Rat Terrier: Size, Weight & Temperament

The Rat Terrier is bright, playful, and closely bonded to its family, though it can be wary of strangers. It learns very quickly and loves mental and physical challenges.

As a classic terrier it has a strong hunting and prey drive toward small animals and rodents, which should be kept in mind when off-lead. It needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation, or it becomes restless or destructive.

The short, smooth coat is very low-maintenance and needs only occasional brushing. Because its coat is thin, it chills quickly in cold weather and often needs a coat in winter.

The breed is considered very robust with few hereditary conditions and often reaches an advanced age. There are two size varieties (Standard and Miniature) with correspondingly different weights.