Like many of the terrier breeds the Rat Terrier was originally bred to hunt vermin such as rats and mice and slightly larger quarry like the hare and squirrel.
The Rat Terrier was bred from other kinds of terriers and the Whippet from whence they get their speed. They are fast and tough in spite of their somewhat delicate appearance.
They are occasionally mistaken for a Jack Russell Terrier, but their temperament and profile differ quite extensively. They are not as aggressive as the Jack Russell and are much easier to train, making them popular as pets as well as farm workers.
They are good with children, lively and inquisitive with lots of energy. Although they are friendly with strangers, they still make good watchdogs as they bark when something disturbs them. However, they are not considered nuisance yappers. The Rat Terriers strong digging trait will get them out of many a yard, but they quite like life indoors so long as they are exercised frequently.
The Rat Terrier was brought into the US from Britain and often used in rat pit gambling. Their short hair means that grooming is minimal and their easy-going and friendly nature sees them popular for a family dog.
Since the Rat Terrier was bred in England for hunting vermin, that is the type of meats they would have been fed, along with vegetables and grain such as barley and rye. Lighter meats such as poultry, pork and lamb would then be suitable for the Rat Terrier’s diet. Avoid soy, fish, rice, beet and corn products.*
As for the Rat Terrier and most breeds of dogs it is highly recommended that a quality dog vitamin supplement be added as a regular part of their daily nutrition as dog foods alone cannot provide all of the vitamins, minerals and nutrition that your beloved Rat Terrier needs. A quality dog vitamin will aid in maintaining a healthy dog and thereby increasing their quality of life and longevity.

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*Before altering your dog's diet it is absolutely necessary that you discuss this with your vet. Your veterinarian should have all the vital information on your dog such as any previous ailments etc. and should make the final determination on the proper feeding and nutrition of your dog.
To learn more about the ingredients that NuVet uses and the benefits of each, please follow this link. NuVet Dog Vitamin Supplement Ingredients |