Prague Ratter is a common dog breed in its country of origin and very rare anywhere else. Let’s meet this seemingly fragile dog known to the kings of Bohemia.

Prague Ratter comes from the Czech Republic and in the Czech language the name of the breed is Pražský krysařík or alternatively Libeňský srneček (after one of the city quarters in Prague). It’s colloquially also known as ratlík which comer from the German word Rattler (Ratter).

History of Prague Ratter

The first written mentions of the Prague Ratter come from the 8th century. The breed enjoyed a great popularity at the court where puppies were often given as valuable presents and signs of peace, as well as in common households where they were bred to kill rats. Ratters were often present at important feasts at the Prague Castle.

Later on the Prague Ratter became a companion of burghers who had no more need for a ratter but a companion dog was a part of their social status.

Although the breed is not internationally recognized and not very common beyond the borders of the Czech Republic, it was awarded provisional recognition by the FCI in April of 2019 and you can see the breed at Czech and Slovak dog shows.

Appearance, Temperament and Health

Appearance of the Prague Ratter

Height: 21 – 23 cm/8.3 – 9 in average

Weight:  2,6 kg/5.7 lb in average

Prague Ratter is often mistaken for a Miniature Pincher because it has many similar features – triangular muzzle, erect ears, thin legs…

The ratter is a small breed of fragile to slightly athletic built and two coat varieties – short, smooth and glossy or long with fringes on the limbs, tail and ears. The original color is black and tan, however, colors like brown, blue, lilac or even merle are also acceptable, all of them with tan.

Temperament

It’s a lively and energetic breed that’s very loyal to it’s master, very alert and has excellent sense of smell. Although generally playful the ratter is rather suspicious when it comes to people the dog doesn’t know. This makes is a good watchdog although due to it’s size it’s not suitable for family or property protection. These dogs don’t tend to be dominant and they get on well with other dogs as well as children. When it comes to children, they have to learn how to handle a ratter as the animal is quite fragile.

Teaching the dog basic orders isn’t complicated as the breed is an intelligent one.

Health

The average life expectancy of the breed is 13-15 years.

Prague Ratter isn’t especially problematic breed when it comes to health issues, however, there are some illnesses that are more typical for this breed than other:

• tooth and gum illnesses such as paradontosis
• bone fractures

Would you like to meet another Czech dog breed? Then read about the Bohemian Fousek!