Rat Terrier vs Schapendoes
Breed Compatibility
77% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Schapendoes: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Schapendoes: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Schapendoes: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
Schapendoes3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Schapendoes5/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Schapendoes3/5
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
Schapendoes
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Cataracts: Clouding of eye lens
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease risk
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
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
Schapendoes
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Highly trainable
Weather-resistant coat
Athletic and agile
Cons
Regular grooming required
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Schapendoes Fun Fact
Their distinctive shaggy coat naturally repels water and dirt, a trait developed for working in Dutch weather.
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.
Schapendoes
Origin:
Dutch shepherds developed these dogs in the 1800s to herd sheep in the Netherlands' challenging terrain. Their agile nature and weather-resistant coat proved invaluable.
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.
Schapendoes
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization important to manage herding instincts.
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