The DUTCH RATTER

Other names: Dutch Smoushond, Hollandse Smoushond
Origin: Netherland 
Use: vermin control
Recognition: FCI, UKC



HISTORY:
Although this small breed was not efectively used for hunting - in the general perception of the term, it was of a real help when it came to eradicating rodents. The exact period when this breed was formed is, however, uncertain, because farmers were more focused on the dogs`utility than on setting a standard for the breed or, in fact, breeding for certain phisical features.

Of course, at the beginning, a couple of smaller terrier breeds were used in the process of creating the perfect hardy, low maintenance, effective vermin-controller, but the biggest influences can be traced back to the Schnautzer breeds.

Around the 1980s, the breed virtually was on the edge of being extinct, because breeders and kennels were focusing more on the more "presentable" breeds, so the small stable-guardian was of no real interest to them. Some breeders saw the danger and began reviving the breed, but so few purebred dogs survived the war, that introducing Border Terrier blood was absolutely crucial.

In 2001, the breed was oficially recognized by the  Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), and later on, by the UKC.

Up to this day, the Dutch Ratter still is a very rare terrier breed and almost unknown outside the Netherlands.

CHARACTERISTICS:
Dutch Ratters are small dogs (but not toy!), full of energy and loving. They are also strong willed and tend to have a mind of their own. Also, because of the purpose they were bred for (and still used at), they have a strong prey drive that has to be firmly controlled if there are other smaller animals in the house.

They do not shed much, but their rough coat needs occasional grooming.

COAT:
- waterproof;
- rough and shaggy
- colors: yellow (all shades)

SIZE:
- Height: 15.3 - 16.5 (39 - 42 cm)
- Weight: 17 - 22 lbs (8 - 10 kg)


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