The Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix is a unique mixed breed dog that is quite rare to find. As its name suggests, the Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix is a cross between a purebred Rat Terrier and a purebred Rottweiler.
This hybrid dog has a unique personality and plenty of love to offer. This is a wonderful dog to own since he is loyal, loving and sociable.
He can get along well with children, especially if socialized early. As an uncommon mixed breed dog, little is known about it. However, you can expect an all-rounder dog, especially when trained and socialized properly.
As with any mixed breed dog, however, any trait is hard to predict since every puppy may inherit different characteristics from both or either of its parent dogs.
Read on for everything you need to know about the Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix, including its history, appearance, temperament, grooming and more.
Table of Contents
Some Quick Facts About the Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix
| Breed Type: | Crossbreed/Mixed Breed |
| Size: | Medium-sized dog |
| Other Names: | Dachsweiler, Rottshund, Rottweiler Doxie Mix, Rottweiler Weiner Dog Mix |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes, and have guard dog qualities |
| Average Weight: | 20 to 65 Pounds |
| Average Height: | 18 to 23 Inches |
| Lifespan: | 12 to 14 years |
| Ideal for: | Spacious homes, Families with active children |
| Coat: | Short to Medium-Length Double Coat |
| Coat colors: | Black and tan, these dogs may also spot large white patches on their neck and chest |
| Suitable for first time owners: | Yes |
| Trainability: | Moderate difficulty |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
| Shedding: | Shedding will be moderate and seasonal |
| Grooming Needs: | Brushing should be done two or three times per week |
| Energy Levels: | Quite high |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise every day is required |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Low, these pups thrive on human companionship |
| Feeding and Diet: | 2 to 3 cups of high quality dog food, broken up into two to three meals |
| Possible Health Issues: | Hip and elbow dysplasia, Eye problems, Patella luxation, Allergies, Hypothyroidism |
| Temperament: | Alert, Intelligent, loyal, protective, stubborn, independent |
| Cat Friendly: | They have a strong prey drive and can chase and kill cats, early socialization is required |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes, only with proper socialization |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, especially if they are trained and socialized early in their life |
| Family Friendly: | Yes |
| Barking Tendencies: | Will most likely only bark if there’s a genuine reason. |
| Price: | About $500 or even more |
What is a Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix?
As discussed above, the Rat Terrier and Rottweiler Mix is a cross between a Rottweiler dog and a Rat Terrier.
A combination of the characteristics of each parent breed should give us a good idea about the specific traits that we can expect in the mix.
As such, a Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix should be a medium sized dog with lots of energy. Loving and affectionate, this hybrid dog tends to be wary of strangers and has a strong prey drive. These dogs do well in homes with kids and other dogs. They are suitable for people who can exercise them regularly and give them a lot of attention.
We’ll take a look at the histories and characteristics of each parent breed to better understand what your mixed breed dog might look and behave like. The history and original role of a breed has long-lasting effects on a dog’s appearance and temperament.
History of the Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix
Hybrids like the Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix are often mysterious. Mixed breed dogs are quite new in the canine world, and this particular crossbreed was most likely developed within the last 10 to 20 years.
It most likely originated in the United States, where the on-going designer dog craze is at its peak.
To better understand where the Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix comes from, let’s take a brief look at each parent breed.
The Rat Terrier
Also referred to as the Rattie, Ratting Terrier, Decker Giant, or the American Rat Terrier, this dog breed was bred in America and was commonly used on farms in the 1920s and 1930s.
It is considered to be an American dog breed because it descended from Bull Terriers, Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers and English White Terriers, among others. Italian Greyhounds and Whippets were later added to increase speed.
Their population reduced drastically and in the 1950s, they were so few that breeders had to step in to increase their numbers.
Standard or miniature, the Rat Terrier is recognized by the AKC and is found today as a companion dog.
The Rottweiler
It is widely believed that the Rottie or the Rottweiler descended from the ancient Roman cattle dogs. In 74 AD, these dogs were an integral part of the Roman Empire at a German town called ‘das Rote Wil” or ‘Rottweil’.
Rottweilers were commonly used as cattle dogs and in bear hunting during the middle ages.
In the nineteenth century, the cattle were transported by rail and the demand for the breed reduced. When the First World War broke out, the demand for military and police dogs increased considerably. Rotties played a huge role in both the first and the Second World War.
In 1921, several Rottweiler clubs in Germany met to form the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Club (ADRK). The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1931.
The General Appearance of the Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix
So what does a full grown Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix look like?
As a mixed breed dog, Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix dogs can inherit the physical characteristics of both or either parent.
However, not all puppies inherit half of their traits from one of the parents and half from the other.
In the case of the Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix, a puppy can look more like a Rat Terrier than a Rottie Rat Terrier Mix, or more like a Rottweiler.
The Rottweiler is one of the most distinguishable dog breeds thanks to their springy gait and a big square shaped head.
Rotties have wide set eyes. They have medium sized ears that are triangular in shape. Their body is a bit longer than they are tall and their tail is typically docked. They have strong legs, powerful hindquarters and shoulders and a broad chest.
Rat Terriers, on the other hand, have a compact body and cute looks that draw from many pedigrees. That’s why they were once regarded as a type of dog rather than a unique breed.
Rattie Terriers are also a bit longer than they are tall with sturdy and compact bodies, balanced hindquarters and shoulders, as well as a deep chest.
Therefore, your Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix should be a compact dog with strong legs and a compact body. They also inherit the Rottweiler’s springy gait. Their head should be large with a longer muzzle and a narrower face than the Rottweiler’s. They also have a deep chest that should be broader than a purebred Rat Terrier’s.
But how big does a Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix get?
Let’s find out below:
Size, Height and Weight
Rotties measure around 23 to 27 inches at the shoulders and weigh anywhere between 80 and 130 pounds at maturity.
On the other hand, Rat Terriers come in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy.
Standards are about 16-19 inches tall and typically weigh around 20 to 40 pounds.
Miniatures are less than 15 inches tall and normally weigh around 10 to 20 pounds.
Toy Ratties are less than a foot in height and weigh in at 5 to 10 pounds. These are not officially recognized by the AKC.
Taking these figures into consideration, your full grown Rottie Rat Terrier Mix will probably be around 18 to 23 inches tall. He should weigh around 20 to 65 pounds. Crossing a Rottweiler with a toy or miniature will probably increase the chances of producing a much smaller pup.
Colors
A Rottie is normally tan and black, but some people report rare colors like black, white and red. Their eyes should be brown in color.
Rat Terriers are typically white in color, with patches of different sizes. They can be piebald or pied. A Rattie can also be completely white (piebald) with some mottling or ticking.
Their eyes can be hazel to brown, depending on the base color of their coat. It’s also possible to see blue-eyed puppies. These have the dilution gene and are usually blue in color. Rotties have numerous base colors, ranging from cream to sable. Possible shades include black, red, fawn, lemon, blue, chocolate, apricot and sable.
A Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix should be black and tan. However, these dogs may also spot large white patches on their neck and chest. Their eyes should be brown in color. The mix has several other variations in the tan shading, including cream, light brown, beige, rust, chocolate and mahogany.
Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix Temperament & Personality
The Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix tends to be alert, intelligent and lively. These dogs are also loyal and affectionate. Some are very friendly like their Rat Terrier parent while others are quite reserved and wary of strangers.
Due to their loyalty and protective nature, Rat Terrier Rottweiler mixes also make great watchdogs and have guard dog qualities.
Are They Good Family Dogs?
Yes! The Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix can be a good choice for families. They get along well with children and other canines.
Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mixes are an awesome choice for active individuals and families looking for a pet that has plenty of energy run and spend time with.
While Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mixes do well with other dogs, they have a strong prey drive and can chase and kill cats, rabbits and other small household pets.
Therefore, you should socialize them early with cats and other small animals and never leave them together unsupervised.
Training
The Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix is an intelligent dog, but he can also be independent and stubborn. Therefore, you should start housetraining them immediately. Moreover, they should be socialized with people and other animals.
Positive reinforcement training is normally recommended, but your focus should be on repetition and confidence. Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mixes need a dedicated and confident trainer and will not obey you if you use cruel training methods.
Hands-on training is important for these dogs, but obedience classes will also do wonders. They are very intelligent and can master virtually everything you teach them.
Grooming
Both the Rottweiler and Rat Terrier are low maintenance dogs, so grooming your Rottie Rat Terrier Mix should be not be a difficult task.
Rotties have a double coat, which is shorter on the face and legs. On the other hand, Ratties have short fur. The Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix will most likely have short or medium fur. Shedding will be moderate and seasonal.
Their fur should protect them from harsh weather conditions. Brushing should only be done once to thrice per week to eradicate any dead or loose hairs.
Bathing should only be done once every 8 to 10 weeks, but you can use deodorizing wipes for dogs to help keep them clean at all times.
Make sure to trim their nails as necessary and check their ears regularly.
Feeding and Diet
Rottie Rat terriers have a lot of energy and will require all the essential nutrients to help keep them strong and healthy. A high-protein kibble is generally recommended. Animal-based protein sources, like salmon, lamp or beef are recommended.
If buying commercial dog foods, make sure it is high quality dog food whose primary ingredient is meat. The food must not contain any low-quality preservatives or flavors.
Also, add probiotics and other supplements to his regular diet to help keep their gut healthy.
Probiotics are necessary to help keep their gut healthy while wild Alaskan salmon oil is ideal for their coat and skin. Also, give them fresh water to prevent dehydration.
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Rottweiler Rat Terrier Lifespan
Generally speaking, you can expect your healthy, properly cared for Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix to live for around 12 to 14 years.
Mixed breed dogs like the Rat Terrier Rottie Mix tend to live a bit longer, so your new puppy has a good chance of living with you for a long time to come.
Rottweiler Rat Terrier Health Issues
Despite their energy, strength and cute looks, all dog breeds run the risk of developing a number of health issues. A Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix is no exception, since both the Rottie and the Rat Terrier parents are known for their particular health concerns.
Some of the health problems you should watch out for include:
– Hip and elbow dysplasia
– Eye problems
– Patella luxation
– Allergies
– Hypothyroidism
Some of these health conditions can be treated or even prevented if you take proper care of your dog and keep a close eye on him. You can also schedule your pet for a DNA test for genetic conditions and follow your vet’s advice.
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How Much Does A Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix Cost?
Purebred Rottweilers are very popular dogs, so you can expect them to be quite expensive. Purebred Rat terriers are also quite popular, which can also influence the price of a Rat terrier Rottweiler Mix puppy.
However, the Rat Terrier Rottie Mix is a mixed breed, so its price is much lower than that of its purebred parents. Although designer dogs are becoming more and more popular, the demand for Rottie Rat Terrier Mixes Is still quite low.
With this in mind, you can expect to pay about $500 or even more for a puppy. Some puppies tend to be more expensive since reputable breeders for these dogs are rare.
A good alternative is to visit a rescue center or animal shelter to adopt an older dog. The cost of rescuing any kind of dog is less than going through a breeder.
When considering a Rottweiler Rat Terrier Mix for adoption, it’s extremely important to learn as much as you can about the reasons why that particular pup ended up in an animal shelter or rescue center.
Apart from the cost of buying a puppy, you want to factor in food costs, vet fees and pet products like the MidWest Folding Crate for Intermediate dogs and the Furhaven Orthopedic dog bed from reputable retailers like Amazon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Rottweiler Rat Terriers good family dogs?
Yes! Well-bed, well-trained and socialized Rottweiler rat terriers are gentle , loving and affectionate towards their families. They are intelligent and easy to train , which makes them great companions. They also get along with children and other dogs. However, you need to socialize them early to ensure a well-behaved pooch.
Are Rottweiler Rat Terrier dogs aggressive?
No! Generally speaking, Rottweiler Rat Terrier dogs are not aggressive. However, aggression may be directed at unfamiliar animals and strangers if the pups are not well socialized from an early age.
Are Rottweiler Rat Terrier dogs dangerous?
Despite the fact that Rottweilers are said to be among the most dangerous dog breeds, this mix is loyal, friendly and loving towards their owners and family.
Do Rottweiler Rat Terriers bark a lot?
Most Ratties are quite vocal, but Rotties rarely bark, so your mix will most likely only bark if there’s a genuine reason.
Are Rat Terrier Rottweiler dogs high maintenance?
Both the Rottweiler and The Rat Terrier are low maintained dogs, so grooming your new mix breed dog should be easy.
Do rat terrier rottweilers like to cuddle?
Yes! Rat Terrier Rottweiler dogs like to cuddle. However, not all do. Some of these dogs love to cuddle while others do not. A well-bred and healthy Rottweiler rat terrier mix will probably enjoy some cuddle time!
Can Rat Terrier rotweilers be left alone?
No. Rat Terrier Rotweilers are intelligent and active dogs that thrive on human companionship. If they are left alone for extended periods of time they can do some damage to your home.
If you’re considering getting a rat terrier Rottweiler mix, make sure you can dedicate time to exercise home and give the companionship he requires to remain happy and healthy.
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Conclusion
The Rat Terrier Rottweiler Mix may be an uncommon mixed breed dog, but he has the potential to develop into a wonderful companion.
They are loyal to their families and will always act as the family watchdog. Although they are energetic, they are very affectionate and love being around their families.
If you have the time, energy and space for an energetic medium-sized pup, the Rat Terrier Rottweiler mix can be a great companion for you!
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