Rat Terrier vs Swissneese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: RT or Swissneese?

Compare the Rat Terrier and Swissneese breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a RT or a Swissneese? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

RT, Decker Giant, Rat, Ratting Terrier, American Rat Terrier, Rattie

Weight

What is the average weight of Rat Terrier and Swissneese?

17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

115.0 pounds ( 52 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Rat Terrier and Swissneese

16.0 inches ( 40.6 cm )

29.5 inches ( 74.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Rat Terriers or Swissneeses hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Rat Terrier nor Swissneese are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Rat Terrier and Swissneese dogs?

Affectionate
Inquisitive
Loving
Alert
Lively

Protective
Alert
Confident
Affectionate
Patient
Devoted
Gentle
Strong
Willed
Selfish
Fearless
Good-natured
Confidence

Shedding Level

Do Rat Terriers shed more than Swissneeses, or which breed sheds more, Rat Terriers or Swissneeses?

Rat Terriers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Swissneeses are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Rat Terrier or Swissneese?

Rat Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Swissneeses make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Rat Terrier and Swissneese dog breeds?

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Rat Terrier and Swissneese breeds?

Terrier, Whippet, Greyhound, Beagle

Great Pyrenees, Greater Swiss Mountain

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Rat Terrier and Swissneese?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Rat Terrier and Swissneese breeds first developed?

1800s

2000s

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Rat Terrier and Swissneese?

15-18 puppies per pregnancy

A Rat Terrier can have a litter of 15-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

5-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Swissneese can have a litter of 5-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Rat Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Swissneeses are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Rat Terrier and Swissneese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Rat Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Swissneeses typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Rat Terrier and Swissneese breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia

Patellar Luxation
Gastric Torsion
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Rat Terrier and Swissneese?

Demodectic Mange
Epilepsy
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Color Dilution Alopecia
Teeth Issues

Entropion
Distichiasis
Cataracts

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Rat Terrier and Swissneese breeds?

Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Dental Examination
Physical Examination
Skin Evaluation

Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood and Urine Tests

Energy

How do the energy levels of Rat Terriers and Swissneeses compare?

Rat Terriers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Swissneeses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Rat Terrier vs Swissneese social needs comparison

Rat Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Swissneese has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Rat Terrier vs Swissneese exercise need comparison.

The Rat Terrier and Swissneese breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Rat Terrier or Swissneese?

Rat Terrier and Swissneese are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Rat Terriers or Swissneeses bark more/less frequently?

Rat Terriers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

The Swissneese is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Rat Terrier vs Swissneese?

Roaming urge

Rat Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Rat Terrier or Swissneese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Rat Terrier and Swissneese entertained?

Chase, Sniff, Bark, Trot, Fetch, Tug-of-war, Run, Playing, Chasing, Jumping, Running, Walking, Play, Walk, Play keep away

Frisbee, Swimming, Fetch, Digging, Dog Parks, Playing, Sleeping, Run, Swim, Catch treats, Play keep away, Play

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Rat Terriers or Swissneeses?

The Rat Terrier is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

The Swissneese has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Rat Terriers vs Swissneeses

Rat Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Swissneeses are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Rat Terrier and Swissneese compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Rat Terrier and Swissneese need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Rat Terrier vs Swissneese?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Rat Terrier or Swissneese?

Rat Terriers make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Swissneeses can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Rat Terriers or Swissneeses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Rat Terriers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Swissneeses are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Rat Terrier or Swissneese?

Cat Friendly

Do Rat Terrier or Swissneese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Rat Terriers and Swissneeses are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Rat Terrier or Swissneese?

Rat Terriers and Swissneeses are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Rat Terrier or Swissneese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Rat Terrier or Swissneese?

Rat Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Swissneeses are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Rat Terrier and Swissneese?

Rat Terrier and Swissneese have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Rat Terriers and Swissneeses compare?

Rat Terriers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Swissneeses are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.