I’ve had the pleasure of owning a Rat Terrier for several years, so I can speak from personal experience about what a Rat Terrier’s tail looks like. Traditionally, the tail of a Rat Terrier has been docked to about 2-3 inches in length. This means that a portion of the tail is surgically removed when the puppy is very young. The reason for this practice is that Rat Terriers were originally bred for hunting and vermin control, and a shorter tail was believed to reduce the risk of injury while working in tight spaces.
However, it’s important to note that the bobtail gene is very common in Rat Terriers. This gene can result in a variety of tail lengths, including a naturally short or even completely absent tail. This means that some Rat Terriers are born with naturally short tails, while others may have longer, more traditional tails.
In recent years, there has been a growing preference among some breeders and owners for a natural, undocked tail in Rat Terriers. This has led to changes in the breed standards, with some kennel clubs now accepting and even encouraging undocked tails in the show ring. This is a positive development, as it allows for more diversity in the appearance of Rat Terriers and respects the natural qualities of the breed.
In terms of appearance, a Rat Terrier’s tail, whether docked or natural, is typically carried erect or slightly curved. It is usually set high on the back and tapers to a point. The tail is covered in short, smooth fur that matches the dog’s coat color. It is worth noting that Rat Terriers have a wide range of coat colors and patterns, including solid colors, bi-colors, and tri-colors, so the tail can vary in color as well.
To summarize, the tail of a Rat Terrier can be traditionally docked to about 2-3 inches in length, but the bobtail gene is common in the breed and can result in a variety of tail lengths. Nowadays, some breeders and owners prefer a natural, undocked tail, which is accepted in the breed standards. Regardless of tail length, a Rat Terrier’s tail is typically carried erect or slightly curved, set high on the back, and covered in short, smooth fur that matches the dog’s coat color.