By Jags Goldie Last updated: 22nd October 2022

Rat-A-Pap

By

Jags Goldie
Last updated: 22nd October 2022

The Rat-A-Pap is a small-sized cross between two purebreds – the Papillon and the Rat Terrier. Like its parents, the Rat-A-Pap’s ears are large and erect, but can be tipped, giving it an intelligent and alert expression. Its body is stocky with a refined head, tapered muzzle, a black nose, a pair of slightly rounded eyes, and well-proportioned legs.

Rat-A-Pap Pictures

Quick Information

Other namesRat Terrier-Papillon Mix
CoatShort, silky
ColorWhite/cream, brown and white, black and white, apricot
Breed TypeCrossbreed
Group of BreedTerrier, Toy
Lifespan12-15 years
Weight8-15 lbs
Size/HeightSmall; about 12 inches
SheddingMinimal
TemperamentFriendly, playful, loyal, intelligent, brave
HypoallergenicNo
Size of LitterAbout 5 puppies
Good with ChildrenYes
BarkingOccasional
Country Originated inUSA
Competitive Registration/ Qualification InformationACHC, IDCR, DDKC

Video: Rat-A-Pap Puppy Playing

Temperament and Behavior

Charming, fun loving, wary, and smart, the Rat-A-Paps are highly spirited dogs that love romping around the yard as much as sitting in their owner’s lap.

Known to make good family pets, they show keenness of perception and understanding, intuitively responding to their owner’s moods.

Since they love to be praised and have a desire to please, they will often follow the members of their family around the house.

They get bored and may display destructive behavior when left alone. These dogs are always alert and wary of sudden changes in their environment such as unexpected noises, activities, or unfamiliar people.

Once properly trained, these dogs get along well with other pets. They are also patient with children, even those not belonging to their family.

Care

Exercise

Being an energetic breed, a Rat-A-Pap needs plenty of daily exercises. A long walk on the leash or 20-30 minutes of playing time will help stimulate its mind and body. Because of its Rat Terrier ancestry, it has the propensity for jumping and digging. Therefore, you can keep it active by providing a specific spot in the yard where it can dig up as much as it wants.

Grooming

Easy to groom, your Rat-A-Pap needs weekly brushing using a rubber mitt or a soft brush for the removal of its loose hair. Apart from brushing, trim its nails every month, and bathe it only as needed.

Health Problems

It can get any one of these health conditions – patellar luxation, hypoglycemia, demodectic mange, allergies, progressive retinal atrophy, and deformity or misalignment in jaw structure.

Training

Take advantage of your dog’s inherent curiosity and smartness by making the training sessions more fun and fast-paced. Mix up the activities and keep the training sessions short to keep your pet interested.

  • Begin early socialization (between 8-16 weeks) by exposing your pup to pleasant experiences involving strangers, kids, and other dogs. Take your Rat-A-Pap puppy to local dog parks, where you will find families with pets.
  • Teach the come and stay commands to keep your pup out of trouble. If your Rat-A-Pap chases a rodent or a bird or jumps over the fenced yard, these commands can be used in stopping such unwanted behavior. Make sure that you give your pet dog praises and rewards, every time it responds correctly.

Feeding

The required amount of dry food for a Rat-A-Pap is 1/2-1 cup a day.

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