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Dog Breed🏆 #97 Most PopularTerrier Group

Rat Terrier

Canis lupus familiaris · United States

The Rat Terrier is a lively and intelligent small-to-medium-sized dog breed with a rich history as a working farm dog and cherished family companion. Known for their agility, loyalty, and spirited nature, Rat Terriers excel in various roles, from hunting and pest control to being a loving member of the family. With their boundless energy and charming personality, they thrive in active households.

Friendliness★★★★☆

Intelligence★★★★☆

Family Fit★★★★☆

Trainability★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Weight

10–25 lbs

Height

10–18 in

Life Span

12–18 years

Temperament

Lively, Alert, Inquisitive

Energy Level

High

Trainability

Very Good

Shedding Level

Low

Good With Children

Very Good

Good With Other Pets

Good

Exercise Needs

45 min daily

Fun Facts

🐕

American Ratter

The Rat Terrier was bred on American farms to hunt rats.

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Presidential Name

President Theodore Roosevelt is said to have named this breed.

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Two Speed Modes

Rat Terriers are either full of energy or completely relaxed.

Breed Tags

#Energetic#Ratter#GoodForFirstTimeOwners#SmalltoMedium#ShortCoat

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

82%

Intelligence

80%

Affection Level

82%

Energy Level

80%

Protectiveness

65%

Playfulness

82%

Adaptability

72%

Trainability

78%

Apartment Suitability

65%

Beginner Owner Suitability

72%

Detailed Breed Information

Health

Rat Terriers live 12 to 18 years, one of the longer lifespans of any breed. Patellar luxation, dental crowding, and certain heart conditions occur in the breed. Incorrect bites and malocclusions are also noted. Overall this is a very hardy, long lived dog when sourced from responsible breeders. Routine vet visits keep most Rat Terriers healthy well into their senior years.

Grooming

The short, smooth coat is among the lowest maintenance of any breed. Brush once a week with a rubber mitt to remove loose hair. Bathe monthly or when your dog gets into something. Clean ears weekly, trim nails every three to four weeks, and brush teeth regularly. That covers everything with this breed.

Exercise

Your Rat Terrier needs 30 to 45 minutes of active exercise daily. Walks, fetch, and agility style games match their lively energy well. Secure fencing matters since they have strong prey drive and will pursue anything that moves. Mental stimulation through scent games and training keeps their sharp minds satisfied.

Training

Rat Terriers are intelligent and generally easier to train than most terrier breeds. Positive reinforcement works well. Start socialization early since they can be reserved with strangers. Their prey drive needs consistent management. Keep sessions short and engaging since they bore quickly with repetition.

Nutrition

Feed a quality small breed formula with good protein twice daily. Rat Terriers can gain weight if overfed and under exercised. Measure portions and keep treats minimal. Two meals per day is better than one. Fresh water should always be available.

History

The Rat Terrier developed in the United States as an all purpose farm dog and hunting companion, descended from a mix of Smooth Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers, and other working terrier breeds brought by English immigrants. American farmers valued them for killing rats and other vermin with remarkable efficiency. President Theodore Roosevelt reportedly gave the breed its name after his Rat Terriers cleaned the White House of a rat infestation. The breed gained AKC recognition in 2013.