Atlas Terrier

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Atlas Terrier dogs are direct descendents of the Jack Russell Terriers with one difference being the Atlas Terriers are found in solid colours also. The skull is flat between the ears and tapering. The eyes are almond shaped and can have one of many colours like brown, marble, yellow, green, hazel, cobalt and glass. The ears are V-shaped and forward folded. The dog has strong and moderately long neck with a tapered body. Chest is broad and pliable while limbs are powerful and angulated. The body is structured in such a way as to provide the dog agility, athleticism and fast speed.

The Atlas Terrier displays two types of coats and can have any color. White on chest, face, collar and toes is allowed and must not exceed more than 15% of body colour according to the breed standards.

This dog comes in three different sizes; Toy Atlas Terrier has height and weight between 9-11 inches and 6-12 pounds respectively; Mini Atlas Terrier has height and weight between 11-13 inches and 10-15 pounds respectively while standard Atlas Terrier has height between 13-15 inches and weight between 13-18 pounds.

This breed is not recognized by AKC however it is recognized by ATA, APRI, FCI, ACR, DRA with ATA(Atlas Terrier Association) being unique in the sense that all Atlas Terriers are DNA profiled and micro-chipped.

Color

The Atlas Terrier can have any color including merle and brindle.

Coat

This breed sports two types of coats. One is smooth while the other is Wiry.

Personality

Being an offshoot of the JRT, the Atlas Terrier not only resembles its ancestors in physical qualities but also in personality traits. These dogs are very happy, playful, loving and devoted. They like to form strong bond with their human family and love to receive attention. They will love to play lapdog during down time. This dog is highly intelligent and curious. It gets along well with considerate children and like to play with them.The Atlas Terrier is highly energetic and spunky in nature. Though used as hunting dog to kill small animals like vermin, rats and snakes, the breed is very loving and affectionate as well as obedient. Though non-aggressive in nature, this dog will stand its ground if it feels threatened. As with all dog, early age socialization and training is necessary to make this dog comfortable around strangers and other pets. It does have a tendency to be barky and likes to dig and explore. This can be cut down through proper training. The dog is suitable for living indoors, in apartment life but will like every opportunity to play outdoors. With proper socialization, this dog makes an excellent family pet.

Care

Neither of the two coat types, smooth and wiry, need any special grooming or maintenance. Brushing either coat once or twice a week and occasional bathing will keep the coat in top condition.

Training

Establishing immediate trust and respect is key to successfully training the Atlas Terrier. The dog itself is very intelligent, eager to please and very willing to learn and would respond to basic training and commands. The dog has the ability to learn and perform any tricks its master has time to teach.

Activity

This high energy dog loves to play and run in preferably large yard. It likes to play games like agility, flyball and racing. A daily long walk will fulfill its exercise needs.