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Rat Terrier

Loved by 86% of pet parents

Energetic, smart, and loyal, this compact breed thrives on activity and human companionship. Quick to learn and playful, Rat Terriers make affectionate and alert family pets.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

25–38 cm (male)

23–36 cm (female)

WEIGHT

4.5–11 kg (male)

4–9 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

12–18 years

Rat Terrier: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Rat Terrier isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Rat Terrier's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

Rat Terriers are alert, lively, and affectionate companions known for their playful nature and strong family bonds. They can be reserved with strangers but are generally friendly and adaptable.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Generally sociable with family and familiar people

Intelligence

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level

Very active, requires regular exercise daily

Playfulness

Enjoys games and interactive activities

Adaptability

Adjusts well to various living environments

Strengths

Alert and responsive to surroundings
Highly intelligent and quick to learn
Strong prey drive benefits pest control
Loyal and affectionate with family
Agile and energetic for various activities

Challenges

Prone to digging and escape attempts
May be stubborn during training sessions
Needs consistent mental and physical stimulation
Can be vocal and bark frequently
May chase small pets due to prey drive

Protect your Rat Terrier

Rat Terrier are active and energetic, but they can develop patellar luxation and dental issues. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.

Insure your pet

Intelligence & exercise needs

Rat Terriers are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Quick learner

Overall rating

Rat Terriers are highly intelligent and quick learners, responding well to consistent, positive training methods. Their problem-solving skills and eagerness to please make them suitable for various canine sports and activities.

Trainable Tasks:

Basic obedience commands

Agility course navigation

Scent detection games

Vermin hunting skills

Recall and off-leash training

Leash walking etiquette

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

45–60 minutes daily

recommended per day

This breed has high energy levels and needs daily physical exercise along with mental stimulation to stay content. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive toys help prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors.

Recommended Activities:

Agility competitions

Nose work classes

Barn hunt trials

Daily brisk walks

Interactive fetch sessions

Hide-and-seek games

Is this breed right for you?

Rat Terriers are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Rat Terrier would fit well in your home.