All about Rat-Harrier dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Rat-Harrier" Breed (parent breeds: "Harrier" × "Rat Terrier")

The average weight for an adult Rat-Harrier typically falls between 25 and 45 pounds. This healthy weight range can vary slightly, with males often being on the higher end of the spectrum compared to females. Factors like individual genetics, diet, and activity level will also influence the ultimate Rat-Harrier size. Potential adopters should note this typical Rat-Harrier weight when considering if this breed is the right fit for their lifestyle and living situation.

Rat-Harrier Height: Your Guide to Their Average Size

Discover the diverse and striking Rat-Harrier colors! As a cross between the Harrier and Rat Terrier, this breed inherits a wide spectrum of coat possibilities. Prospective owners will find a range of options, influencing Rat-Harrier pricing and availability.

Rat-Harrier Personality & TemperamentThe Rat-Harrier is an energetic and intelligent companion, blending the Harrier's stamina and pack drive with the Rat Terrier's quick wit and tenacious spirit. Expect a loyal and affectionate dog that forms strong bonds with its family. Their friendly nature generally makes them welcoming to familiar faces, though some may exhibit a watchful reserve typical of terriers.These dogs are highly sociable and thrive on interaction, making them less suited for prolonged periods of solitude. They are adaptable to various living situations with proper exercise, but their energy levels mean they are not ideal for apartment living unless daily, vigorous activity is guaranteed. A secure yard for play and exploration is highly beneficial.With children, well-socialized Rat-Harriers can be playful and patient companions, especially if raised together. Supervision is always recommended with younger children due to their potential for boisterous play. Regarding other pets, their prey drive, inherited from both parent breeds, means they may chase smaller animals. Early socialization is crucial for developing harmonious relationships with cats and other small pets. They generally get along well with other dogs, especially when introduced properly. Their intelligence means they are highly trainable, eager to please, and excel in activities like agility and scent work. Expect a spirited and engaging companion ready for adventure!

The Rat-Harrier temperament is a fascinating blend of its Harrier and Rat Terrier lineage, resulting in a companion dog behavior that is generally alert, energetic, and affectionate.Expect a friendly and sociable dog that often enjoys being part of family activities. Their loyalty is strong, forming deep bonds with their human companions. While not excessively clingy, they thrive on interaction and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.Adaptability to apartment living can be challenging without sufficient exercise. They possess a good amount of energy and mental stimulation needs, so a home with a yard or a commitment to daily walks and playtime is ideal. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they are well-adjusted.With children, Rat-Harriers are typically good-natured and playful, especially if raised with them. However, as with all breeds, supervision is recommended, and children should be taught how to interact respectfully with dogs. Their natural prey drive means behavior with other pets, particularly smaller ones like cats or rodents, needs careful introduction and supervision. They can often coexist peacefully with other dogs if socialized early.While intelligent, they can exhibit a tendency toward stubbornness, especially during training. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best. They are generally not overly sensitive but respond best to gentle guidance rather than harsh corrections. Overall, the Rat-Harrier is a lively, loving, and intelligent breed seeking an active and engaged family.

Rat-Harrier Care: Your Comprehensive Guide

• Skin Issues: Due to potential wrinkle formation and short coats, they can be prone to allergies, skin fold dermatitis, and other skin irritations. Regular inspection and proper hygiene are key.
• Dental Care: Daily brushing with canine-specific toothpaste is highly recommended to prevent dental disease, which can lead to more serious health problems. Annual professional dental cleanings may be necessary.
• Weight Management: As mentioned, obesity is a significant concern. A balanced diet and consistent exercise are vital to prevent weight-related health issues like diabetes, joint strain, and heart disease.
• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS): If they inherit pronounced brachycephalic features, they may be susceptible to BAS, characterized by narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and other airway obstructions. Monitor for signs of breathing difficulty and seek veterinary attention if observed.
• Joint Issues: While generally robust, some individuals may inherit a predisposition to hip or elbow dysplasia from either parent breed. Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk and severity of these conditions.

Rat-Harrier Activity Level: The Rat-Harrier is a moderately active breed, blending the Harrier's endurance with the Rat Terrier's spirited bursts of energy. They generally require a good amount of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy, but their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy necessitates careful management of their activity.

I would rate the "Size" trait of the "Rat-Harrier" breed a 4 out of 10.The Rat-Harrier, being a cross between the Harrier and the Rat Terrier, would likely inherit a moderate to small-medium build. The Rat Terrier is a compact and athletic small dog, typically weighing 10-25 pounds and standing 10-13 inches tall. The Harrier, while larger, is still considered a medium-sized scent hound, usually weighing 45-60 pounds and standing 19-21 inches tall. The offspring would probably fall somewhere in between, but with a strong leaning towards the smaller side given the Rat Terrier's genetics. We can expect a Rat-Harrier to be a sturdy, well-muscled dog, but not particularly tall or heavy. They'd likely be in the 20-40 pound range and stand 14-18 inches tall, making them larger than most toy breeds but distinctly smaller than a Labrador or even a standard Beagle.This size makes the Rat-Harrier quite versatile. They are likely well-suited for apartment living, especially if they receive adequate daily exercise. Their moderate size also makes them excellent candidates for travel, easily fitting into airline carriers (depending on individual size) and not taking up an excessive amount of space in vehicles. For households with space constraints, the Rat-Harrier would be a good fit, as they don't require vast amounts of room indoors. Their compact yet athletic build allows them to be active companions without being overwhelming in smaller environments.

I'd rate the Rat-Harrier's grooming requirements as a 3. This breed would generally be considered easy to care for and low-maintenance compared to many other companion dogs.The Rat-Harrier inherits the short, dense coat of both parent breeds, meaning minimal shedding and no complex brushing routines. A weekly brush to remove loose hair and stimulate the skin would suffice. They are unlikely to have significant skin folds requiring specialized attention. Ear cleaning would be a standard occasional check, as with most dogs, and nail trimming would be a regular necessity, perhaps every few weeks, depending on their activity levels. Bathing would only be needed as-needed, perhaps every few months or if they get particularly dirty. Neither parent breed is particularly prone to skin issues or allergies, suggesting the Rat-Harrier would likely share this resilience, minimizing the need for frequent, specialized grooming due to health concerns.

I'd rate the Exercise Requirements of a Rat-Harrier at a 7 out of 10.The Rat-Harrier, a mix of the Harrier and Rat Terrier, inherits a strong work ethic and high energy from both sides. The Harrier is a scent hound bred for long hunts, possessing incredible stamina and a drive to follow its nose for miles. The Rat Terrier, while smaller, is a tenacious and agile ratter, known for bursts of speed and an alert, active mind.This combination suggests a dog that thrives on regular, structured activity. They would likely require at least an hour to an hour and a half of vigorous exercise daily, ideally broken into multiple sessions. This isn't a breed that will be content with a short walk around the block; they'll need opportunities to run, explore, and engage their minds. Long walks, jogging, hiking, and extensive playtime are essential. Their intelligence and agility also make them excellent candidates for dog sports like agility, flyball, or scent work, which provide both physical and mental stimulation. Without sufficient exercise, a Rat-Harrier could become bored, destructive, or anxious. While they don't possess the brachycephalic limitations that might restrict other breeds, their inherent drive for movement means they're built for sustained activity and would likely become restless and unhealthy with a sedentary lifestyle. They are definitely not a breed that thrives with minimal activity; they absolutely require structured routines to stay healthy and mentally stimulated.

I would rate the "Rat-Harrier" breed a 7 out of 10 for its watchdog ability.This rating stems from a blend of the parent breeds' inherent traits. The Rat Terrier contributes a significant level of alertness, a keen ear for unusual sounds, and a tendency towards vocalization, making them excellent early warning systems. They are often quite territorial and will not hesitate to bark at strangers approaching their home. The Harrier, while more focused on scent work and less overtly protective, still possesses a generally alert nature and a surprisingly deep, resonant bark that can be quite effective at deterring.Combining these, the Rat-Harrier is likely to be an attentive household watchdog, quickly noticing and reacting to unfamiliar sounds or people on or near its property. They will almost certainly use their voice to signal an intrusion, providing meaningful early warnings. While they may not be as overtly aggressive or physically imposing as some dedicated guard breeds, their persistent barking and assertive demeanor would likely be enough to make many potential intruders think twice. They are certainly more than a passive companion in this regard, actively participating in the security of their home environment through their vigilance and vocal alerts.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Rat-Harrier a 7.The Rat-Harrier inherits a blend of tendencies that lean towards generally positive dog-dog interactions, but with important nuances. The Harrier parent brings a strong pack drive, making them naturally inclined to enjoy canine company and typically sociable with other dogs. This contributes to a generally tolerant and friendly disposition. However, the Rat Terrier, while often playful, can also possess a higher prey drive and a more independent, sometimes assertive, streak, particularly with dogs of similar size or perceived as competitors.Therefore, a Rat-Harrier is likely to be quite compatible with other dogs, especially if properly socialized from a young age. They will often thrive in multi-dog households and enjoy the companionship. They are generally adaptable to dogs of different sizes, though their prey drive might require careful management around very small, fast-moving dogs, and their energetic nature means they'll appreciate playmates with similar energy levels. While outright aggression is uncommon with good socialization, their Rat Terrier heritage might mean they're less likely to back down from a challenge and may require careful introductions to ensure peace, especially with other dominant personalities. They typically require careful introductions and training to coexist peacefully with new dogs, but once integrated, they are usually a joy to have in canine company.

I would rate the Energetic trait of the Rat-Harrier at a 7 out of 10.The Rat-Harrier, being a mix of the Harrier and Rat Terrier, inherits a significant drive for activity. Harriers are scent hounds known for their endurance and tireless nature in the field, while Rat Terriers are feisty, intelligent, and highly active terriers with a strong prey drive. This combination suggests a dog that is naturally very active and requires substantial physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They would likely possess good endurance and a playful disposition, enjoying long walks, games of fetch, and potentially dog sports like agility or scent work. Their need for physical stimulation would be high, thriving on regular outdoor adventures.However, the mention of "brachycephalic anatomy" is a critical factor that brings the rating down from an even higher score. While both parent breeds are mesocephalic (medium-nosed), the introduction of brachycephaly, even if mild, can significantly impact stamina and exercise tolerance. Brachycephalic dogs are prone to respiratory issues, which can limit their ability to cool themselves efficiently and sustain high levels of activity, especially in warm weather or during intense exercise. Therefore, while their inherent drive to be active is strong, their physical capacity to consistently perform at an extreme level might be somewhat curtailed compared to a non-brachycephalic dog with similar energy drives. They are certainly not laid-back; they are an active breed that needs careful management of their exercise to avoid overheating or respiratory distress.

Rating the "Training Requirements" of the "Rat-Harrier" breed a 6 out of 10.The Rat-Harrier, a mix of the Harrier and Rat Terrier, presents a moderate challenge in training, leaning towards the more demanding side due to the combined traits of its parent breeds. Both Harriers and Rat Terriers are intelligent dogs, which is a significant advantage. They can learn commands quickly and understand expectations. However, this intelligence is often coupled with independent thinking and a streak of stubbornness. The Harrier's scent hound nature means they can easily get distracted by interesting smells, leading to a short attention span when a fascinating odor is present. This can make recall challenging and off-leash training require exceptional consistency. Rat Terriers, while sharp and eager to please in some contexts, also possess a strong prey drive and a confident, sometimes assertive, personality that can translate into stubbornness if they don't see the immediate benefit of a command.Responsiveness to commands will be good when engaged, but can waver if distractions are high or if the training isn't consistently stimulating. This breed will absolutely need consistency in commands, rules, and expectations. Any laxity will likely be exploited, and they'll quickly learn what they can get away with. Positive reinforcement, especially with high-value treats and enthusiastic praise, will be very effective as they are generally food-motivated and enjoy pleasing their human companions, but it needs to be applied consistently and strategically to overcome potential distractions and independent tendencies.This breed is not ideal for first-time dog owners who are looking for a completely "easy" dog. While a beginner with a strong commitment to structured routines, patience, and a willingness to seek professional guidance could manage, the Rat-Harrier truly benefits from experienced handling. They thrive with owners who understand dog behavior, can maintain firm but fair boundaries, and are prepared to invest significant time and effort into consistent training, socialization, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and address potential behavioral issues stemming from their intelligence and drive. Without proper training and consistent routines, they can become a handful.

I would rate the "Playful" trait of the Rat-Harrier a 9 out of 10.The Rat-Harrier, with its combination of the energetic and persistent Rat Terrier and the hardy, good-natured Harrier, is almost certainly a highly spirited and fun-loving breed. Both parent breeds are known for their stamina and zest for life, suggesting a dog that will be more naturally energetic than laid-back. You can expect a Rat-Harrier to have a high typical activity level, thriving on regular exercise and engaging playtime. Their love for games and interaction would be strong, likely inheriting the Rat Terrier's keenness for chasing and "hunting" toys, and the Harrier's desire to be involved in family activities. They would probably exhibit a fair amount of attention-seeking behavior, eager to initiate games or solicit cuddles, and respond to toys and playtime with immense enthusiasm. This breed would approach daily life with an overall sense of joyous vigor, always ready for the next adventure or game.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Rat-Harrier breed a 7 out of 10.The Rat-Harrier, being a cross between the Harrier and the Rat Terrier, inherits a fascinating blend of affection. The Rat Terrier parent is known for its intense loyalty and desire for human companionship, often displaying "velcro dog" tendencies, wanting to be close to their owners and following them from room to room. They are quite sensitive to owner emotions and thrive on interaction. The Harrier, while also a pack animal and therefore possessing an inherent desire for connection, can be a bit more independent due to its hunting background. They are affectionate with their families but might not be as constantly demanding of physical closeness as a purebred Rat Terrier.Therefore, the Rat-Harrier will likely be a very loving and devoted companion. They will certainly desire human companionship and show strong loyalty. They'll enjoy being near their family and will likely be sensitive to their owner's moods. You can expect a good amount of following around and appreciation for attention. However, they might not be the most extreme "lap dog" or constantly seeking physical contact, thanks to the Harrier's influence, offering a slight balance to the Rat Terrier's intense need for closeness. They are definitely a breed that thrives on affection and human interaction, but they might also be content to observe from a comfortable spot nearby rather than always being directly on your lap. They are more people-oriented than many independent breeds, but less relentlessly demanding of physical closeness than some "velcro" purebreds.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Rat-Harrier breed a 6 out of 10.The Rat-Harrier is a mixed breed combining the Harrier, a scenthound known for its pack mentality and moderate prey drive, with the Rat Terrier, a breed specifically developed to hunt and kill vermin, possessing a very high prey drive and often a strong independent streak. This combination creates a dog with a complex and somewhat unpredictable temperament around other animals.While a well-socialized Rat-Harrier, especially one raised with other pets from a young age, *can* coexist peacefully, it's not an inherent trait. The Harrier's pack instincts might lend itself to getting along with other dogs, but the Rat Terrier's strong prey drive can make interactions with smaller, prey-like animals (like cats, small rodents, or even smaller dog breeds) challenging or even dangerous without strict supervision. Resource guarding could also be a concern, stemming from either parent, especially if not addressed early with training. Early and consistent socialization is absolutely critical for this breed to learn appropriate behavior around other animals. Even then, owners would need to be vigilant, particularly with any smaller, more vulnerable pets. This breed isn't naturally "extremely pet-friendly" and will likely require significant training and ongoing supervision to ensure a harmonious multi-pet household.

Rating: 7/10The Rat-Harrier, a mix of the Harrier and Rat Terrier, rates a 7 out of 10 for "Good with Children." This breed generally inherits a playful and energetic disposition, making them fun companions for active kids. The Harrier's good-natured, tolerant temperament often balances the Rat Terrier's sometimes more intense and determined personality, resulting in a dog that can be quite patient. They usually enjoy being part of family activities and can be quite affectionate with children. However, their high energy levels mean they thrive with consistent exercise and mental stimulation; without it, they might become boisterous or bored, which could lead to less gentle interactions. While generally tolerant of noise and handling, especially if socialized from a young age, their Rat Terrier lineage means they might have a higher prey drive, requiring supervision with very young children or during boisterous play. This breed is not naturally gentle to the extent of a Golden Retriever, but with proper training, early socialization, and consistent supervision, they can be a wonderful, engaged family pet that enjoys playing and bonding with children. They benefit greatly from a household that establishes clear boundaries and provides plenty of engaging activities, rather than simply relying on an inherent placid nature.

Rating the "Good with Strangers" trait of the Rat-Harrier: 7/10The Rat-Harrier, a mix of the generally outgoing and friendly Harrier and the more alert and sometimes reserved Rat Terrier, tends to land in a moderately sociable but not universally welcoming territory. Their Harrier lineage contributes a natural inclination towards amiability, often resulting in a dog that is curious and generally polite with unfamiliar adults, and with proper socialization, can be quite friendly. However, the Rat Terrier's influence introduces a protective streak and a higher alert level. While not typically aggressive, they might initially be more observant and reserved around new people, with a potential for a warning bark if they perceive a threat or simply want to announce an arrival. They are adaptable in public or guest-filled environments once they understand the situation is safe, but may not seek out attention from every stranger. Early and consistent socialization is key to ensuring they lean towards the more welcoming side of their nature rather than the more reserved or guarding tendencies. They are naturally outgoing to an extent, but truly comfortable and calm interactions with a wide range of strangers benefit significantly from intentional exposure and positive reinforcement during their formative months.

I'd rate the "Winter" tolerance of the "Rat-Harrier" at a 5. While the Harrier parent brings a denser, weather-resistant coat and a more robust build, the Rat Terrier contributes a short, single coat and a smaller, leaner frame, which significantly limits cold tolerance. Rat-Harriers typically fall in the medium-small to medium size range, meaning less body mass to retain heat. They are not brachycephalic, so breathing in cold air isn't an immediate concern from an anatomical perspective. However, their likely thinner undercoat, inherited from the Rat Terrier, combined with a potentially lower body fat percentage, makes them susceptible to hypothermia in extended or very cold exposure. Compared to many other companion dogs, especially those with double coats or larger sizes, a Rat-Harrier will require more consideration during winter. They will likely need a coat or sweater for walks in freezing temperatures and their outdoor activity should be monitored and shortened to prevent discomfort and health risks, especially if they show signs of shivering or reluctance to move. They aren't extremely sensitive, but they definitely aren't built for prolonged winter fun without help.

Rating: 7The Rat-Harrier, a mix of the Harrier and Rat Terrier, would likely exhibit good, but not exceptional, heat tolerance. Neither parent breed is brachycephalic; the Harrier has a moderate muzzle and the Rat Terrier a more refined one, suggesting the Rat-Harrier would not suffer from the severe respiratory issues associated with flat-faced breeds in heat. Both parent breeds are active and possess relatively short coats, which aids in heat dissipation. The Harrier, originally bred for hunting, is accustomed to being outdoors, and the Rat Terrier is a robust farm dog. This heritage suggests an ability to regulate body temperature fairly well under normal conditions.However, a rating of 7 acknowledges that no dog is completely impervious to heatstroke, especially during peak summer temperatures or strenuous activity. While they wouldn't be as high-risk as a Bulldog, their activity drive could lead them to overexert themselves if not managed carefully. They would still require access to shade, fresh water, and a reduction in outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. Compared to other companion dogs, they might not need the extreme climate control of a brachycephalic breed, but they would still benefit from air conditioning on very hot days and careful monitoring to prevent overheating. Their need for exercise would mean owners must be particularly mindful of the time of day and intensity of summer activities.

I'd rate the "Healthiness" trait of the Rat-Harrier at a 7. This hybrid benefits from the general vigor often seen in crossbreeds, particularly when two relatively healthy parent breeds are involved. The Rat Terrier contributes a robust, long-lived constitution with a lower incidence of the more severe breed-specific health issues seen in some purebreds. The Harrier, while prone to some typical hound issues like hip and elbow dysplasia and certain eye conditions, is generally a hardy, active breed with a decent life expectancy. The Rat-Harrier is less likely to inherit the extreme conformation-related problems like brachycephalic breathing difficulties or severe joint issues that plague some very specialized breeds. However, responsible breeding is still crucial to screen for common canine ailments such as luxating patella (from the Rat Terrier side), hip/elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions (from the Harrier side). They are generally a moderately robust breed, not particularly high-maintenance in terms of health, but like all dogs, will benefit significantly from proper nutrition, regular exercise, and preventive veterinary care to maintain their overall well-being. Their active nature and likely high energy levels also contribute to good physical health when properly managed.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of the Rat-Harrier a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a blend of its parent breeds' tendencies. The Rat Terrier contributes a strong sense of alertness, often barking at anything unusual, and a feisty, tenacious personality, despite its smaller size. It's known for being loyal and quite bonded with its family, and this loyalty often translates into a desire to "protect" its people and territory through vigilant watchfulness and vocal alerts. The Harrier, while a scenthound, also possesses a pack mentality and can be quite vocal. While not typically a "guard dog" in the traditional sense of physically deterring a threat, a Harrier's size alone can be a deterrent, and their deep bark is certainly attention-grabbing.The Rat-Harrier would likely be an excellent watchdog, quick to notice and announce strangers with enthusiastic barking, thanks to the Rat Terrier's influence. Its territorial instincts would be moderate to high, particularly within its home. Its loyalty to owners would be very strong, leading it to view them as its "pack" to be defended. Its reaction to strangers would likely be wary initially, potentially with barking, until its owners indicate acceptance.While the Rat-Harrier is undoubtedly more of a companion dog due to its affectionate nature and trainable intelligence, its combined traits suggest it's quite capable of offering meaningful protection in a household setting primarily through its excellent watchdog abilities and the physical presence and alert nature it inherits. It might not be a large, intimidating guard dog, but its combination of alertness, vocalization, and loyalty would make it a very effective alarm system and a brave defender within its capabilities.

I'd rate the "Life Span" trait of the Rat-Harrier a 7 out of 10. This rating positions them as a moderately long-lived breed compared to other companion dogs. The Harrier parent breed typically enjoys a life span of 12-15 years, while the Rat Terrier often lives 13-18 years. Combining these, the Rat-Harrier can reasonably be expected to live around 12-16 years with proper care. They generally benefit from the hybrid vigor often seen in crossbreeds, which can reduce the incidence of some breed-specific genetic health issues. While both parent breeds are generally healthy, Harriers can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, and Rat Terriers can sometimes experience luxating patellas. Responsible breeding practices would involve screening for these conditions, and good nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care would significantly contribute to a long and healthy life. Therefore, while not reaching the extreme longevity of some toy breeds, the Rat-Harrier is considered a long-lived breed for its size, with the potential for an extended lifespan under optimal conditions.