Rat Terrier
Also known as: Ratting Terrier, American Rat Terrier, Decker Giant
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
10-25 lbs
Height (Male)
10-18 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Rat Terrier is an all-American farm dog bred for ratting, hunting, and companionship. With their intelligence, versatility, and loving nature, they are adaptable companions with a deep American heritage.
History
An American breed developed from a mix of terriers, Whippets, Beagles, and Italian Greyhounds. President Teddy Roosevelt reportedly named them. Popular on American farms in the early 1900s. Come in two sizes: miniature and standard. AKC recognized in 2013.
Appearance
A well-muscled, compact terrier available in miniature and standard sizes. Short, smooth coat in various color combinations with white. Alert, intelligent expression. Erect or tipped ears. Athletic, moderate build.
Temperament
Friendly, curious, and lively. Rat Terriers are all-purpose companions with terrier spirit and exceptional loyalty. They are adaptable, intelligent, and affectionate—as comfortable on a farm as in an apartment.
Personality Around Others
Very friendly with family. Good with children. Generally good with other dogs. Love being part of family activities. Social and outgoing.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise needs. Daily walks, play, and mental stimulation. Enjoy variety in activities. Adaptable to owner's activity level.
Training
Intelligent and eager to please. Quick learners. Positive reinforcement works well. Versatile in many activities.
Grooming
Very easy grooming. Weekly brushing. Occasional baths. Regular nail and dental care. Low-maintenance coat.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Generally very healthy with an exceptionally long lifespan. Few breed-specific issues. Regular health screening recommended.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patellar Evaluation
- Hip Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
Average Annual Vet Cost
$500-$1,000
Nutrition
Quality food appropriate to size. Two meals daily. Not prone to obesity with adequate exercise.
Living Environment
Adaptable to any living situation. Great apartment dogs. Also thrive in rural settings. Versatile.
Ideal Family
Families, singles, seniors. Good first-time owners. Anyone wanting a versatile, loving companion.
Intelligence
Very intelligent and quick to learn. Eager to please. Excel at obedience and agility. Good problem-solvers.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Moderate barkers. Alert to sounds and visitors. Can be trained to moderate barking.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Moderate shedding. Short coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
President Teddy Roosevelt reportedly named the breed
Come in miniature and standard sizes
One of the most versatile terrier breeds
Exceptionally long lifespan—some live 18+ years
Were essential on American farms for pest control
Famous Dogs
Skip
A Rat Terrier who starred in the movie My Dog Skip (2000), based on Willie Morris's memoir
Common Myths
"They're just mutts"
Rat Terriers are a carefully developed American breed with a specific standard and purpose
"They only catch rats"
They are versatile all-purpose dogs excelling at companionship, sports, and various tasks
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do they live?
Exceptionally long—12-18 years. Some have been documented living to 20+ years.
What's the difference between sizes?
Miniature is 10-13 inches; Standard is 13-18 inches. Same breed, just different size varieties.
Puppy Guide
Rat Terrier puppies are playful and quick to learn. Easy to train. Socialize broadly. They adapt quickly.
Senior Care
Senior Rat Terriers remain active and loving. One of the longest-lived breeds. Moderate exercise keeps them happy.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$10,000-$16,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Exceptionally long lifespan
Versatile and adaptable
Easy to groom
Great family dog
Affordable
Cons
Moderate shedding
Prey drive
Can dig
Needs mental stimulation
Can be clingy