Rat-A-Pap

The American Rat Terrier is a well-muscled, compact breed that comes in two distinct size varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club. The Miniature variety stands between 10 and 13 inches at the withers, while the Standard variety measures 13 to 18 inches tall. Weight is proportional to height, typically ranging from 10 to 25 pounds depending on the size variety. The breed possesses a sturdy, athletic build with a deep chest, strong shoulders, solid neck, and powerful legs that reflect its heritage as a working farm dog. The body is compact yet substantial, giving the appearance of a dog built for both speed and endurance. The topline is level when standing and moving, contributing to the breed's balanced silhouette. The American Rat Terrier's coat is short, smooth, dense, and shiny, lying close to the body and requiring minimal grooming. The breed is always parti-colored, featuring a white base with patches of one or more additional colors. Acceptable colors include black, chocolate, red, apricot, blue, fawn, tan, and lemon, with tan points being common in tricolor patterns. The coat should have a glossy appearance that reflects the dog's overall good health. Seasonal shedding is moderate and can be managed with regular brushing. The skin fits smoothly over the muscular body without excess wrinkling. The head is wedge-shaped when viewed from above, with a moderately broad skull that tapers slightly toward the muzzle. The stop is moderate but distinct. The ears can be carried erect, semi-erect, tipped, or button style, though they should always be alert and mobile when the dog is attentive. Eyes are oval-shaped, set wide apart, and come in various colors that complement the coat, expressing intelligence and alertness. The breed may be born with either a natural bobtail or a full-length tail, both of which are equally acceptable. When present, the tail is carried in an upward curve. One of the American Rat Terrier's most distinctive features is its hackney-like gait, characterized by a high-stepping, elegant movement that demonstrates the breed's exceptional agility and athleticism.

The Papillon is a small, elegant toy breed that takes its name from the French word for butterfly, inspired by the breed's distinctive ear shape. Standing 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 5 and 10 pounds, the Papillon is a fine-boned, dainty dog with a body that is slightly longer than it is tall. Despite its delicate appearance, the breed possesses a surprisingly robust constitution and athletic capability. The overall structure conveys elegance and lightness combined with sufficient substance to indicate an active, hardy little dog. The most striking feature of the Papillon is its large, butterfly-wing ears, which are set high on the head and carried erect at approximately a 45-degree angle. The ears are heavily fringed with long, flowing hair that creates the signature butterfly silhouette. A closely related variety called the Phalène features dropped, spaniel-like ears and is considered the same breed by most kennel clubs. The coat is long, abundant, fine, and silky, lying flat on the back and sides of the body without any undercoat. This single-coated structure means the breed does not experience the heavy seasonal shedding associated with double-coated breeds. Papillons are always parti-colored, predominantly white with patches of any color except liver. The patches should cover both ears, front and back, and extend from the ears over both eyes. A distinct white blaze running down the center of the face is preferred. The breed features a profuse frill on the chest, feathering on the backs of the forelegs, and a plumed tail carried arched over the back. The feet are small and hare-like, covered with fine hair. The head is small with a slightly rounded skull, a well-defined stop, and a fine, tapered muzzle. Eyes are medium-sized, dark, and round, conveying an alert, intelligent expression that reflects the breed's quick mind.