Rat-A-Pap
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 names | Rat Terrier-Papillon Mix |
Coat | Short, silky |
Color | White/cream, brown and white, black and white, apricot |
Breed Type | Crossbreed |
Group of Breed | Terrier, Toy |
Lifespan | 12-15 years |
Weight | 8-15 lbs |
Size/Height | Small; about 12 inches |
Shedding | Minimal |
Temperament | Friendly, playful, loyal, intelligent, brave |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Size of Litter | About 5 puppies |
Good with Children | Yes |
Barking | Occasional |
Country Originated in | USA |
Competitive Registration/ Qualification Information | ACHC, 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.