Rat Terrier
Lot of dog in a small package
Rat Terriers 101
Terrier groupThe Rat Terrier is the formalization of an old American type of terrier, a scrappy, happy-go-lucky dog with determination and a keen desire to rid the world of vermin – including some that people now keep as pets! This athletic dog is up for any activity and does well in canine sports such as agility. They are typically friendly to all but reserve the largest part of their hearts for their families.
What we love about Rat Terriers
Smooth coated and impish in looks and deeds
Energy level
Energy level: 75% (High)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively
Size
Size: 10 to 18 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.
- Energy level
- High (75%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 10 to 18 inches
- Lifespan
- 12 to 18 years
- Weight
- 10 to 25 lbs
The Rat Terrier stands 10 to 18 inches tall and weighs 10 to 25 lbs. Rat Terriers have a lifespan of 12 to 18 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a talkative bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Rat Terriers get?
- Rat Terriers stand 10 to 18 inches tall and typically weigh between 10 and 25 pounds.
- How long do Rat Terriers live?
- The average lifespan of a Rat Terrier is 12 to 18 years.
- Are Rat Terriers good for first-time dog owners?
- Rat Terriers are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do Rat Terriers bark a lot?
- Rat Terriers are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Rat Terrier health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Rat Terrier
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
Mid-life Rat Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
- Luxated patella
- Above Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Below Average Risk
40% on risk scaleSenior Rat Terrier
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
Senior Rat Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Diabetes mellitus and Cushings disease and Valvular heart disease pose very high risk.
- Diabetes mellitus
- Very High Risk
- Cushings disease
- Very High Risk
- Valvular heart disease
- Very High Risk
Rat Terrier puppy
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
Rat Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Foreign body ingestion poses very high risk. Gastroenteritis and Conjunctivitis are at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- High Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Very High Risk
- Conjunctivitis †
- High Risk
Young adult Rat Terrier
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
As Rat Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Luxated patella
- Above Average Risk
- Allergic reaction
- Above Average Risk
- Dental disease
- Average Risk
Mature adult Rat Terrier
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
Mid-life Rat Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
- Luxated patella
- Above Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Below Average Risk
Senior Rat Terrier
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
Senior Rat Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Diabetes mellitus and Cushings disease and Valvular heart disease pose very high risk.
- Diabetes mellitus
- Very High Risk
- Cushings disease
- Very High Risk
- Valvular heart disease
- Very High Risk
Rat Terrier puppy
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
Rat Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Foreign body ingestion poses very high risk. Gastroenteritis and Conjunctivitis are at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- High Risk
- Foreign body ingestion †
- Very High Risk
- Conjunctivitis †
- High Risk
Young adult Rat Terrier
Risk level for common Rat Terrier conditions
As Rat Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Luxated patella
- Above Average Risk
- Allergic reaction
- Above Average Risk
- Dental disease
- Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Rat Terrier's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 6 months)
- Gastroenteritis: High Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Very High Risk, Conjunctivitis: High Risk
- Young Adult (7 months to 5 years)
- Luxated patella: Above Average Risk, Allergic reaction: Above Average Risk, Dental disease: Average Risk
- Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
- Dental disease: Above Average Risk, Luxated patella: Above Average Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Below Average Risk
- Senior (10+ years)
- Diabetes mellitus: Very High Risk, Cushings disease: Very High Risk, Valvular heart disease: Very High Risk
Early fans of the Rat Terrier included President Theodore Roosevelt, who may have said of this breed, "Bully!" (Or maybe not.)
Rat Terrier coat care and colors
Nothing could be easier. Weekly brushing, regular nail-trims (get them used to them early) and you're done.
How often should I bathe my Rat Terrier?
How often should I bathe my Rat Terrier?
How often should I brush my Rat Terrier?
How often should I brush my Rat Terrier?
What kind of coat does my Rat Terrier have?
What kind of coat does my Rat Terrier have?
Rat Terrier exercise & training
Rat Terrier fun facts
Top girl names for Rat Terriers
of Rat Terriers are female
of Rat Terriers are male
Top boy names for Rat Terriers
Nationwide loves Rat Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Rat Terriers insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Rat Terrier statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Rat Terriers
Best. Rat Terrier insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free