A Bluetick Rat Terrier is a crossbreed between a Rat Terrier and a Bluetick Coonhound. They are known for being cute, mellow, and inquisitive. These dogs are intelligent and can be easily trained by their human partners. However, they require a lot of attention and exercise from their owners.
Bluetick Rat Terriers have a weight range of 38 to 60 pounds and a height range of 19 to 23 inches. They have a relatively long lifespan of 13 to 17 years. In terms of appearance, they typically resemble lanky Hounds with Terrier-like characteristics. While they can have a white and black coat with tan markings like their Rat Terrier parent breed, they often have a “blue” molten or speckled coat, which is where their name comes from.
It’s important to note that the Bluetick Rat Terrier is a relatively new hybrid breed and is not recognized as a purebred by the American Kennel Club. As a result, their look and temperament are still evolving.
Below, we look at Bluetick Rat Terrier dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Bluetick Rat Terrier, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Bluetick Rat Terriers!
| Dog Breed | Bluetick Rat Terrier |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 38-60 lbs (average) |
| Height | 19-22″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Bluetick Coonhound, Rat Terrier |
| Date of Origin | Unknown |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 14-18 years |
| Price | $500 – $600 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Bluetick Coonhound is believed to have originated in the southern United States and is a descendant of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne and the English Foxhound. Originally classified as an English Coonhound, it was primarily used for hunting and tracking prey. In the 1940s, American breeders in Louisiana and Tennessee began selectively breeding the Bluetick Coonhound to be larger and more skilled at cold-trailing. While the United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1946, it was not until 2009 that the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Bluetick Coonhound.
The Rat Terrier, the other parent breed of the Bluetick Rat Terrier, is an American breed that is a mix of various Terriers, including Fox Terriers and other European Terriers. It was initially developed in the early 1900s to control pests on farms. To enhance its speed and sense of smell, it was later crossed with Beagles, Whippets, and Greyhounds. The Rat Terrier has a diverse genetic background, which contributes to its overall health. However, the use of chemical pesticides led to a decline in the breed’s popularity after the 1950s. Despite not being widely popular today, the Rat Terrier is cherished as a companion dog known for its robust health and affectionate nature.
The Bluetick Rat Terrier is a relatively new hybrid breed, and its exact origin date is unknown. While its personality and appearance are not entirely stable, it is generally described as relaxed, sweet, and curious. It is important to note that the Bluetick Rat Terrier is not recognized by the American Kennel Club. Therefore, if you are considering purchasing a puppy from a Bluetick Rat Terrier breeder, thorough research is essential. Additionally, this breed may be more commonly found in adoption and rescue centers.
🐕 Bluetick Rat Terrier Appearance
Typically, a Bluetick Rat Terrier resembles a lanky hound with some Terrier face characteristics. It has long legs and powerful hindquarters, and it is a medium-sized dog. They range in size from 19 to 23 inches tall and weigh 38 to 60 pounds on average. They have a coat that is similar to that of their parent breed, the Bluetick Coonhound, which is blue (mottled or speckled) or black and white with tan markings. It is often brief, thick, and gritty. Bluetick Rat Terriers feature round, often dark-brown eyes, triangle-shaped ears, a rectangular nose, and a pleasant yet alert demeanor. They also have strong, rounded paws with tough pads and a medium-length, tapering tail.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Blue, Black, White |
⚡ Fun Fact: Bluetick Rat Terrier dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Bluetick Rat Terrier
It is well known that the Bluetick Rat Terrier makes a loving and affectionate pet. They are family-oriented canines who like being around their loved ones at home. Along with cerebral and physical stimulation, they want for confirmation. As a result, they demand a lot of care and engagement from their owners in play. On the other hand, Bluetick Rat Terriers are wary of strangers, whether they be people or other animals, but if given the opportunity, they will rapidly warm up. They are a calm and kind breed in general. However, they do become quite aroused when tiny animals or kids awaken their hunting urge or when they are seduced by a tempting smell. They could thus be more appropriate for households with older kids. Remember that Bluetick Rat Terriers are descended from the most trainable Terrier breed; early training and socialization can aid in the development of a pet that is extremely well-adjusted. Also keep in mind that Bluetick Rat Terriers may bark and are quite sensitive to changes in habit or environment.
🤝 Are Bluetick Rat Terriers Friendly or Aggressive?
Bluetick Rat Terrier dogs are known for their friendly nature towards other pets, strangers, and children. They enjoy being around kids and are generally accepting of cats and other dogs. If you are looking to expand your furry family or participate in dog meetups, the Bluetick Rat Terrier can be a wonderful choice. Additionally, they are considered one of the best breeds for elderly individuals, providing companionship and a calm temperament.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Loving
- Alert
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Gentle
- Inquisitive
🐩 Bluetick Rat Terrier Care & Maintenance
Due to their modest shedding, Bluetick Rat Terriers occasionally need to be groomed. They are not hypoallergenic, thus allergic owners should avoid them. By giving their Bluetick Rat Terrier monthly baths and sometimes brushing their pet, owners may minimize shedding and keep their pet’s coat looking excellent. Because this breed is prone to ear infections, owners should pay close attention to checking for and removing wax accumulation each time they bathe their dogs. Bluetick Rat Terriers, like other breeds, should have their nails trimmed once or twice a month to avoid uncomfortable overgrowth or nail splitting.
Bluetick Rat Terrier dogs have a higher than average amount of shedding. This shedding is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and their breed. If you are not a fan of frequent vacuum cleaning, you may want to think twice about getting a puppy from the Bluetick Rat Terrier breed. Additionally, it is recommended to give them a bath every 4-6 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or around $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Bluetick Rat Terrier dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 9 miles per week, which equates to about 90 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Bluetick Rat Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
❤️🩹 Bluetick Rat Terrier Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Bluetick Rat Terrier Dog Breed can be:
- Usually Very Healthy
While minor concerns include:
- Ear Infections
- Patellar Luxation
- Hip Dysplasia
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
🤧 Important: Is Bluetick Rat Terrier hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Bluetick Rat Terrier.
⚡ Bluetick Rat Terrier Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Bluetick Rat Terrier a great choice for families with young children?
The Bluetick Rat Terrier is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to be sweet and lovable pets who love being around their family. They are home and people oriented dogs and crave affirmation, making them excellent companions for children.
Is the Bluetick Rat Terrier breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Bluetick Rat Terrier breed may not be considered a suitable breed for apartment living due to their requirement for a significant amount of exercise. They thrive in environments with ample space and opportunities for physical activity.
How much exercise does a Bluetick Rat Terrier require compared to other breeds?
Bluetick Rat Terriers require a significant amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. They have high energy levels and need regular physical activity to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Is the Bluetick Rat Terrier breed known for being good with other pets?
The Bluetick Rat Terrier breed can be good with other pets, especially if they are properly socialized from a young age. However, their hunting instinct may be triggered by small animals, so caution should be exercised when introducing them to other pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bluetick Rat Terrier?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bluetick Rat Terrier include the Beagle, Boston Terrier, and French Bulldog. These breeds require less exercise and grooming compared to the Bluetick Rat Terrier.
What are the common health issues that Bluetick Rat Terriers are prone to?
Bluetick Rat Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help maintain their overall health.
Are Bluetick Rat Terriers known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Bluetick Rat Terriers are descendants of the Rat Terrier breed, which is one of the most trainable Terrier breeds. They are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds.
Are Bluetick Rat Terriers more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Bluetick Rat Terriers can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. Like many dogs, they thrive on human companionship and may experience anxiety when left alone for long periods.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Bluetick Rat Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Bluetick Rat Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Poodle. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Bluetick Rat Terrier are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller sizes of dogs similar to the Bluetick Rat Terrier, such as the Miniature Pinscher, Jack Russell Terrier, and Dachshund, may be more suitable.
Is the Bluetick Rat Terrier breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Bluetick Rat Terrier breed is known to be good with children, but their suitability for children with special needs may vary. It is important to assess the individual dog’s temperament and consult with professionals who can provide guidance on matching the right dog breed with specific needs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Bluetick Rat Terrier?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Bluetick Rat Terrier are relatively low compared to some other breeds. They have short coats that require occasional brushing to maintain their appearance and minimize shedding. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are also important parts of their grooming routine.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Bluetick Rat Terrier dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
