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Rat Terrier
Terrier breed from United States
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is a small, smooth-coated terrier breed originating in the United States. It is alert, intelligent, energetic, friendly, playful, and loyal. Its energy level is rated 5 out of 5, indicating a very active dog. Trainability is rated 4 out of 5, suggesting it is generally responsive to training. Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5), and shedding is moderate (3 out of 5). The breed is estimated to weigh between 4 and 11 kg and stand 25 to 46 cm tall, with a lifespan of 12 to 18 years. These figures are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary. The Rat Terrier is classified in the Terrier group, but its recognition status varies by registry; for example, the American Kennel Club recognized it in 2013, but other registries may differ.
Quick facts
Rat Terrier at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupTerrier
OriginUnited States
Lifespan12–18 years
Male weight4–11 kilogram
Female weight4–11 kilogram
Male height25–46 centimetre
Female height25–46 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Rat Terrier was developed in the early 20th century in the United States. It descends from European terriers brought by British migrants, including the Fox Terrier and Manchester Terrier. The breed was created for farm vermin control and companionship. President Theodore Roosevelt was a notable owner and is credited with naming the breed. The Rat Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2013, but recognition varies by registry. The breed's history is tied to its role as a versatile all-purpose farm dog and vermin hunter, though specific dates of development are not precisely documented.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
4–11 kilogramAdult weight25–46 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesSmoothCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Alertintelligentenergeticfriendlyplayfulloyal
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
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 · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low 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 Rat Terrier-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
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
Similar breeds
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Growth chart
Rat Terrier 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 weight4–11 kilogramAdult female weight4–11 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 Rat Terrier?
According to modelled estimates, adult Rat Terriers weigh between 4 and 11 kg and stand 25 to 46 cm tall. Their lifespan is estimated at 12 to 18 years. These figures are estimates, so individual dogs may differ.
What is the temperament of a Rat Terrier?
The breed is described as alert, intelligent, energetic, friendly, playful, and loyal. However, individual temperaments can vary, and not every dog will display all these traits equally.
How much exercise does a Rat Terrier need?
With an energy score of 5 out of 5, Rat Terriers are very energetic and require substantial daily exercise. They benefit from activities like walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
What are the grooming requirements for a Rat Terrier?
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5) due to their smooth coat. Regular brushing and occasional baths are sufficient. Shedding is moderate (score 3 out of 5).
Is a Rat Terrier suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 4 out of 5, indicating they generally get along well with children, but supervision is always recommended. Dog compatibility is rated 3 out of 5, meaning they may be selective with other dogs; early socialization is important.
Can a Rat Terrier live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5. While they can adapt to apartment living if given enough exercise, their high energy level may make a home with a yard more suitable.
Where does the Rat Terrier originate from?
The Rat Terrier originated in the United States, developed in the early 20th century from European terriers such as the Fox Terrier and Manchester Terrier, brought by British migrants.
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.