Rat Terrier Pit Bull Mix (Rat-Bull) Hybrid Dog Breed Facts

This article is all about Rat-Bulls, the hybrid version of two popular dog breeds Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix. If you are a dog enthusiast, this article is for you.

Crossbreed dogs are amazing. The genetic combination they inherit from the parent breeds adds more uniqueness to their physical and personality traits.

Dog cross breeding has a long history associated with it. As time passed, this became popular, and nowadays, we can find heaps of hybrid dogs developed through crossbreeding. 

Rat-Bulls are the hybrid version of Rat Terriers and Pitbulls. The parent dogs have different yet unique personalities and appearances. As the hybrid version of Rat Terriers and Pitbulls, Rat-Bulls have their own looks and behavioral traits from both parents.

It is pretty normal that they could hold more characteristics from one parent over the other in some cases. However, if we consider everything in general, Rat-Bulls are small to medium-sized dogs with short and straight fur, sturdy bodies, and sharp features. Furthermore, they are strong-willed, energetic, loyal, and at the same time, affectionate canines.

If you have already heard about the parent breeds, you might feel it will not be easy to raise a Rat-Bull mainly by assessing their temperaments.

Your prediction is not entirely false, but do not forget that raising a dog is usually a challenging duty to fulfill despite their breed.

However, if you know the essentials, you can perfectly raise any dog. This article will help you get a thorough understanding of the Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix.

Fast Facts of Rat Terrier and Pitbull Mix (Rat-Bull)

Origin of Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix

To understand the origin of Rat-Bulls, it is worth knowing the history of their parent breeds. Both Rat Terriers and Pitbulls have a long and fascinating history related to their origins.

Rat Terriers were first developed in the early 1900s. Their oldest roots come from the United Kingdom, and they were initially bred as hunting dogs.

Rat Terriers during the early stages were very popular among farmers thanks to their exceptional skills in hunting rats and pests that ruin the harvest. However, eventually, Rat Terriers became ideal family dogs.

Pitbulls were bred in the 1800s. Although Pitbulls are popular as American Pitbulls, they also have their roots coming from the United Kingdom, just like Rat Terriers.

It is believed that they have close knits with English Bulldogs. Back in the day, Pitbulls were used for bull baiting. It is hard to imagine how a dog used for such a dangerous game could become a family pet.

Surprisingly it did happen over the years. One cannot precisely trace the roots of the Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix. Nevertheless, this hybrid dog version gained popularity in recent years.

The appearance of Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix

Rat Terriers have a fierce yet adorable appearance; conversely, Pitbulls are more likely to have a wilful and rugged appearance.

Their hybrid version, Rat-Bull, is typically a combination of these physiques. You cannot pinpoint the appearance of any mixed dog, including Rat-Bulls.

Since two different dogs create them, the appearances could vary from one to the other. However, below you can find some common physical characteristics of Rat-Bulls.

The size of a Rat-Bull could be either small or medium, with an average weight of 20-65 pounds and an average height of 14-21 inches.

Although they come as small or medium-sized dogs, they often have a strong body structure. Talking about their coat, Rat-Bulls have smooth, short, and straight fur.

Their coats may come in a range of colors, including white, black, tan, brown, lemon, and red. Rat-Bulls often have pricked or semi-pricked ears and sharp eyes. 

How big do Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix get?

Several factors determine the overall growth of a dog. Some of those factors are internal, for instance, genes and bloodline.

Other factors are external such as quality food and physical activities. While internal factors function as the key determinants, a healthy adult Rat-Bull could be small or medium-sized.

They will most likely have a weight of around 25-50 pounds and a height of 15-18 inches. But keep in your mind that these measures are relative.

The temperament of Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix

As mentioned earlier, it is not easy to pinpoint the looks of hybrid dogs and the same with their temperament. Sometimes they could have more similar personality traits to Rat Terriers or Pitbulls.

They could also have a fair blend of personality traits from both breeds. Generally, Rat-Bulls are tough, strong-willed, energetic, alert, and loyal dogs.

Rat-Bulls inherit some common personality traits from both sides of their parents, for example, their energy, intelligence, protectiveness, and loyalty.

Amidst all these powerful and tough temperaments, Rat-Bulls can also be witty and fun. Especially since they inherit it from Rat Terriers.

Though most of us feel that they are not, they are also affectionate dogs. The best thing about Rat-Bulls is that you can train them very well to help diminish their stubborn and willful behavior and enhance their socialization skills.

How long do Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix dogs live?

When deciding to adopt a dog, we usually pay attention to its lifespan. The excellent news is that Rat-Bulls have a relatively long life span as hybrid dogs.

Rat Terriers are a breed that has one of the highest life expectancy ranges among dogs. They typically live up to 15-18 years.

Pitbulls live up to 12-16 years which is also a long life span for a dog. Their hybrid version enjoys a life span of 12-15 years.

How much do Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix puppies cost?

There is no fixed price for Rat-Bull puppies because their price may differ for several reasons, including the lineage of the parents and the breeder’s reputation.

You can usually buy a Rat Terrier or a Pitbull puppy for around 500-1000 US Dollars. Still, they could also cost even 2000 US Dollars or more depending on mentioned reasons.

Therefore if you are willing to buy a Rat-Bull puppy, you usually have to spare around 500-700 US Dollars.

You could also find Rat-Bulls for relatively lower prices, but it is crucial to be mindful of the breeder and bloodline of parents when buying a hybrid dog.

Maintenance tips for Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix

The more you understand your dog’s maintenance, the easier it is to take care of them; this is why all dog parents should educate themselves regarding the upkeep of their pets.

Below are some of the essential things that you should know about maintenance and related factors of Rat-Bulls.

• Grooming and care 

Rat-Bulls are considered low-maintenance dogs. However, you have to follow an effective grooming schedule to keep them nice and clean.

Frequent bathing can make a Rat-Bull’s skin prone to shedding and dander forming. So it is sufficient to bathe your Rat-Bull once a month.

To maintain the coat texture and remove dead hair, you should brush their coat a couple of times a week.

When brushing, make sure to use a brush that suits their coat; a slicker brush would do the job. Brushing their teeth a few times a week will help maintain oral hygiene.

But be gentle when you brush their teeth. Also, practice this from a young age so they’ll eventually get used to it. You can also trim their nails and clean their ears when needed. 

• Dietary requirements

Following a proper diet routine will help your Rat-Bull to grow healthier. High-quality food is a must for Rat-Bulls primarily due to their inherited genes from Pitbulls.

A Rat-Bull usually needs two meals per day. The safest and most convenient option would be dog food, but to enhance the nutrient levels and add variety to the food, you can give them other food from time to time.

Protein is the most crucial factor in a Rat-Bull’s diet. They can meet their protein requirements through dog food, but you can also give them selected meats, veggies, and fruits.

Under the guidance of veterinarians, you can add omega-three fatty acids and other supplements to a Rat-Bull’s meals.

It is essential to avoid giving them junk food and leftovers because these dogs are vulnerable to obesity and food allergies. 

• General health

If you have a fair knowledge of the general health of a Rat-Bull, it will help you a lot to avoid critical health issues that could occur. Rat-Bulls could inherit health issues from both of their parents.

To elaborate, some common health concerns that you can see among Rat-Bulls are hip dysplasia, knee problems, allergies, primary lens luxation, heart problems, epilepsy, and cataract.

Some of these issues can be considerably mitigated through proper diet and regular exercise. However, some are unavoidable, yet if you spot them at the early stages, you can avoid the danger.

So be attentive if you notice frequent and sudden changes in their behavior. Also, do occasional veterinary checkups to ensure that the dog is in good health. 

Final thoughts about this Rat-Bull dog breed

If you read up to this point, I’m sure that now you have a good understanding of Rat-Bulls. In a nutshell, Rat Terrier and Pitbull mix is yet another unique mixed dog breed.

Perhaps they could be protective and wilful like a Pitbull or fun and energetic like a Rat Terrier. Even a combination of all of these characteristics.

Most importantly, if you raise them with love and proper care, Rat-Bulls will undoubtedly be lovable human companions. 

Thank you for reading this article! Stay tuned with Jack Russell Owner for more interesting posts about your favorite dog breed.