Rat Terrier And Whippet Mix (Rat-Whip) - Hybrid Dog Breed Info

Rat Terrier Whippet Mix (Rat-Whip) – Hybrid Dog Breed Info

There are thousands of mixed-dog breeds out there. Out of them, Rat-Whip is a beautifully designed hybrid dog breed resulting in Rat Terrier and Whippet mix. 

According to the American Kennel Club, there are 195 recognized dog breeds, but the Federation Cynologique Internationale officially recognizes 360 dog breeds. Despite the originally recognized breeds, there could be even more if we observe both purebred and cross-breed dogs.

So in today’s article, we will discuss the Rat Terriers and Whippet mix, AKA Rat-Whips. This might not be the most familiar hybrid dog breed you have heard of, but it certainly is an interesting breed to get to know.

Rat Terrier and Whippet mix, simply known as Rat-Whip, is a super charismatic dog with a unique physique.

If we compare the parent breeds, you may find apparent differences in their looks and personalities, making it a little hard to predict what a Rat-Whip would look like and what sort of temperament they would get.

However, this hybrid breed is generally identified as friendly, affectionate, and loyal. Rat-Whips are eager to please their humans, so they are ideal for anyone who would like to have an adorable, fun-loving, and friendly companion. 

There are heaps of things that one can explore regarding hybrid dogs. Through this article, you can find the essential details, including the origin, appearance, temperament, and maintenance of the Rat Terrier and Whippet mix. Read through to find out all.

Fast Facts : Rat Terrier And Whippet Mix (Rat-Whip)

Average height 10 – 22 inches 
Average weight 10 – 30 pounds
Lifespan 12 – 16 years 
Suitable for Active seniors,
Singles or Couples,
Families with kids
Temperament Friendly, Loyal,
Affectionate, Gentle,
Active, Lovely
Good for families? Yes
Other nicknames Rat-Whip
Complied by Jack Russell Owner

Origin of Whippet and Rat Terrier mix

Let’s get started understanding the origin of this mixed breed. If you look into the history of Rat-Whips, you might not find a lot of information regarding it, and this is a common issue concerning the origin of many hybrid dog breeds.

Nonetheless, by studying the history of their parent breeds, we can understand the origin of their hybrid version.

Rat Terrier is a dog breed coming from the United States. They were initially bred for hunting purposes in the early 1900s. Over the years, they became demanding family pets around the world.

Whippet is a breed developed in England. While some believe that Whippets were bread in the latter part of the 1800s, others believe that their history can be traced way further. In the early stages, Whippets were recognized as hunting and race dogs.

Both parent dogs have long and fascinating histories. There is no precise information to figure out when or why their hybrid version was created.

However, it is evident that these two breeds were mixed to produce unique and dynamic dogs. In recent years, this cross breed has gained fair popularity. 

The appearance of Rat Terrier and Whippet mix

The appearance of Rat Terrier and Whippet mix

Rat-Whip is usually a small-sized dog, but they are somewhat bigger than an average Rat Terrier; because Whippets have long and slender legs. This hybrid dog breed has a lean yet muscular body structure.

They typically weigh around 10-30 pounds and have a height of about 10-22 inches. They get short length coats. The coat colors of parent breeds vary, so the hybrid version gets its color depending on the parents’ genes.

In most cases, the coat includes black, cream, white, and fawn colors. They may have markings or patches on their coat, a characteristic they mainly get from Whippets. Rat-Whips get somewhat long faces and erect or semi-erect ears.

How big do Rat Terrier and Whippet mix get?

The size of the Rat Terrier and Whippet mix vary from small to medium. Rat Terriers are small dogs, whereas Whippets are medium-sized dogs.

Their hybrid version grows to 10-30 pounds in weight and 10-22 inches in height. These measures may slightly change based on gender and genes.

While such internal factors primarily decide the growth of a Rat-Whip, external factors such as healthy food and physical activities also impact their growth. 

The temperament of Rat Whip mix

One of the most exciting things about hybrid dogs is their personalities. When it comes to this particular mixed breed, the combination of Rat Terrier and Whippet temperaments creates a canine with a lively personality.

Rat-Whips are cheerful dogs that prefer showing love and affection toward their family. Both parent dogs are well known for their intense energy levels; hence you do not have to doubt the energy of their hybrid version.

These dogs also have good intelligence levels, making them easy to train. There are instances where they might act a little spunky and stubborn on top of it, they also inherit prey drive in their genes, but these can be addressed through proper training.

Rat-Whips quickly get along with humans; still, you have to put some effort into early socialization. 

How long do Rat Terrier and Whippet mix dogs live?

Although a dog’s average life span is 10-12 years, some can live less or longer than that. Rat Terriers typically enjoy an approximate life span of 14-18 years.

On the other hand, Whippets live up to 12-15 years. Thanks to parents’ long life spans, Rat-Whips also enjoy a relatively long life span.

Accordingly, a healthy Rat Terrier and Whippet mix dog would enjoy a life span of 12-16 years.

How long do Rat Terrier and Whippet mix dogs live?

How much do Rat Whippet mix puppies cost?

The price ranges of puppies vary based on different reasons. The most crucial factors that affect a dog’s price are the parents’ bloodline and the breeder’s reputation. Purebred Rat Terriers and Whippets usually cost around 700-1500 US Dollars.

However, the price can go above the average range due to earlier mentioned reasons. You will have to spend around 1000 US Dollars for a healthy Rat-Whip puppy.

Despite the price, getting Rat-Whip puppies from a reputed and certified breeder is always advisable. It reassures the health and quality of the puppies. 

Maintenance tips for Whippet and Rat Terrier mix

Rat Terrier and Whippet mix is a hybrid dog with minimal maintenance requirements. Still, to ensure that your beloved pet is happy and healthy, you must pay attention to their upkeep.

Let’s understand some essential things you should know regarding the care of this hybrid dog. 

  • Stick to a grooming routine 

Following a consistent grooming routine is mandatory for any dog, whether high or low maintenance. As mentioned above, Rat-Whips do not require complex grooming needs.

Still, it is important to be consistent with their grooming routine. These dogs do not need baths too often, and when you bathe them use a mild dog shampoo as their skin pH level is very different from humans.

To keep their coat healthy and clean, you must brush them at least once a week. You can also occasionally clean their ears and trim their nails. 

  • Feed them good food

These dogs require a regular diet rich in nutrients for their growth and health. If you give them dog food, you can give them 1, and a ½ or 2 cups split into two meals per day.

To enhance the quality of the food, you can also add raw and natural food to their diet. Proteins play a vital role in a Rat-Whip’s meal, which can be provided through dog food and raw meats such as chicken and turkey.

Be careful when adding grains to their meals, as they may find it difficult to digest grains. Selected meats, veggies, and fruits not only benefit their health but also increase their appetite.

However, make sure not to overfeed them as it has negative consequences. 

  • Make them exercise 

Exercises take a vital role in a Rat-Whip’s day-to-day life. These dogs are naturally active and energetic; therefore, you will not find it hard to engage them in exercises.

Moreover, to reduce their excess energy, they must exercise daily. It is usually recommended to make them exercise for an hour every day.

You can grab them for a walk, jog with them, or fetch them to help get their regular exercise needs. 

  • Be aware of their general health

Hybrid dogs are vulnerable to certain health complexities due to their genetic formation. As the owner, if you are cautious enough about these medical conditions, you can spot them at early stages and reduce the risk factor to a great extent.

Some health issues that you may find commonly among this hybrid breed are joint dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye disorders. 

Final thoughts about the Rat-Whip breed

This article provided a comprehensive guide on the Rat Terrier and Whippet mix. Hybrid dogs result from cross-breeding two separate pure breed dogs, and they become dogs with intriguing personalities and appearances.

Rat Terrier and Whippet mix is also a unique hybrid dog that makes great family friends. This hybrid dog breed is friendly, active, gentle, loving, and generally good with anyone, including children and seniors.

They are very easy to maintain and suitable for both experienced and first-time dog owners. There are plenty of reasons for you to fall in love with a Rat-Whip.

Stay tuned with Jack Russell Owner for more interesting posts. Cheers!!

Author

  • Lisa Watson

    Lisa W. is a practicing certified veterinarian (BVetMed Hons in Veterinary Medicine) who graduated from Royal Veterinary College, UK. One of her research fields is mixed-dog breeds and their temperament, behavioral issues, and genetic health concerns. Also, she gathers data about purebred dog breeds and their origin, lifespan, and genetic conditions. Lisa is a loving dog parent who is keen to share her expertise with other fellow dog parents.

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