#prague ratter

[homebrewstims]

Krysařík Guliver - tricks and training + Happy life of Prague Ratters

Though this isn't my footage, I took the time to make the gifs. See my terms of use BEFORE you reupload!

Wikipedia - Pražský Krysařík:

The Pražský Krysařík (Prague Ratter) is a small breed of dog from the Czech Republic that is rarely seen outside its country of origin. It is the smallest breed in the world by [height].

Best known for its active and lively nature, the Pražský Krysařík is a spunky breed that is full of original character. [They] thrive on strong and dependable relationships with humans, love to receive affection, and play the role of lap dog during down time. This breed is highly intelligent and generally responds well to basic training and commands. As a pet, the Pražský Krysařík is obedient, loyal, loving, and very affectionate. [It] adapts well to full-time indoor and apartment living, yet still enjoys spending time outdoors... They are also known to be a very quiet dog, unlike many other small dogs who tend to be very "yappy".

Due to its need for human attention and eagerness to please and impress* its owner, the Pražský Krysařík generally responds well to basic training and commands. [It can learn] many impressive tricks and tasks. Many owners claim that these dogs can easily be taught to use a litter box, thus eliminating the need for constant trips outdoors.

*(this was SUUUPER evident just from the footage, before I even read about the breed. like within 30 seconds of the first video; you can see the adoration, how fixed this dog is on the owner, how much it savors her attention)

Establishing immediate trust and respect is key to successfully training the Pražský Krysařík. These dogs can be somewhat sensitive to criticism and respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training.

Pražský Krysařík might be small, but is nevertheless an easy dog to train as long as it is treated consistently. It can be trained for agility, freestyle, obedience, tracking etc.

The sense of smell and hearing is highly developed, and Pražský Krysařík is still a great rat hunter, just as its original purpose was. They have a high prey drive and will readily go after squirrels, rats, and mice.

Czech dog breeders claim that krysaříks (ratters) are one of the oldest Czech breeds. In the era [without] cats in Europe, tiny Pražský Krysaříks, along with other rat-catchers, served to protect the property of the royal owners from rodents. Legends say that in the royal houses krysaříks were also obliged to protect the owners from poisoners: during meals they were allowed to walk on tables and taste food and drinks. With the decline of the Czech state, krysaříks lost their exclusive belonging to the noble houses. They could be seen in peasant and bourgeois dwellings and outbuildings. They were used in rat battles popular in Europe. And over time they took their deserved place in the salons of ladies, as pets and companions.

The popularity of the Pražský Krysařík started to decline in the 19th century when the Miniature Pinscher became more fashionable. The breed went through a renaissance in the 1980s as Czechs and Slovaks started to breed them again. The first stage of the revival of the breed and the compilation of stud books began at the end of the 19th century... Two World Wars and the period of the communist regime in Czechoslovakia nullified the results of their efforts, [and] the stud books were lost.

Modern Pražský Krysaříks trace their history since the 70s of the XX century-- the key role in the revival of the breed was played by the canine scientists Jan Findejs, Rudolf Šiler, (1909-1997). In 1980, the first Pražský Krysařík was registered in the studbook.

Until the end of the 20th century, the breed existed and developed exclusively within the borders of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. [Now, in the present decade], several hundred Pražský Krysaříks live outside the Czech Republic. Breed clubs have been established in several countries. In addition to the countries of Western Europe and Scandinavia, Pražský Krysaříks live in Russia, USA and Japan. There is a small number of krysaříks in Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Italy.

In 2019, it became an FCI acknowledged breed. There are only about 6,000 Pražský Krysaříks registered in the world and they usually only have 1-3 puppies per year. They are nevertheless presented at shows in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Scandinavia.

It is believed that the Pražský Krysařík is one of [few] breeds that do[es] not have significant health problems.

(So what I'm reading here is...... they're perfect???)

[guiltyidealist]

Little guy(s) from an indie Czech game stimboard

x x x x x x x x x Banner

[niacanialla]

Fidel is back at my parents'. He continues to be very small.

[yugsly]

Is dear Bug a miniature pinscher or a chihuaha? Adorable regardless

The shelter said Just Chihuahua but we're not so sure that's the case. He was found on the streets in Mexico- the particular shelter partners with USA shelters to give "excess dogs" homes so they don't have to put them down.

He looks The Most like a Prague Ratter, and also mini pinscher... the ears and body structure is the most telling. The only Chihuahua feature he has is the eyes I think, his body doesn't look like a Chihuahua at all!

Complimentary Bug pics.

[laguera25]

This whole time, I thought Minni Landers was a Chihuahua, but TIL, she's a Prague ratter. And here I thought Paul was making it up.

[kopawz]

howdy! I adopted a tiny, unmarked critter found roaming the desert and now, at ~16 months, our best guesses for her are Norfolk/Yorkshire/general Terrier.

excited family gifted us Embark breed testing for the holiday (for Fun only, she's spayed and would have vet testing like OFA/PENNHIP for genetic health problems).

while awaiting results, do you have any cool Terrier or Ratter Facts? it's been such a joy working with her and seeing her absurd natural hunting skills (not with small animals/small animal scents).

BROOOO you found such a little guy. i hope she's doing ok with you gamers. ok, i will tell you about the prague ratter. because i like those ratters in particular. very little guys.

the prague ratter... they come from the prague czech republic!

they look alot like a chihuahua or a miniature pinscher, but no! it's a prague ratter. here's a little comparison. many prague ratters are a bit smaller than chihuahuas!

back in middle ages (1300's), everybody loved these little dudes, as they kind of had a historically known rat problem.

their ears are kinda round, and they're very low to the ground; perfect for rat hunting! gotta resemble your prey to better catch it, i suppose??

[amnashareefsworld]

Tips to Take Care of Small Dog Breeds in India

Toy, miniature and small breeds are all adorable varieties of the mini canine. Some of them are sturdy and strong, such as West Highland White Terriers, French Bulldogs and Jack Russell Terriers. Others like Chihuahuas, Prague Ratters and Italian Greyhounds can be quite delicate and sensitive and naturally need careful treatment and gentle handling. Some have quite prominent features like the round-headed Japanese Chin, the popular long-backed Dachshund and the hairless Chinese Crested.

Irrespective of the shape and size of your dog, make sure to consider their needs when it comes to things like his temperature requirements, the suitable harness, leash or collar, dog food quantities and the suitable shape and size of the bed.

Here are a few things that you should take into account to care for small dog breeds in India.

Food Requirements: Less Is More

The calorie needs of small breeds differ from those of large dogs. As their surface area per kilogram is less than that of large breeds, they use more energy for regular body functions. They even expend more energy to just get around. A Golden Retriever may need 100 steps while a Lhasa Apso may require 400 steps to walk to the end of your block.

Small dog breeds in India may require more calories per kilogram every day than large breeds. They can't reserve energy the way large breeds can. Therefore, they need calorie-dense meals more often. It's a good idea to feed mini breeds small meals frequently throughout the day so that it can compensate for their rapacious need for energy and their small stomach capacity.

Nevertheless, you should avoid overfeeding your dog since that can lead to obesity. Consider buying dog food specifically made for small breeds and choose food quantities based on the instructions given on the back of the dog food. Alternatively, you can speak to the vet for advice tailored to the individual requirements of your little furry friend.

Proper Training to Overcome Small Dog Syndrome

Biting, snarling, running away when called and pulling on the leash are things that dogs across all breeds do. But owners often forgive the naughty or harmful behaviour of small breeds although larger breed counterparts can't get away with the same. This is called "small dog syndrome". Small dogs often use these behaviours as their defence mechanism. However, these can soon become their habit if you don't correct them without delay. Helping your dog learn and practice proper behaviour in different situations from an early age can help him feel relaxed and reassured and refrain from behaviours that are dangerous or inappropriate. So, you can look for a trainer who is experienced in handling a particular small dog breed in India.

As in the case of any breed, small dogs must be protected instead of being babied. It is important to rectify undesirable behaviour exhibited by your dog. On the other hand, it is vital to give him dog food suited to the energy and growth requirements of his breed size.

[theboysfromaustin]

Prague Ratter: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/65032625

Swedish Vallhund: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/65032980

[orcinus-ocean]

My article on hubpages.

Small dogs have been affected by this breeding for exaggerated looks more than other breeds, as they are overwhelmingly companion dogs, and perhaps when people want a smaller dog, they are naturally attracted to more "baby-like" features, including a flat face, stubby legs and a cobby body.

Here are a list of small dog breeds (under 40 cm/15.75"), that are all more or less "natural" in appearance, with no exaggeration, and no challenging coat that needs constant grooming.

They are sorted for size, from smallest to largest. Note that measurements in breed standards may vary slightly between kennel clubs.

Pražský Krysařík - the Prague Ratter

Not the Chihuahua, this is actually the smallest breed in the world according to breed standard, standing only 20-23 cm above the sea and weighing around 2.6 kilograms.

Originally a rat hunter, the Prague ratter is an active, affectionate, courageous and easily trained dog, which can be used in many activities including agility and obedience, as well as just cuddling in the couch.

Unlike many breeds of the same type, they are not usually yappy, but rather quiet.

The coat is short and smooth, and requires little to no care, but they do get cold and will need protection in cold weather.

With all these traits, it makes for a perfect companion dog for someone who wants a dog smaller than a cat.

Still, as with all small dogs, one must remember these very much grow into adult dogs, and need consistent rules and training, just as much as a large dog.

Russkiy toy - the Russian toy terrier

The Russian toy terrier is just around the same size as the Pražský Krysařík and Chihuahua. Superficially similar to the PK, they come in two coat types, where the long-coated (pictured) has uniquely feathered ears.

They stand slightly taller than the PK, at 20-28 cm, and weigh from 1.5-3 kg.

They were ratters and watch dogs, sounding the alarm if anything suspicious catches their attention. This makes them noisier than the PK, but like them, they are bold, lively, playful and affectionate.

Papillon and Phalène - the butterfly dogs

The French butterfly dogs ("Papillon" means "butterfly", "Phalène" means "moth") are so named due to the shape of their ears.

Unlike the previous two, this is a toy spaniel, rather than a toy terrier. Their common ancestry with the hunting spaniels is however very remote, as dogs very similar to these have been the companions of royals and nobles for at least four hundred years.

They stand 20-28 cm tall, and vary greatly in weight, from 1.5-5 kg. The only difference between the two is that the Papillon's ears are erect, while the Phalène's ears are drooped, and the Papillon is by far the much more popular of the two.

They are affectionate and playful with the family but may be reserved towards strangers. These little dogs can handle much more than people think, and you will most likely tire long before they do.

Agility, obedience, tracking, assistance dog, other than due to the sheer lack of physical size, there is almost nothing these dogs can't do.

They fit well as a family dog, as a teenager's first dog, as a companion to the elderly, just be careful with the youngest children, who could hurt the dog.

Despite their seemingly long and thick coat, the coat is single-layered and the dogs do not handle cold weather well. Coat care is also relatively simple, doing fine with the occasional brushing.

Portuguese Podengo Pequeno

The Podengo superficially resembles a larger and more moderate Chihuahua, but it is a purely European dog, and is instead related to the Spanish Podenco, and the Maltese Pharaoh hound.

At 20-30 cm in height and 4-6 kg in weight, they are the smallest size of Portugal's national breed, a rabbit hunting dog which has been common around the Mediterranean for possibly thousands of years. The Pequeno is also used as a companion dog and ratter, and can be quite a watchdog.

Confident and active, this dog needs something to do, or it will find ways of entertaining itself. It is also easily trained, social and friendly.

This little dog is one of the most long-lived breeds of all, with a lifespan of over 15 years not being unusual.

Miniature Pinscher - like a tiny Dobermann

The "Min Pin" is the small cousin of the Dobermann pinscher and German pinscher. It is however not a "miniature Dobermann". It is an old breed with a rather hazy origin. Like many other dogs in this size group, their history started as a ratter.

Standing 25-32 cm tall, and weighing 3.6-4.5 kilogram, this fearless little dog comes in black and tan and red, and can have its ears either erect or floppy (where it is legal, ears are typically cropped).

They may look small and cute, but don't let that fool you. These dogs can be quite a handful, energetic, stubborn and independent, with a high activity level. Many get them for their popularity and appearance, not realizing it is too much dog for them.

Nevertheless, in the right hands the "Min Pin" makes a great active companion dog and watch dog.

Lancashire heeler - the tiniest herder

Closely related to the Welsh corgi with some terrier blood rumored, the Lancashire heeler is more moderate in shape with longer legs, shorter back, smaller in over all size, and they are either black and tan or liver and tan in coloration.

They stand 25-30 cm tall, and weigh 5-8 kg.

Unlike most of the other breeds included so far in this article, the Lancashire heeler is a herding dog - the smallest there is. Their job was to herd cattle by nipping them in the legs, and being fast, agile and low enough to the ground to avoid their kicks.

Intelligent and active, they learn fast, both good and bad things, and need a lot of mental stimulation. The "heeler" is territorial and likes to live in a pack and to herd animals (which can include the family).

They are more robust than the previous breeds, commonly seen as a healthy and hardy breed with a long lifespan of 12-15 years. The Kennel Club's 2014 study showed an average lifespan of 11.8 years.

Schipperke - the little captain

Do you want a dog that looks like a black fox? Or like a tiny Belgian shepherd? Then you may want to take a look at this breed.

Although it's standing firmly at around 32 cm, its weight varies greatly, from 3-8 kilograms.

The Schipperke is a rare breed from Belgium, whose name is said to derive either from its history as a barge dog ("little skipper"), or its origin as a shepherd.

They share much in common with the previous breeds in this article, as they are a vocal and territorial watch dog, with a zest for life and lots of energy. They are not a lap dog, but a confident, intelligent and active companion dog.

In the Kennel Club 2014 study (UK), the Schipperke had an average lifespan of 13.5 years, one of the highest of all breeds, and living to 15 and beyond is not unusual.

Shetland sheepdog - the "little Lassie"

Despite their similar appearance, the Shetland sheepdog is not a miniature rough collie. Hailing from the Shetland islands north of Scotland, they are however undoubtedly related to the mainland sheepdogs, like the border collie and rough collie, although nordic spitzes like the Icelandic sheepdog are rumored to have made a contribution as well.

Standing at around 35-37 centimeters and typically weighing from 7-10 kilograms, they can vary in size both above and below this.

Quite different from the other breeds on this list so far, the "sheltie" is quite timid, and work has to be done to build the dog's confidence and avoid fearfulness. This makes them however easier to handle than the more stubborn and willful dogs.

Shelties are extremely intelligent and easy to train, excelling in things like agility, obedience, and freestyle. They are as well suited as a family dog, as to being a youth's first dog, as to the elderly, but they do need some physical and mental stimulation.

The Kennel Club's 2014 study found the sheltie to have an average lifespan of 12.5 years, which is higher than the average dog.

Alaskan Klee Kai - the "mini husky"

The Alaskan klee kai is one of the youngest breeds in the world, produced from unusually small Alaskan huskies, with some Siberian husky and small spitz-type dogs crossed in, in the early 1980s. Despite the catchphrase above, it is not a miniaturized Siberian or Alaskan husky.

They come in several sizes, and the largest goes above the 40 centimeter-limit I have put on breeds in this list, but they do go below that height. Those smaller dogs weigh around 4-9 kilograms.

Their temperament differs from the otherwise similar husky. While the husky is friendly and outgoing with strangers, the "klee kai" is reserved and shy around strangers, and can easily become attached to one specific person in the family. This means socialization is key, to get a social klee kai, but it also makes them a good watch dog.

Their prey drive is high, and you might never be able to train them to go off leash in an unfenced area. They are intelligent, courageous and energetic, and need plenty of exercise and stimulation.

German spitz - a big family

The German spitz is the ancestor of many small, long-coated spitz breeds today, including the Japanese spitz and the American eskimo dog (so named because of anti-German sentiment in America at the time).

They come in several sizes, but due to the purposes of this article, we will only include the three smallest - the Pomeranian (standing 18-22 centimeters tall and weighing 2-3.5 kilograms), the Kleinspitz (23-29 cm, 4-5 kg), and the Mittelspitz (30-38 cm, 7-10 kg).

The Japanese spitz is similar in size to the Mittelspitz, and similar overall to the German spitz, except they are always white.

Like most of the breeds in this list, they are excellent watch dogs, as well as companions. This however means they are very vocal, among the most vocal of all dogs, and nuisance barking is very important to deal with early.

It is also important to remember that just because a dog is small and cute, does not mean you should treat it like a baby instead of what it is, an adult dog. These adorable fluff balls need structure and respect as much as a mastiff or German shepherd.

Unlike many of the other breeds on this list however, they have a very low prey drive, and are thus easy to train to walk off leash.

They are curious, brave, and "cocky" little dogs with lots of energy and affection to spare. They are not couch potatoes however, and need their daily activity, or will make you listen to their boredom out loud.

Italian greyhound - little speedster

The Italian greyhound is the smallest of all sighthounds, and was once used for hunting rabbit. Today, it has been shrunk down in size and is not much bigger than the rabbit itself.

They still retain the large sighthound's will to run and chase, however, but do not realize how small and fragile they are. When still young and growing, their skeleton is sensitive, but the dogs may think of themselves as invincible, so great care must be taken so that they don't injure themselves in their antics.

There is arguably no breed that does poorer in harsh weather, and they need protection from the cold and wet. They also cannot be expected to live on the floor - warm, soft bedding is a must for an Italian greyhound, preferably under the covers.

Because of their hate of everything cold and wet, they can be quite challenging to housebreak - preferring to pee indoors rather than to go outside in bad weather.

Like all sighthounds, they cannot resist a moving target, but otherwise have little drive to kill small animals.

They are not easily motivated in training, but make for a great, soft-minded little companion dog, that loves close physical contact.

Swedish vallhund - viking wolf corgi?

The Swedish vallhund, or Västgötaspets (West goth spitz) is a close relative of the Welsh corgi and Lancashire heeler, but, like the latter, has longer legs and a shorter back. They are always wolf grey, most closely resembling a shrunken-down version of the Swedish elkhound (which it is not closely related to).

They stand 30-35 cm tall and weigh 9-14 kg, making them one of the most robust dogs in this list.

Unlike some misconceptions across the internet created by a meme about this breed, this dog is not a wolfdog, nor is it a corgi crossbreed. They do share ancient ancestry with the corgi however, and debates still rule whether the corgi came from Scandinavia, or whether the Swedish vallhund came from Britain.

However they came about, they have been herding cattle in Sweden for at least a thousand years. They almost died out in the early 20th century, but was saved by a breed enthusiast. Unlike many other breeds which have suffered from genetic bottlenecks, the Swedish vallhund remains very healthy, often living into the mid teens.

Like other cattle dogs, they are tenacious and hardy, and herd by nipping the heels of livestock (an instinct which can be redirected at people). They are said to have very good instincts, and try to care for people and livestock alike, if the dog feels they are unwell.

Like many other herding breeds, they are quite vocal, and need lots of activity, but are also very intelligent, trainable and cooperative. They will also guard the property, and make for a great companion.

Norwegian lundehund - the puffin dog

The Norwegian lundehund was used for hunting puffins on the steep rock faces of northern Norway, and might be one of the most unique breeds of dog in the world. They have up to six toes on each foot, can close their ears at will, bend their head back so the forehead touches their back, and can splay their legs straight out. The additional toes are fully functional and can be used almost like thumbs, which makes this dog even more unusual.

They stand 32-38 cm tall, and weigh around 5-6 kg.

The original purpose for this breed was to hunt puffins on the steep rock faces of northern Norway, which is why they have their unique traits (the name "lundehund" literally means "puffin dog").

Like many other breeds, the lundehund nearly died out in the 20th century, and were only barely saved from extinction. This has led to inbreeding depression, and while the breed overall is healthy and long-lived, they suffer from poor fertility and small litter sizes.

The lundehund is an alert, vocal and active dog which does not fear new environments, and is a great companion for outdoor activities. They can however be reserved towards strangers, and they miss nothing.

They are not particularly demanding, but happy to go wherever you go, and share in your activities. A prey drive exists, but is not very strong.

Kooikerhondje - little duck dog

The Dutch Kooikerhondje is one of the only spaniel breeds in the world that has not been exaggerated by the show ring. With small ears and a moderate, feathered coat, they can feel like a breath of fresh air to those who don't enjoy a show coat that needs to be removed, or long, dangly ears.

They stand 35-40 cm tall, and weigh around 9-11 kg.

With such a sweet face - they almost look like a larger Phalène - appearances can be deceiving. The Kooikerhondje is quite a hard dog, as far as spaniels go, and can be a challenge for the novice.

They can be quite independent, stubborn, and reserved towards strangers, with a strong guard instinct and courage. They need lots of activity and cannot be expected to be a pure companion dog. As they grow, they will test boundaries and will need calm, consistent guidance.

With all that said, they have great affection for their family, are attentive and playful, and makes for an active family dog.

[vargakisen]

Benjamin, my pride and joy

[homebrewstims]

🐾 PRAGUE RATTER / PRAZSKY KRYSARIK / PRAHA ROTIPÜÜDJA / PRAHAN ROTTAKOIRA🇪🇪 + 🐾 in the forest 🌳 - Prague ratter /prazsky krysarik 🍄 + 7 days old - Litter T -Prague Ratter from Bonbon + Prague Ratter + 🐾 PRAGUE RATTER / PRAZSRY KRYSARIK ⛵️ + Playful Prague Ratter puppies

Though this isn't my footage, I took the time to make the gifs. See my terms of use BEFORE you reupload!

[guiltyidealist]

I may be a little infatuated with that breed of dog I discovered last month, the Prague Ratter

[twocorndogs]

Give me the balloon ... by Lukas Vebr Via Flickr: Prague Ratter

[juupajaa]

I’m so so sorry about your dog!! I always feel a bit better when I listen to some twenty one pilots, hometown and we don’t believe what’s on tv are really good

Otherwise ‘here comes the sun’ by the Beatles usually reminds me there’s a better sunnier day ahead ❤️

Take care of yourself! It’s gonna hurt for a bit but maybe someday you’ll be able to get another little pup who you’ll love just as much.. you’re a wonderful person, I hope things look up

Thanks friend, that was really sweet and just what I needed to hear💕😔 It's been a few days now and the worst of it is over. I loved that dog so much and he was there with me through some of the shittiest years of my life and was my only friend for a few years. He came to me from such a shitty place too, I really felt like we were meant to be taking care of each other. I really hope he had a blast being my pup🥺 I know he got to romp around freely on a big yard and got lots of treats from the table so I guess he had it pretty good.

[itsaysnothingtomeaboutmylife]

If you're sad, here is some pics of Elvis looking like he's been drunk for four days straight

[provider-of-guardians]

The Prague Ratter competes with the Chihuahua for the title of world’s smallest breed of dog

I looked up pics of Prague ratters and then had to look up chihuahuas to see if I could even see a visual difference XD