Rat Terrier vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Rat Terrier and Golden Retriever 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.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Small
4.5–11 kg
Short, smooth
12–18 years
4–9 kg
High energy
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 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
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Rat Terrier
Patellar luxation, dental issues
Golden Retriever
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
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation 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
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
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
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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