Rattle

The Rattle is a relatively new hybrid, though the two breeds that make the hybrid have long histories. The Rat Terrier was bred in the 1800’s in the United States by crossing fox and European Terriers that were prevalent during that time; these included Bull Terriers, English White Terriers and Manchester Terriers. Also incorporated into the breed were Whippets, Beagles and Greyhounds. A small, fast dog with a good temperament and scenting ability resulted. The breed became a multi-purpose farm dog who was able to hunt above and below ground. By the 1900’s, the breed was considered one of the most common working dogs on a farm. The breed earned the name “Teddy’s Terriers” as a result of Theodore Roosevelt having the dogs in the White House during his time as president. Demand increased due not only to the skill of the dogs but their intelligence and demeanor. While demand for the breed decreased as farm ratting dogs were no longer needed, the breed has been remembered and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2013. The Poodle is a much older breed; in fact it is one of the oldest breeds developed. It is believed that the breed first began in Germany and became the distinct breed we know today in France. The breed is a result of a combination of several European dogs to include the Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Hungarian and French water dogs; it is also believed that the North African Barbet is a part of the Poodle’s ancestry. Others believe that the Poodle is a descendant of Asian herding dogs, becoming the German Water dog as it was brought with the Ostrogoth and German Goth tribes. Still, others believe the breed descends from the Asian steppes. These dogs, perhaps, came with the Moors in the 8^th century. It is thought that smaller versions of the Poodle (Toy and Miniature) were developed in the 1400’s by breeding smaller Poodles with one another, in order to impress the Parisian Bourgeoise. Standard Poodles were used by the French for duck hunting while Miniature Poodles were useful for discovering truffles. The Toy Poodle was popular as a companion, mainly for the wealthy. The American Kennel Club registered its first Poodle in 1888.