Pražský Krysařík
A tiny, elegant Czech ratting companion (Prague Ratter), one of the smallest breeds in the world. Lively, affectionate and devoted, it makes a charming companion but is fragile and can be wary of strangers.
Overview
A tiny, elegant Czech ratting companion (Prague Ratter), one of the smallest breeds in the world. Lively, affectionate and devoted, it makes a charming companion but is fragile and can be wary of strangers.
Good to know — a Pražský Krysařík is flat-friendly and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Pražský Krysařík is fine with sensible, older children and generally fine with other dogs. They tend to be a moderate barker, and as a guide they are good for first-time owners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with older, respectful children
- Committed first-time owners
- Flats or houses with daily exercise
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Pražský Krysařík typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is easy-care and shedding is low. A quick brush now and then, plus the occasional bath when needed, is usually plenty.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Pražský Krysařík should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a toy breed will eat relatively little compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Tiny, affectionate and apartment-friendly
- Lively, alert little companion
Things to consider
- Very small and fragile around rough handling
- Can be reserved or nervy with strangers
Similar breeds
Yorkshire Terrier
A tiny, feisty toy terrier with a big personality — ideal for flats but delicate around small children.
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Chihuahua
The world’s smallest breed — devoted, sassy and perfect for flats, but not the easiest with young children.
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Pomeranian
A lively, fox-faced toy dog with a luxurious coat — bold and fun, but tiny and quite vocal.
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Italian Greyhound
A tiny, elegant sighthound — affectionate, clean and quiet, but delicate and sensitive.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Pražský Krysaříks good with children?
Fine with sensible, older children. As a general guide, Pražský Krysaříks tend to be fine with sensible, older children. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Pražský Krysařík need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Pražský Krysařík needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Pražský Krysaříks shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Pražský Krysaříks easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Pražský Krysaříks are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Pražský Krysaříks bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Pražský Krysaříks good with other dogs?
Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Pražský Krysaříks suit flats or smaller homes?
Flat-friendly. A Pražský Krysařík can adapt to flat living as long as it gets its daily exercise and company.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.