6 Common Rat Terrier Behavior Problems

This post is not to discredit rat terriers but to give you an insight into what to expect when living with a rat terrier.

This post is aimed at providing you with some common rat terrier behavior problems you should know.

Some of the rat terrier behavior problems might be a problem for you but for some other people, it will be what they love.

Rat Terrier Behavior Problems

Here are some common rat terrier behavior problems you should know:

Rat terriers are high-energy dogs that require lots of mental stimulation activities and physical exercise.

If left alone for too long on a regular basis your rat terrier can develop separation anxiety and become very destructive.

Before you leave your rat terrier alone for a certain range of time, make sure you drain their energy, as this will help them relax.

Rat terrier separation anxiety can be triggered off as soon as owners want to leave home, you may experience lots of barking and whining.

Tips to handle rat terrier separation anxiety:

Socialization. Rat terriers need regular socialization in order to develop healthy social skills. This includes exposure to different people, animals, and environments.
Exercise. Rat terriers need plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy. A vigorous walk or run every day is ideal.

Training. Rat terriers need regular training to learn obedience and basic obedience commands. This will help to reduce the chances of them behaving aggressively or destructively when left alone.
Bonding. Rat terriers need a strong bond with their owners in order to prevent separation anxiety. This can be achieved through regular interaction, including but not limited to cuddling, playing together, and giving each other special attention.
Diet. A high-quality diet is essential for rat terriers to maintain a healthy weight and avoid developing obesity or other health problems.

Since they are hunting dogs, rat terriers are known for chasing things around.

At first, this might not be a problem but over time it can become a problem when your dog gets into trouble.

Tips

If your dog is constantly chasing things, try to redirect their attention by throwing a toy or offering them a food treat.
If your dog is constantly chasing things, try to train them using positive reinforcement.
When your dog is constantly chasing things, try to housetrain them.

If your dog is constantly chasing things, try to get them a chew toy to keep them occupied.
If your dog is constantly chasing things, try to get them a fence to keep them safe.

Rat Terriers are often stubborn and may not follow instructions.

As hunting dogs, rat terriers can prove to be stubborn during training this means you have to be patient with them.

Rat Terriers are often known for their stubbornness.

This is a trait that is not often admired in these dogs and may not be quite beneficial when it comes to training.

Rat Terriers often have a strong will and don’t easily give up on tasks or goals.

Rat Terriers may be destructive and may not listen when asked to stop.

Rat terriers may be destructive if left alone, as they may chew on furniture, electrical cords, and other objects.

It is important to have these dogs supervised when they are not in their cages or while they are playing.

Rat terriers also need regular exercise and should not be left in one spot for too long.

Rat Terriers may be difficult to house train and may have a lot of energy when outside.

Because of their intelligence and independent-willed personalities, you may find it difficult to housetrain a rat terrier.

Tips for house training a rat terrier

Rat Terriers may be prone to barking and may be difficult to train not to bark.

As hunting dogs rat terriers are prone to barking and this can become a behavior problem for both you, your neighbor, and your rat terrier.

There are a few ways to prevent the excessive barking behavior of rat terriers:

Make sure your rat terrier has plenty of chew toys to keep them busy and distracted from barking.
Properly socialize and train your rat terrier early in their lives so they don’t develop barking habits.
Clean up your rat terrier’s home environment regularly to remove any potential sources of stimulation that may lead to barking.

Use a noise-canceling device to help minimize the noise your rat terrier makes when they bark.
Consult with a qualified professional to help you train and manage your rat terrier’s barking behavior.