Rat Terrier — Breed Profile
"Alert, intelligent, loving, trainable"
Farm dog turned family comedian
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Active families, farmers, hunters, apartment dwellers with time for exercise, first-time dog owners, households without small caged pets
Not Ideal For
Sedentary owners, families with small rodents or birds, those seeking a quiet dog, owners unable to provide secure fencing, those wanting a low-prey-drive companion
Health Considerations
Patellar luxation, heart conditions, demodectic mange, dental issues
Estimated annual vet cost: $300-$800
Breed History
An American original with roots in small hunting dogs called feists. Common throughout family farms in the 1920s-1930s. The breed name is said to have been coined by President Teddy Roosevelt. Now recognized by both UKC and AKC, though considered a rare breed despite recognition.
Fun Facts
- Breed name reportedly coined by President Teddy Roosevelt
- Comes in two size varieties: miniature and standard
- Known as a 'portable' companion due to small size
- Original purpose was eliminating rats and other vermin on farms
- Despite AKC recognition, still considered relatively rare compared to other terrier breeds
Famous Rat Terriers
Unknown specific famous individuals; breed popularized by Teddy Roosevelt