Rat Terrier Rat Terrier

Rat Terrier

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Intelligent Curious Lively Sensitive

About the Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier is an American original, developed in the early 20th century on farms across the United States by crossing Fox Terriers with Beagles, Whippets, Italian Greyhounds, and other breeds. They come in two sizes — Miniature (10 to 13 inches, 10 to 18 pounds) and Standard (13 to 18 inches, 12 to 25 pounds) — both with a compact, elegant build. Their short, smooth coat is always pied (white with patches of one or more other colors), and President Theodore Roosevelt is credited with naming the breed after his own terrier cleared the White House of rats.

Temperament & Personality

Rat Terriers are intelligent, curious, and remarkably versatile — combining terrier tenacity with a more biddable, people-oriented temperament than many of their terrier cousins. They bond deeply with their families and are generally good with children, often choosing one person as their particular favorite. Rat Terriers tend to be less dog-aggressive than other terriers, though they retain a strong prey drive toward rodents and small animals.

Pros

  • Excellent farm and homestead dog with natural pest control abilities
  • More trainable and less stubborn than most terrier breeds
  • Minimal grooming needs — short coat requires only occasional brushing
  • Generally healthy breed with a long lifespan of 12 to 18 years

Cons

  • Can be diggers — will excavate impressive holes in gardens and yards
  • High energy level requires daily exercise and mental engagement
  • Prone to patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and cardiac issues
  • May be wary of strangers and needs early socialization to prevent timidity

A Rat Terrier could be the spirited, loyal companion your household needs — find one on Puplister today.

Rat Terrier Quick Facts

Size
10–25 lbs, 10–18 in
Lifespan
12–18 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes

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Available Rat Terriers

Little Debbie
Adult 4

Affenpinscher / Rat Terrier

Joyful Pets Animal Rescue · Amherst, MA
Kari
Young 1
Kari
S

Basenji / Rat Terrier

Project Hope Animal Rescue · Coldwater, MI
Cheddar
Adult 1

Rat Terrier

New Rattitude · Atlanta, GA

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a Rat Terrier?
The Rat Terrier is known for being intelligent, curious, lively and sensitive.
How many Rat Terriers are available for adoption?
There are currently 30 Rat Terriers available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a Rat Terrier from Puplister?
To adopt a Rat Terrier, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.