Rat Terrier
Also known as Ratting Terrier
United States, Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 25–46 cm
- Weight
- 4–11 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–18 yrs
- Intelligent
- Playful
- Lively
- Compact
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is a small, smooth-coated American terrier developed as a farm dog to kill rats and other vermin. It comes in miniature and standard sizes and in many colours, often pied. It is lively, compact and athletic.
Temperament
Rat Terriers are intelligent, playful and affectionate with their families, though they can be reserved with strangers. They have a strong prey drive and enjoy digging.
Exercise
They need around an hour of exercise daily, including play, walks and opportunities to sniff and dig. Mental challenges help prevent boredom.
Grooming
The short coat needs only a weekly brush, though it sheds seasonally. Keep nails trimmed.
Care & wellbeing
Secure fencing is important, as they can dig or climb out. Training goes well with positive methods and variety. A sudden red, painful eye can signal lens luxation and needs an urgent vet visit.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 7.5 kg adult- Water
- 300 ml–450 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 510 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Rat Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Rat Terriers developed in the United States from the late 1800s, mostly from Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers and other terriers, with Whippet, Italian Greyhound and Beagle blood thought to have been added in some lines. They were common on farms in the early 20th century. A popular story links the name to President Theodore Roosevelt, but the evidence for this is thin. The UKC recognised the breed in 1999 and the AKC in 2013.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Primary lens luxation
- Skin allergies
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Dental malocclusion
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella check
- Primary lens luxation (PLL) DNA test
- Hip scoring
- Heart examination
Not every Rat Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–18 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Rat Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Rat Terrier get?
Adult Rat Terriers typically stand about 25–46 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 4–11 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Rat Terriers live?
Typically 12–18 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Rat Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Rat Terrier need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Rat Terriers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Rat Terriers shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Rat Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Rat Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Rat Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, primary lens luxation, skin allergies. Not every Rat Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Terriers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the AKC and UKC; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club