Rat Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Yorkshire Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Yorkshire Terrier: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Yorkshire Terrier: Specialty/Professional1.0
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
Yorkshire Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Yorkshire Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Yorkshire Terrier5/5
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
Yorkshire Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Portosystemic Shunt: Liver condition
Tracheal Collapse: Airway weakness
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Retinal Dysplasia: Eye development
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar
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
Yorkshire Terrier
Pros
Portable size
Minimal shedding
Adaptable to apartment living
Long lifespan
Affectionate with family
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be yappy
Delicate physique
Stubborn streak
Difficult to housebreak
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Yorkshire Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their tiny size, Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs to catch rats in textile mills!
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.
Yorkshire Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in Yorkshire, England during the 1800s, these small terriers excelled at catching rats in textile mills. Working-class weavers bred them for their hunting prowess and portable size.
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.
Yorkshire Terrier
Professional grooming needed for long coat maintenance. Daily brushing required. Small size makes them vulnerable to injury. Need protection from extreme temperatures.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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