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

Compare the Shug and Rat Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Shug or a Rat? 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 Shug and Rat Terrier?

42.5 pounds ( 19 kg )

17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Shug and Rat Terrier

14.0 inches ( 35.6 cm )

16.0 inches ( 40.6 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Shugs or Rat Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Shug and Rat Terrier dogs?

Curious
Playful
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Watchful
Cheerful

Affectionate
Inquisitive
Loving
Alert
Lively

Shedding Level

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

Shugs shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

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

Watchdog Ability

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

Avoid Shugs as watchdogs - they're not effective.

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

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shug and Rat Terrier breeds?

German Shepherd, Pug

Terrier, Whippet, Greyhound, Beagle

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Shug and Rat Terrier?

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

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

Date of Birth

When were Shug and Rat Terrier breeds first developed?

Unknown

1800s

Litter Size

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

6-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Shug can have a litter of 6-10 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.

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.

Adaptability

Shug and Rat Terriers are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

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

The Shug breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

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

Major Concerns

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

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

Patellar Luxation
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

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

Allergies
Brachycephalic Syndrome

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

Occasional Tests

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

X-Rays
Respiratory Tests
Blood Tests
Full Body Physical Examination especially of the joints

Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Dental Examination
Physical Examination
Skin Evaluation

Energy

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

Shugs have low energy levels, ideal for a relaxed lifestyle.

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

Social Needs

Shug vs Rat Terrier social needs comparison

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

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

Exercise Needed

Shug vs Rat Terrier exercise need comparison.

Shugs need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Rat Terriers need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

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

Shugs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Rat Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Shugs or Rat Terriers bark more/less frequently?

Shug and Rat Terriers tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shug vs Rat Terrier?

Roaming urge

Shug vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

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

Walks, Walks dog parks, Cuddli, Playing fetch, Tracking, Hide and seek, Walking, Cuddling, Training, Water, Feeding, Tug-of-war, Walk

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

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

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

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

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

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Shugs vs Rat Terriers

Shug is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Rat Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Shug and Rat Terrier compare in sensitivity?

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

Affection Dependance

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

Apartment Friendly

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

The Shug is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

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

Child Friendly

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

The typical characteristics of Shug and Rat Terrier indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

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

Shugs and Rat Terriers 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: Shug or Rat Terrier?

Shugs and Rat Terriers 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 Shug or Rat Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

Shugs are highly friendly around strangers.

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Shug and Rat Terrier?

Shug and Rat Terrier 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 Shugs and Rat Terriers compare?

Shug and Rat Terrier dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.