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Rat Terrier

Rat Terrier is a small terrier breed from United States also known as American Rat Terrier, Ratting Terrier.

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Breed overview

Rat Terrier is a small terrier breed from United States also known as American Rat Terrier, Ratting Terrier.

Developed in America from various terrier breeds brought by early settlers, including Fox Terriers, Bull Terriers, and Old English White Terriers. They were bred specifically for farm pest control and were incredibly efficient ratters.

People looking into Rat Terrier usually prepare for High exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 10–25 lbs • 10–18 in.

American Rat TerrierRatting Terrier

History and origin

Rat Terrier is tied to originating from United States, specifically American farms, with sources often placing its development around 1890 CE.

Rat Terrier is described here as placed in the terrier group and marked as an established breed.

Developed in America from various terrier breeds brought by early settlers, including Fox Terriers, Bull Terriers, and Old English White Terriers. They were bred specifically for farm pest control and were incredibly efficient ratters.

Browse dog breeds from United States Browse more terrier breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
terrier
Size
Small
Origin country
United States
Region
American farms
Origin year
1890 CE
Weight
10–25 lbs
Height
10–18 in
Lifespan
12–18 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Rat Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortSmoothDense

Rat Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Compact, athletic terrier with rectangular body
  • Short, smooth coat in various color combinations
  • Erect, V-shaped ears (may be natural or cropped)
  • Alert, intelligent expression with round eyes

What this breed is known for

  • Developed in America from various terrier breeds brought by early settlers, including Fox Terriers, Bull Terriers, and Old English White Terriers. They were bred specifically for farm pest control and were incredibly efficient ratters.
  • President Theodore Roosevelt coined the breed name 'Rat Terrier' after his own dog helped rid the White House of rodents. They were so effective that some could kill over 2,500 rats in a seven-hour period.
  • Nearly disappeared during the 1940s-50s when poison became the preferred method of pest control, but was revived by breed enthusiasts. They come in two size varieties: Miniature (10-13 inches) and Standard (14-18 inches).

Health and care notes

Rat Terrier is noted here for High exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Luxating Patella
  • Heart Disease
  • Eye Conditions

Coat details: Short, Smooth, Dense

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Rat Terrier come from?

Rat Terrier is closely associated with United States, especially American farms in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Rat Terrier get?

Typical size details for Rat Terrier on this page are 10–25 lbs, 10–18 in, 12–18 years.

What is the Rat Terrier known for?

Developed in America from various terrier breeds brought by early settlers, including Fox Terriers, Bull Terriers, and Old English White Terriers. They were bred specifically for farm pest control and were incredibly efficient ratters.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Rat Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.