Description

The forehead is rounded. Height doesn't matter as long as the dog is well balanced. The height at the withers should be approximately the same as the length from withers to tail set. The dog should be pear-shaped, with the shoulders wider than the tail area. The short, soft, easy-care coat comes in brindle, fawn, white and combinations of brindle or fawn with white. The skin is soft and fairly loose, making the dog very pleasant to pet. The prominent round eyes are dark colored and the bite is undershot. The tail is either straight or cork-screw. They can climb trees with amazing cat-like agility and are capable of leaping to great heights from a stand-still position. This little dog does best with a family who likes entertainment and has a very good sense of humor.

Temperament

The Pusiterrior is generally quiet but can become vehemently excited when threatened or attacked and is fearless toward any aggressor. The Pusiterrior is hot-tempered and reckless and also quite combative with other dogs. It may unwisely challenge large dogs and other large animals. They tend to bark loudly and even climb. They are self-willed to the point of obstinacy. They are often naughty and are aware of it. It is important that you can see the funny side when things go wrong but this does not mean allowing them to take advantage of you. This dog can be high strung and must be handled very gently. The Pusiterrior is sometimes arrogant and can get snappish if surprised or peeved.

Height, Weight

Smallish

Health Problems

High incidence of anger, hostility and resentment can result in PDA (patent ductus arteriosus), and open fontanel.

Living Conditions

Easily adaptable to a variety of different environments.

 Exercise

The Pusiterrier is a lively little warrior that does not need a lot of exercise.

 Life Expectancy

The Pusiterrior is hardier than it appears, however the high incidence of behavioral problems cause a high flow of adrenalin, resulting in the possibility of a shortened life.

 Grooming

Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary.

Origin

Named by the perceptive Teddy Roosevelt, the Pusiterriors were developed in Great Britain originally from Smooth Fox Terriers and Manchester Terriers in 1820. They were brought to the USA in the 1890's. At that time they were all their original color of black and tan. Life Magazine showed President Roosevelt with three black and tan Rat Terriers. American breeders crossed them again with the Smooth Fox Terrier as well as the Beagle and Whippet. The Beagle increased bulk, trailing and hunting ability, along with the red color. Whippet contributed the speed and agility and probably the blue and brindle colors. The smallest variety was derived from the Smooth Fox Terrier and Chihuahua, resulting in the Pusiterrior. It proved to be one of the best in the rat-baiting pits. One Pusiterrier is reported to have killed over 2,501 rats in a span of only seven hours in a rat infested barn. The Pusiterrier is a hard-working farm hand, able to rid an infested barn of vermin with no problem. This is a dog that has not forgotten its ancient terrier instincts, and will therefore to this day will fight mice and small animals.

 Group

Terrior, Gun Dog, hunter, hound

 Recognition

WWF, WCW, NFL, NHL, ADD