Buzablu Rat Terriers | Linda Lee

Interview with Linda Lee, Breeder of Buzablu Rat Terriers

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

Linda Lee: I live in Colorado. I have been in dogs for 50-plus years; breeding for 10 years.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

Linda Lee: My kennel name is Buzablu Rat Terriers. I currently keep 10 dogs.

Which breeders have provided the greatest influence on my decision to breed dogs?

Linda Lee: I had an interest in showing after I got my first Rat Terrier. I received my first purebred Rat Terrier from Sand’s Kennels. I also used bloodlines of Skippin CJ Rat Terriers.

Can I talk a bit about my foundation dogs? How have they influenced my breeding program?

Linda Lee: My foundation dogs were from Ratitatt Kennels and Sand’s Kennels.

What about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

Linda Lee: We have 25 acres with a big dog yard and a kennel attached to our barn with an indoor/outdoor run with heating/air-conditioning. All puppies are whelped in our heated/air-conditioned attached garage in a full kennel set-up. Puppies are raised in this indoor kennel and, as they get older, their space increases to half of the garage area. This area has different services as well as toys, a jungle gym, litter box, and a tug that hangs from the ceiling. Their freedom increases as they get older, to going outside in the yard area under supervision.

Do I have a “process” for selecting show puppies? At what age do I make my decisions?

Linda Lee: My mentor/co-breeder and I FaceTime when the pups are between 7 and 8 weeks, to see which puppies will be held back. Also, with raising and being around the litter, I have a feel for what might be held back.

How do I choose the homes for my puppies? Is puppy placement important to me as a breeder?

Linda Lee: I have a questionnaire that I have them fill out. If they pass this, I go further.

Can I share my thoughts on how my breed is currently presented in the show ring?

Linda Lee: Our breed is supposed to be shown at a brisk walk or a slow trot, to show reach and drive with movement off the shoulder and not from the leg. The Rat Terrier is not like other Terriers, which we have noticed many judges do not understand. There is such a variation in our breed on height, from 10 inches up to and including 18 inches, that, at times, we need to adjust how we show a particular dog because of this variation. We want a great topline, a great chest, and a great rear assembly.

Are there any health-related concerns within my breed? Any special nutritional needs?

Linda Lee: Rat Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but Primary Lens Luxation and Luxating Patellas are concerns. We feed a high-end kibble in the mornings and a raw B.A.R.F. diet with supplements in the evening. We give them a variety of treats such as chicken feet, cow cheeks, cow ears, etc.

In my opinion, is my breed in good condition overall? Any trends that warrant concern?

Linda Lee: Yes, my Rat Terriers are in very great condition. I think it is important for them to have room to play and run. I have seen dogs crated for way too long, which causes boredom and behavioral issues. They need exercise and a job that will keep them happy.

Is my breed well-suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?

Linda Lee: I feel Rat Terriers are good for a family dog, but they do need jobs and they do need exercise. They love to be with their people.

Do I feel that my breed is supported by a sufficient number of preservation breeders?

Linda Lee: I feel there are still preservation breeders. There are also several new breeders who are not keeping the traits of what makes a correct Rat Terrier.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with my breed?

Linda Lee: These dogs do have big personalities. They are jokers, lovers, and pranksters. They are very smart, and this can come across as being hard-headed. You, as a trainer, just have to make it fun and exciting, and then they will do what you want them to do. The people they choose are their world and they will let you know that.

Are you looking for a Rat Terrier puppy?

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin finding a breeder? Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral person, which you can find on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Want to help rescue and re-home a Rat Terrier dog?

Did you know nearly every recognized AKC purebred has a dedicated rescue group? Find your new best friend on the AKC Rescue Network Listing.

Rat Terrier Dog Breed Magazine

Showsight Magazine is the only publication to offer dedicated Digital Breed Magazines for ALL recognized AKC Breeds.

Read and learn more about the friendly Rat Terrier dog breed with articles and information in our Rat Terrier Dog Breed Magazine.