Rat Terrier vs Welsh Springer Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Welsh Springer Spaniel: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Welsh Springer Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Welsh Springer Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
Welsh Springer Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Welsh Springer Spaniel4/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Welsh Springer Spaniel1/5
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
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure issue
Entropion: Inward rolling of eyelids
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance risks
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
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Trainable
Athletic
Affectionate
Cons
Needs regular exercise
Regular grooming required
Can be reserved with strangers
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!
Welsh Springer Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive red and white coat pattern has remained unchanged for centuries in Welsh hunting circles.
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.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in Wales during the 1800s as skilled hunting companions, these spaniels excelled at flushing and retrieving game in challenging Welsh terrain.
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.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Weekly grooming sessions needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise routine. Regular eye checks and hip evaluations recommended for preventive care.
Shedding
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