Rat Terrier Maltese Mix Complete Guide

The Rat Terrier Maltese Mix is a unique and lovable breed that combines the spunk of a Rat Terrier with the sweetness of a Maltese. This mix is often referred to as a Mal-Terrier.

The Rat Terrier Maltese Mix typically weighs between 8-12 pounds and stands about 9-10 inches tall. Their coats can vary in color and texture, but often resemble a mix of the Rat Terrier's short coat and the Maltese's silky locks.

Their small size and gentle nature make them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers or families with small children.

Rat Terrier Maltese Mixes are generally plucky, healthy pups, living up to 12-18 years on average. They can be prone to allergies and sometimes develop issues with hip dysplasia and luxating patella.

It's essential to research and interview breeders thoroughly, taking at least a couple of months to find a reputable one. A good breeder will have you visit their facility or home, and be willing to answer pointed questions about their lines of dogs.

A reputable breeder will also vett prospective puppy owners, asking tough questions to ensure the health and wellness of their dogs is at the forefront of their minds.

Additional reading: Rat Terrier Breeder

Bella, the Maltese Rat Terrier mix, is a great example of a unique and lovable breed. She is 50% Maltese, which gives her a sweet and affectionate personality.

Her other parent is a mix of 5 different breeds, including Rat Terrier, Shiba Inu, Yorkshire Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. This mix of breeds makes her a high-energy dog that loves to jump and dig.

At 23 weeks old, Bella weighs 8.8 lbs and has small paws and features, which suggests she may not get much bigger. However, her size can vary depending on her individual growth.

Some owners have reported that their Maltese Rat Terrier mixes can be prone to shedding, but it's not a guarantee. Bella's owner notes that she is very smart and active, but also happy and loving.

Here's a rough breakdown of Bella's breed mix:

Bella's story is a great reminder that buying a dog from a breeder or pet store may not always guarantee the breed you're expecting. Her owner was initially misled into thinking she was a toy Poodle, but it turned out she was a Maltese Rat Terrier mix.

The American Rat Terrier is a great choice for many dog owners. They are naturally obedient and intelligent, making training a breeze.

Their offspring, like the Ratese, are also easy to train, given their inherited traits. This means you can teach your American Rat Terrier new tricks in no time.

Some breeds, like the Ratese, require very little grooming. A weekly brush is all it takes to keep this charming dog looking its best, and the same likely applies to the American Rat Terrier.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Amstaff Mix

You may be able to find Maltese Rat Terrier Mix puppies in shelters, which can cost less than buying a puppy from a breeder.

The cost of rescuing a dog varies according to the shelter, but will usually cost less than buying a puppy.

A reputable breeder will ensure the parent dogs have had all necessary health checks and screening checks.

They will also keep the parents and puppies in good condition, and be transparent about the breeding process.

Worth a look: How Much Does a Rat Terrier Cost

Disreputable breeders may try and sell you a puppy that doesn't match your breed requirements, or overbreed their dogs.

They may also keep their dogs away from people to make socialization harder.

A good breeder will ask you questions to ensure the breed is suitable for you, and let you meet the puppy and its parents.

A unique perspective: American Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier Maltese Mix, also known as the Ratese, is a small-to-medium breed that usually weighs around 15 pounds when fully grown.

Their coats tend to be a beautiful blend of many different colors.

Ratese owners often describe their pets as curious and lively, with an amiable disposition.

Both parent breeds can be suspicious of newcomers, making it crucial to socialize a Ratese frequently to prevent them from becoming overly territorial.

They don't have endless patience for young children who play too rough, and can snap in defensiveness if they feel threatened.

Cookie, a 2-year-old Maltese Rat Terrier mix, is a great example of how this breed can thrive in a household. She's very outgoing and loves people and animals of all sizes.

To keep your Rat Terrier Maltese mix healthy, be mindful of their food motivation. They'll do just about anything for a treat, so it's essential to limit their snacks and meals to prevent obesity.

Housebreaking is a breeze with this breed, as Cookie was completely trained from day one. Make sure to establish a routine and reward good behavior.

Your Rat Terrier Maltese mix is likely to be highly intelligent and quick to learn, just like Cookie. They'll pick up on objects, people's names, and other animals with ease, so be prepared to engage in fun training sessions.

It's not uncommon for Rat Terrier Maltese mixes to be a bit vocal, but they're not typically high maintenance dogs. With regular exercise and attention, they'll be happy and content companions.

Your Rat Terrier Maltese mix can enjoy a long and healthy life, with an average life expectancy of 16 years or more.

A different take: How Long Do Rat Terrier Dogs Live

Regular health checks are crucial to detect any potential health issues early on. Be sure to keep an eye out for symptoms of color dilution alopecia, demodectic mange, and dental disease.

These conditions can be caused by genetics, poor diet, or lack of proper care. Make sure to provide your furry friend with a balanced diet and regular grooming to prevent these issues.

Joint dysplasia, patellar luxation, and patent ductus arteriosus are also potential health concerns for your Rat Terrier Maltese mix. Keep an eye out for signs of joint pain or discomfort, and consult with your vet if you notice any unusual behavior.

Here are some potential health issues to watch out for:

The Rat Terrier Maltese Mix, or Ratese, is a highly adaptable breed that makes a great companion for active seniors, families, and individuals.

This breed is known for being very loving and enjoying the company of its owners, often following them everywhere and sitting on their lap at every opportunity.

With a strong instinct to hunt, you'll need to take care of small animals around the house to prevent any potential issues.

The Ratese requires at least an hour of exercise a day to stay happy and healthy, making it a great choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Training may be a bit challenging at first, as the breed can be stubborn, but with patience and consistency, you can develop a strong bond with your Ratese.

Overall, the Rat Terrier Maltese Mix is an enjoyable and loving companion that can thrive in a variety of living situations.