About Prague Ratters.
Brief History.
Prazsky Krysarik (Prague Ratters) were once the pride and joy of Czech noblemen. The earliest record of the breed comes from 8th century chronicles. Kings often sent these dogs as gifts to the rulers of other countries, sending them with a message of peace and friendship.
Later, Prague Ratters expanded from the royal court and became popular among common people who used the dogs for hunting rats.
The breed continued to be a popular pet and working dog through the centuries but went into decline during the Second World War and the Soviet era. In 1969 canine specialists in the Czech Republic called for the breed to the revived. Enthusiasts took up the call and the restoration of the breed began seriously in the 1980s. A standard was developed and approved by the Czech Association of Breeders. The breed club (the Klub Pratel Psu Prazskych Krysariku) was established in 1990. The breed gained recognition from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (the World Canine Organisation) in 2019.
The number of dedicated breeders, owners and fans of this newly regenerated Czech breed is growing, and it is already popular in many European countries and in Australia, Japan and the USA.
In Australia the breed has now been officially recognised by Dogs Australia and can now be exhibited in show rings around Australia. The are officially on the breed registry of Dogs NSW.
Prague Ratters Today.
Even though they originated from the Czech Republic, with its freezing winters, they love the warm Australian climate. Prague Ratters love to snuggle up in your bed, blankets, baskets of washing or a nest of pillows. This behaviour dates back to when they lived in stables and made a bed by nesting into hay.
Size.
If you own a Prague Ratter you will frequently be asked if he or she is a Chihuahua, or a mini-pincher or a mini anything. Prague Ratter’s are even smaller than each of these breeds, but they are not a “tea cup” pet or a “mini” variation. Prague Ratters are a breed entirely of their own, typically 20-23cm tall, weighing up to 2.6 kilograms
Lifestyle.
A Prague Ratter will surely catch the attention of passers-by. So be prepared to get stopped during your daily errands. Our puppies love to be a part of your daily life, they’ll gladly rest in a handbag our run along beside you. They are incredibly social and adventurous, so they’ll enjoy playing with other pets big and small. You get the best of both worlds, a lap dog and a play mate!
Colour.
Black and tan is the most common and original colour of the Prague Ratter with a short glossy coat. Now, brown/tan, lilac/tan, red, yellow and long hair variations are approved. We breed for temperament and health rather than colour and coat, however our Prague Ratters are adorable whatever their colour.
Temperament.
Intelligent.
Prague Ratter’s are easy to teach and train. Because of this, they can be trained for agility, obedience and tracking. Many Prague Ratters from our club have participated in shows and won awards. Pictured above is Cupitalek Secure Power (imp Czech) winning the Best Puppy in Show at Jerenice, March 2016 with Harriette from Jamboree Prague Ratters.
Active.
Prague Ratters are alert little companions that love to play. They are also very quick. We find taking nice photos of them quite the difficulty because they often think it’s a game! They will love learning new tricks. While they are small, they still love interaction and need their daily play.
Loyal.
A Prague Ratter can easily become attached to you. When you’re so small - a big protector is very handy indeed! This is why the critical socialisation period is so important for Prague Ratter puppies. When they learn to love your family, feel safe with your friends and play with other pets - you’ll have a little companion that loves your environment (but you the most… of course).