The Prague Ratter, also known as "libeňský srneček" (Libeň roe), is the smallest and oldest Czech breed. This little dog is very temperamental. He is a very lively and devoted companion.
The Prague Ratter is a very old breed known since the Middle Ages. There are records of dogs with a similar appearance from as early as the 8th century. The Ratter quickly abandoned his role of rat catcher and became a companion to burghers and monarchs. He often appeared at feasts at Prague Castle, or was given as a sign of friendship and respect. At the time, and even today, the Prague Ratter was referred to as "ratlík" from the German word rattler (rat catcher).
The German Miniature Pinscher replaced the Prague Ratter in the 19th century, and the Ratter began to sink into oblivion. This changed in the 20th century, when Czech cynologists decided to restore this national breed. Although it is still mostly popular in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, this year it has been recognized as a breed by the Federation Cynologique Internationale FCI and its popularity is spreading to other countries.
I don't need to describe what the Ratter looks like. It looks like a miniature elegant Dobermann with a height of about 20 cm. It has a compact body structure and a pear-shaped head with round eyes and relatively large ears. It is most often black or brown and tan.
Its size makes it an ideal city dog. This is supported by the fact that it behaves calmly in apartments and is not excessively barky compared to many other small breeds. However, it's not a "handbag" dog. It's a lively little dog that needs lots of fun and exercise. He likes being outdoors and loves nature. He is good at agility and freestyle sports, but he will also do well in obedience exercises. Watch out for the squirrels when you go for a walk, he still has hunting instincts! He tolerates the company of other animals well and is a good companion to children, with which he has a great time.
In terms of care, you don't need to do much for the Ratter. His coat is basically maintenance free, he just needs some clothing in winter. You must also watch out for his ears in winter as they may freeze. Other than that, it's a strong dog that is not prone to congenital diseases.
This dog has a wonderful nature. Obedience and devotion are in his blood, and he's a cheerful and playful companion, but he needs lots of stimulation so he's not bored. He is not aggressive by nature, but he is careful around strangers, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. If you hear him bark, he probably has a good reason to do so.
If you have a Prague Ratter at home, you will surely agree that you and your children could not have wished for a better friend to take anywhere with you.
According to some estimates, around 5-10 percent of all dogs can be partially or completely deaf. Apparently, dogs with white coats are more prone to deafness. Even though it does not affect only older dogs, it is not a topic that is often discussed....
Nowadays, it is common for town cats as well as village cats to be castrated. The reasons are understandable and people have fortunately moved away from the old-fashioned tradition of drowning kittens. But what to expect from castration, especially in...
It is said that a dog is a man's best friend Recent research therefore tends to focus on how dogs think and what they perceive during specific moments. The diversity of their thinking is based on the fact that dogs have gradually become involved in...
Fetching is a favourite activity for many dogs. Some dogs have it in their genes. Others must be shown how it is done before they start enjoying it. As with all other commands, positive motivation and rewarding are important. How to go about it?
The Czech Republic had the honour of taking on the host role and providing a venue for the World Dog Show organised for exhibitors, breeders and dog breed enthusiasts. It was agreed among the visitors that the event was successful. As a venue for the...
Do you find it hard to decide when there's so much to choose from? If you're like me, it's best to try out the harness first before you buy it for your four-legged friend. Today, the selection of dog harnesses is truly varied. There are harnesses for...
Autumn is here. And with it comes the flu season. Colds and other ailments associated with this time of the year do not only affect people, but also their four-legged friends. Especially widespread and highly dangerous in case of non-treatment is the...
Breed registry, pedigree, bonitation, bonitation card or bonitation commission, exterior, breeding certification - these are all terms that you will inevitably encounter if you want to have a 'certified' dog, namely a dog with a pedigree. What...
These little creatures, which we have adopted as full-fledged pets, the same as cats and dogs, are much more interesting than seems at first glance. What are the five peculiarities associated with the most numerous order of mammals, which every...
Gastric torsion is the nightmare of all dog owners. According to statistics, in three out of five cases gastric torsion happens at night. This is a very serious illness with a mortality rate of 30-40 percent. In order to prevent gastric torsion, it's...
The events of recent weeks have reaffirmed the importance of cynologists in rescue teams. The rescuers' four-legged partners help search not only in rubble after natural disasters but also track missing or injured persons in inaccessible terrain. Now...
How to give first aid to your pet? We often don't find out until something happens. Fortunately, there are more and more courses for complete laypersons. During these specialized seminars or webinars, owners of four-legged friends can find out the...
