Rat Terrier
4.5-11.3 kg
25-45 cm at the shoulder
12-18 years
United States
About the Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier is a quintessentially American breed, developed in the late 19th century by immigrants who crossed several terrier breeds—including the Smooth Fox Terrier and Manchester Terrier—to create the ultimate farm dog. Unlike many terriers bred for a single purpose, the Rat Terrier was designed as a multi-purpose hunter and guardian, capable of clearing barns of vermin and hunting small game to feed the family. In the 1910s and 20s, Whippet and Italian Greyhound blood was introduced to specific lines to increase speed, resulting in the sleek, agile silhouette seen today. Physically, they are sturdy but elegant dogs with a smooth, wedge-shaped head and an expression of vivid intelligence. They come in two size varieties (Miniature and Standard) but share the same keen, alert temperament. While they possess the typical terrier grit and high prey drive, the Rat Terrier is noted for being more 'sensible' and attuned to their owners than many of their cousins. They are deeply devoted to their families and often prefer to spend their downtime curled up next to their humans after a day of activity.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Rat Terrier is a picture of balanced athleticism and smooth, clean lines. Their movement should be efficient and ground-covering, showing no signs of cloddiness or frailty. A hallmark of the breed is the 'wedge-shaped' head and the large, erect or 'button' ears that signal their constant state of alertness. Their coat must be short and smooth with a distinct sheen, highlighting their muscular conditioning. What truly sets the Rat Terrier apart is their remarkable 'dual-nature'—displaying fierce, unyielding intensity when focused on a task, yet transitioning instantly into a composed, elegant companion when the work is done.
Bred For
Vermin control (ratting), hunting small game, and farm companionship
Temperament
Intelligent, alert, spirited, and surprisingly affectionate; more sensitive than many other terrier breeds
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, , (), , and cardiac conditions
Exercise Needs
At least 40-60 minutes of daily activity, including walks and vigorous play; they thrive on mental challenges like scent work or agility
Grooming Needs
Minimal; weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt and regular nail trimming are sufficient
Living Suitability
Highly adaptable; they can live in apartments if provided with sufficient daily exercise, but they truly thrive in homes with a securely fenced yard where they can explore.
Good with Kids
Very good with children, especially when raised with them; they are generally more patient than other terrier breeds but still require supervised interaction.
Good with Other Pets
Usually good with other dogs, though they can be bossy; their high prey drive means they may not be suitable for homes with small pocket pets like hamsters or mice.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them easier to train than many terriers; however, they can possess a stubborn streak and require consistent, positive reinforcement.
Coat & Colours
Short, smooth, dense, and shiny. Always piebald (white with patches of color); patches can be black, tan, chocolate, blue, apricot, or lemon
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware of the Rat Terrier's high prey drive; they are predisposed to chasing anything that moves, so a secure yard and leash-walking are essential. Like many small breeds, they are more likely to experience patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps) and dental disease due to their smaller mouths, meaning regular vet checks and dental care are important. Some Rat Terriers are prone to skin allergies and atopic dermatitis, which can be managed with a clean, fresh-food diet and avoiding common environmental triggers. They can also be quite vocal when they sense an intruder or a squirrel, and some individuals may develop a love for digging—a trait that can be redirected into constructive play like sandpits or scent games. While they are sensitive and loving, they do have a typical terrier independence that may require a patient hand during training. These traits aren't hurdles, but rather part of the vibrant, engaging personality that makes the 'Ratty' such a rewarding companion.
Feeding Guide for Your Rat Terrier
Healthy Weight
4.5-11 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
110-330 grams
For a healthy adult Rat Terrier, we recommend a fresh or raw diet consisting of approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a standard 8 kg dog, this equates to roughly 200g per day, split into two meals. Puppies and highly active working dogs may require up to 4-5% of their body weight.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, protein-rich diet is essential to maintain lean muscle mass and support their high metabolic rate
A balanced raw diet for a Rat Terrier should focus on lean, high-energy proteins. Majestik's Kangaroo or Beef mince options are excellent primary protein sources. Incorporate crushed bone for calcium and organ meats like heart and liver for essential vitamins. A single-protein diet is sometimes used during a veterinarian-guided elimination trial to help identify individual food sensitivities. It should not be presented as treating or curing allergies. Include a small portion of pureed leafy greens or berries for antioxidants to support their long-term health.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Rat Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Rat Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
Subscribe & Save on Rat Terrier Meals
Get your Rat Terrier's fresh and raw meals delivered every two or four weeks. Small subscriptions are combined into a four-week box. Pause, skip or cancel anytime.
Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-7 puppies
Rat Terrier Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Rat Terrier owners
Other Small Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
