Rat Terrier
"Teddy's Terrier"
History
The Rat Terrier is an American breed created from Fox Terriers and other European Terriers (e.g. Old English White Terriers, Manchester Terriers, Bull Terriers), Beagles, Whippets, Italian Greyhounds and others. President Theodore Roosevelt had Ratties as pets because of their intelligence and good disposition.
Temperament
Observant, devoted, and lively, Ratties make great companions and family dogs. They love to play, but they want to be with you, so they suit families who want a friend and playmate. They want lots of exercise, but after a long walk and some running around the yard, they are happy to cuddle on the couch or in your lap. Like other intelligent breeds, they need mental stimulation as well as exercise.
Appearance
They come in two sizes – miniature and standard. They are sturdy, compact and muscular, with ears that are either upright or bent at the tip, and may be born with a short or longer tail. Their short, shiny coat can be many different colors, including white, sable, chocolate, red (solid, brindle, or with white), tri-colored, red, black and tan, and blue and white.
Training
Ratties are feisty and fearless, but well-mannered and eager to please, so they are easy to train. Use positive reinforcement and be consistent with the rules, and they will master many tasks in no time. They excel at obedience and agility if you are looking for a dog to do these activities with.
Grooming & Care
The soft, single coat is easy care – brush weekly with a soft brush or curry mitt and bathe only as needed. They shed more heavily in the spring and fall, when you may wish to brush them more often.
Health Concerns
Though they are a generally healthy breed, the most common health problems that they can be prone to are patella luxation (dislocated kneecap), allergies and skin problems.
Famous Rat Terrier
Shirley MacLaine talked about her Rattie, Terry, in her 2003 book "Out on a Leash."
| Ideal Owner | |
|---|---|
| Activity Level | Active |
| Schedule | Full-time but comes home for lunch |
| Personal Style | Easygoing and casual, Playful |
| Training Style | Consistent, Firm, Positive |
| Home | Well dog-proofed |
| Children | Gentle and respectful kids |
| Experience | Not necessary |
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Size | Small, Medium |
| Grooming | Easy to care for - brush weekly |
| Exercise | High - needs to walk every day, plus some running and play |
| Training | Learns well but bores easily |
| Temperment | Loyal, Alert, Energetic |
| Challenges | While generally not yappy, they can bark a lot if bored. Be sure to tire them out and provide entertaining toys. |
| Height | 10 to 18 inches |
| Weight | 6 to 35 pounds |
| Life | 18 to 20+ years |
| Home Alone | Bores easily and can get into mischief |
| With Kids | Fine with older kids |
| With Strangers | Cautious at first but okay with them if you are |
| Availability | Available, so choose your breeder carefully |
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on May 30, 2014.
