Rat Terrier vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Rat Terrier and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Rat Terrier
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.
German Shepherd
Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family companion and a reliable working partner. Always alert and eager to learn, it adapts to many roles with ease.
Quick comparison
Small
4.5–11 kg
Short, smooth
12–18 years
4–9 kg
High energy
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
9–13 years
22–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Rat Terrier
Generally sociable with family and familiar people
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, requires regular exercise daily
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
German Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, highly trainable and alert
Needs regular activity and vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, interactive and engaging
Adjusts well to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Rat Terrier
Patellar luxation, dental issues
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Rat Terrier
Good option
Intelligent and eager, but may need firm guidance for training
Suitable with exercise
Small size fits apartments, but needs daily activity to prevent restlessness
Highly suitable
Energetic nature matches well with active lifestyles and outdoor activities
Generally good
Playful and gentle, but supervision needed around very young children
Usually compatible
Can coexist with other pets if socialized early and properly
Not recommended
Prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods
German Shepherd
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced, consistent training and socialization
Not ideal
Needs space and frequent exercise to prevent boredom
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical and mental challenges
Highly suitable
Loyal and protective, can be gentle and patient with proper socialization
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if raised together and well socialized
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Rat Terrier
- 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
German Shepherd
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent working and service dog abilities
- Protective instincts make them good guardians
- Adaptable to various training activities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Rat Terrier
- 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
German Shepherd
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- High exercise needs require daily activity
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- May be wary of strangers without socialization
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience