Rat Terrier vs English Setter
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
English Setter: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
English Setter: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
English Setter: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
English Setter4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
English Setter4/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
English Setter4/5
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
English Setter
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Bloat: Gastric dilatation risk
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
English Setter
Pros
Gentle and friendly temperament
Excellent with children
Athletic and versatile
Good hunting companion
Cons
Regular grooming required
High exercise needs
Can be stubborn
Moderate shedding
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
English Setter Fun Fact
Their unique speckled coat pattern, called 'belton,' is a trademark feature that only appears after birth.
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.
English Setter
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for hunting game birds, these dogs excelled at 'setting' or crouching low when locating birds, allowing hunters to cast nets over the game.
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.
English Setter
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Health screening for breed-specific issues recommended.
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