Rat Terrier vs Swedish Lapphund
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Swedish Lapphund: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Swedish Lapphund: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Swedish Lapphund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
Swedish Lapphund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Swedish Lapphund3/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Swedish Lapphund4/5
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
Swedish Lapphund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Cataracts: Lens opacity development
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease 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
Swedish Lapphund
Pros
Excellent cold weather tolerance
Strong herding instincts
Loyal family companion
Good with children
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong prey drive
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Swedish Lapphund Fun Fact
Swedish Lapphunds can effectively herd reindeer by using their distinctive barking pattern to control the herd.
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.
Swedish Lapphund
Origin:
Developed in Lapland during the 17th century, these dogs served as reindeer herders and watchdogs for the Sami people in northern Scandinavia.
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.
Swedish Lapphund
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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