The Rat Terrier is an American breed descended from the terriers brought over by English miners and other working class immigrants. These terriers probably included crosses between the Smooth Fox Terrier, the Manchester Terrier and the now extinct white English Terrier. These dogs were used as ratters, and gambling on their prowess in killing rats was a favorite hobby of their owners. Some of these dogs were crossed with Whippets or Italian Greyhounds (for speed) and Beagles (for hunting ability). Eventually, these tough little terriers evolved into today's Rat Terrier. The breed was popularized by President Teddy Roosevelt, who frequently hunted with his Rat Terriers. Many are still used as ratters and squirrel hunters, particularly in the South, where they are sometimes known as "Feists." The hairless variety appeared for the first time in a litter in 1972.

The Rat Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club on January 1, 1999.

During the 19th century two breeds of terriers stood out above the rest: One was the rough and rugged, black and tan terrier. This terrier was bred to the smoother boned and finer coated Italian Greyhound and became the Manchester Terrier. At this time, it was also known as ``the Gentlemen's Terrier." The other notable terrier breed was the original smooth coated, old ``tymey", deep barrel chested fox terrier. Both terriers became the choice and fancy of many English men. Eventually, these two terriers crystallized into one distinct breed which is now known as the American Rat Terrier.

You might have known that a Rat Terrier was in a movie with Shirley Temple called The Little Colonel. Rat Terriers have been fetured more recently in the Little Ceasers commericals, Six Flag Theme Parks, Dreyer's Ice Creams, 1-800-COLLECT, PetsMart, and Kibbles N' Bits. This does show that Rat Terriers have a knack when it comes to acting.

A Rat Terrier named Billy was credited for killing 2,501 rats in seven hours.

Teddy Roosevelt had a famous rat terrier named Skip. Teddy commented these dogs very much saying they were the best and sweetest.