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Pražský Krysařík
Toy breed from Czech Republic
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Pražský Krysařík
The Pražský Krysařík, also known as the Prague Ratter, is a toy breed originating from the Czech Republic. It is a very small, elegant dog with a fine bone structure and an alert expression. The breed comes in two coat varieties: smooth and long. Pražský Krysaříks are described as alert, intelligent, loyal, affectionate, lively, playful, and confident. Their energy level is moderate (3 out of 5), and they are highly trainable (4 out of 5). Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5), and shedding is minimal (2 out of 5). They are well-suited for apartment living (5 out of 5) and are moderately compatible with children (3 out of 5) and other dogs (3 out of 5). Adult males and females weigh between 1 and 3 kg, with a height of 20 to 24 cm. Their estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Pražský Krysařík at a glance
Sizetoy
Breed groupToy
OriginCzech Republic
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight1–3 kilogram
Female weight1–3 kilogram
Male height20–24 centimetre
Female height20–24 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Pražský Krysařík is an ancient Czech breed that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was developed as a companion and ratting dog, favored by nobility in Prague Castle and royal courts. The breed is recognized by the FCI as a Czech national breed. According to one source, the breed was revived from near-extinction in the 1980s. However, the exact timeline and details of its history are not fully documented in the provided facts. The breed's origins are firmly in the Czech Republic, and it has historically been kept as a companion and ratter.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
1–3 kilogramAdult weight20–24 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesSmooth, LongCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Alertintelligentloyalaffectionatelivelyplayfulconfident
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Pražský Krysařík-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Pražský Krysařík puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight1–3 kilogramAdult female weight1–3 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Pražský Krysařík?
The Pražský Krysařík is a toy breed. Adult males and females weigh between 1 and 3 kg and stand 20 to 24 cm tall at the shoulder. Their estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These measurements are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Pražský Krysařík?
The breed is described as alert, intelligent, loyal, affectionate, lively, playful, and confident. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Pražský Krysařík need?
The breed has a moderate energy level (scored 3 out of 5). They require regular exercise but are adaptable to apartment living. Daily walks and playtime should suffice, but individual needs may vary.
What are the grooming requirements for a Pražský Krysařík?
Grooming needs are low (scored 2 out of 5). The breed has smooth or long coat types. Shedding is minimal (scored 2 out of 5). Regular brushing is recommended, especially for long-coated individuals.
Is a Pražský Krysařík suitable for apartment living?
Yes, the breed scores 5 out of 5 for apartment suitability. Their small size and moderate energy make them well-suited for apartments, provided they get adequate exercise.
How does a Pražský Krysařík get along with children and other dogs?
The breed has moderate compatibility with children (scored 3 out of 5) and other dogs (scored 3 out of 5). Early socialization and supervision are recommended, as individual temperaments can vary.
Where does the Pražský Krysařík originate from?
The breed originates from the Czech Republic. It is an ancient breed dating to the Middle Ages, historically kept as a companion and ratter in royal courts. It is recognized as a Czech national breed by the FCI.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.