongue, a trait shared only with Shar-Peis.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Chow Chow
Origin:
Dating back to China's Han Dynasty, these dogs served as palace guardians and hunting companions. Their versatile nature made them valuable working dogs across Asia.
Special Considerations
Rat Terrier
Regular dental care is crucial. Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Chow Chow
Regular brushing essential for thick double coat. Moderate exercise needs but sensitive to heat. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
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