Rat Terrier vs Russian Toy
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Russian Toy: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Russian Toy: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Russian Toy: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
Russian Toy3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Russian Toy3/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Russian Toy3/5
Living Requirements
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
Russian Toy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay and loss
Eye Problems: Progressive vision loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Bone Fractures: Due to fragile frame
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
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
Russian Toy
Pros
Compact size
Minimal grooming needs
Affectionate nature
Good for apartments
Cons
Fragile build
Can be yappy
Not ideal with young children
Temperature sensitive
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Russian Toy Fun Fact
Russian Toys are one of the smallest dog breeds, originally developed as both ratters and lap warmers!
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.
Russian Toy
Origin:
Developed in Russia during the early 20th century as companion dogs for aristocracy, these tiny terriers served as ratters and fashionable lapdogs in urban households.
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.
Russian Toy
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate build, and regular dental care. Early socialization helps prevent excessive timidity.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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