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Rat-A-Pap |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
U.S.A. <> France and Belgium -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Rat-A-Pap |
| The Rat-A-Pap is a hybrid, a cross between the Rat Terrier and the pure-bred Continental Toy Spaniel. The hybrid is an alert little dog with an intelligent expression and great energy. The Rat-A-Pap is a charming dog with a keen intuition for its owner's moods. They are excellent family dogs and have enough energy to play with children. The American Canine Hybrid Club currently recognizes the Rat-A-Pap. As a designer dog, the Rat-A-Pap is also recognized by the Designer Dog Kennel Club and the International Designer Canine Registry. |
History of the Rat-A-Pap |
| The Rat-A-Pap is a hybrid between the Rat Terrier and the Continental Toy Spaniel. Little is currently known about the origins of the hybrid, and a detailed history of intentional crossing is not available. Hybrid standards don't exist for this breed, and the Rat-A-Pap can vary considerably depending on which parent breed most closely resembles it. Owners can therefore consult the respective histories of both parents for a better understanding, as well as the history of the bloodlines. |
A little of the Rat Terrier |
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| The Rat Terrier is, as its name suggests, from the Terrier group. The breed is an American dog derived from several other well-established breeds, including the Manchester Terrier, American Fox Terrier, Old English White Terrier and Bull Terrier. The aim of the crossbreeding programs that led to the Rat Terrier was to produce a small rat dog with a smooth coat and a tenacious personality for hunting vermin. The size also had to be small to fit into rat hiding places. The Rat Terrier was also crossed with other breeds, such as the Beagle in the southern USA and the Greyhound and Whippet in the Midwest. The Beagle has been used to enhance the Rat Terrier's pack mentality, and the Greyhounds and Whippets to increase the fleet's capabilities against fast hares. Variations within the Rat Terrier still exist today and are permitted by American Kennel Club standards, which were only established in 2013. | ||
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| Presentation of the Rat Terrier |
A little of the Continental Toy Spaniel |
| The Continental Toy Spaniel is a much older breed, having been established in Europe in the 16th century. The breed belongs to the Spaniel family and was developed in France. Originally, the ears of the Continental Toy Spaniel were floppy, but a butterfly-like preference prevailed. The preference for the raised ear led to the name Continental Miniature Spaniel Papillon. The Papillon's floppy-ear variation continues to exist, but is rare. Its name, Continental Toy Spaniel Phalene, also refers to its ears, which mean moth and refer to the wings of a moth at rest. The Continental Toy Spaniel, with its affectionate disposition, remained a court favorite in Europe and made its way to the United States in the late 19th century, where the American Kennel Club recognized it in 1915. |
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| Standard of the Continental Toy Spaniel |
Appearance of the Rat-A-Pap |
| The Rat-A-Pap can vary in appearance according to the parent breed it most closely resembles. The coat, regardless of length, will always be smooth and soft to the touch, but can vary from short to medium-length. As a general rule, the hair around the ears will be longer than the body. The ears are also large and erect, with a small point at the top. The eyes are large, brown and have an intelligent expression, and the muzzle is long and tapered. The Rat-A-Pap has a sturdy, compact body with a slight curve to its tail. Coat color variations can range from dark to light, but the Rat-A-Pap will almost always have white hair. |
Temperament of the Rat-A-Pap |
| The Rat-A-Pap is a family-oriented dog that loves to be with its people. They often follow their owners from room to room and are eager to please. Their eagerness and intelligence make them easy to train, but prey-minded Terrier bloodlines can be difficult for novice owners. The Rat-A-Pap is a child-friendly dog, but is best suited to older children and those who know how to interact with a dog. When it comes to strangers, the Rat-A-Pap is curious and friendly towards new people. They will bark if necessary and alert their owners, but otherwise they are not considered guard dogs or too shy with strangers. The Rat-A-Pap has high energy and is considered easy to train. |
Needs and activities of the Rat-A-Pap |
| The Rat-A-Pap has lots of energy and loves to run and jump. They are able to jump high from a standing position without starting a run, and can jump a low fence to chase an animal. Therefore, owners need to make sure their backyard is secure and always look after their Rat-A-Pap when outside. The Rat-A-Pap also needs plenty of mental stimulation to lead a healthy life. A bored Rat-A-Pap can develop negative behaviors, such as chewing and digging. The Rat-A-Pap's high energy requires daily exercise, preferably outside in a small backyard. They are best suited to small houses with yards, but can adapt to apartment living if they get enough daily exercise. The Rat-A-Pap has a greater tolerance for colder climates than warmer ones, but prefers temperate environments. |
Maintenance of the Rat-A-Pap |
| The Rat-A-Pap is not a hypoallergenic dog and is considered a moderate shedder. However, short-haired Rat-A-Paps will shed more. Weekly brushing will help remove the Rat-A-Pap's loose, dead fur, and owners should also check their dog's ears during grooming. The Rat-A-Pap can have longer hairs around the ears that trap dirt and moisture, and if they're not clean, they can lead to ear infections. The Rat-A-Pap's coat is smooth and easy to clean with weekly brushing, so baths are not necessary. Bathing the Rat-A-Pap too much can irritate its sensitive skin and cause atopic dermatitis. The Rat-A-Pap can also develop dental problems over time, so brushing is suggested at least three times a week. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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