Jags Goldie
Last updated: 17th November 2022
Prague Ratter (Pražský Krysařík)
By
Jags Goldie
Last updated: 17th November 2022
The Prague Ratter, also known as Pražský Krysařík, is considered the smallest dog breed in the world measured by its height. As the name suggests, it was initially used for hunting rats in urban and rural households. Somewhat similar in appearance with the Miniature Pinscher and the Chihuahua it is characterized by a lean body, pear-shaped head, moderately long neck, narrow, fox-like muzzle, triangular, naturally erected ears, and broad chest.
Prague Ratter Pictures
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- Prague Ratter Dog
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- Prague Ratter Images
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- Prague Ratter Photos
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- Prague Ratter Pictures
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- Prague Ratter Puppies
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- Prague Ratter Puppy
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- Prague Ratter
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- Prague Ratters
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- Pražský Krysarík
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- Prazsky Krysavik
Quick Information
| Other Names | Prazsky Krysavik |
| Coat | Smooth, shorthaired, thick, glossy |
| Color | Brown and tan, black and tan |
| Breed Type | Purebred |
| Category | Companion Dogs, Toy Dogs |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Weight | 3-8 lbs |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 7.8-9 inches |
| Shedding | Average |
| Size of Litter | 3-6 puppies |
| Temperament | Friendly, gentle, curious, alert, lively |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Good with Children | Yes |
| Barking | Little |
| Country Originated in | Czech Republic |
| Competitive Registration/ Qualification Information | DRA |
History
Developed by the Slovaks and Czechs, the Pražský Krysařík has been a popular pet in the European royal families since the Middle Ages. The Polish ruler Boleslaw II became fond of this breed and imported two of these dogs from Bohemia. With the increase in popularity of the Miniature Pinscher during the 19th century, the Prague Ratters sharply declined in numbers.
In the 1980s, the breed was revived by an improvement in breeding programs. Today, there are about 6000 registered Prazsky Krysavik in the world. Although they are not registered by any major kennel clubs and breed organizations, they compete in dog shows in Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
Temperament and Behavior
The Prague Ratter, being an active and spirited dog by nature, has been an efficient rat hunter since its origin. Known to have a tremendous preying instinct, it will readily chase small animals including squirrels, cats, mice, and rats.
It forms strong bonds with its people and loves to impress its owner with its antics, often playing the role of a lap dog. It is distrustful of strangers and can be a little aggressive or display Small Dog Syndrome if not socialized early.
Care
Exercise
As active little dogs, the Prague Ratter needs daily walks and some off-leash romp in a large, fenced yard. It loves playing fetch and mostly trained for obedience, tracking, and dog agility.
Grooming
Its shorthaired coat requires an occasional gentle brushing and some superficial cleaning using a damp cloth. Clean your dog’s ears now and then, and trim its overgrown nails.
Health Problems
The Prague Ratter has thin-boned legs, which makes it susceptible to injuries. It may also suffer from common genetic health concerns like patellar luxation.
Training
Since the Prague Ratter always wants to please its owner, it responds well to training.
Socialization
The Prazsky Krysavik needs to be introduced to different people and exposed to various sights and sounds when it is young. Taking your dog for a walk on a regular basis will allow it to see and meet unknown people along with their pets.
Training to perform tricks
Owing to its intelligence, the Prague Ratter can quickly acquire many impressive tricks. You may teach your dog to do the “shake hand” trick. When you introduce a fisted hand containing treats, your dog will automatically paw at your hand to get those treats. Once it continues to paw, say the command “Shake” and repeat it a few times. Your Prague Ratter will learn this new trick.
Feeding
You may feed your Prague Ratter one to two cups of quality dry food, twice per day.
