Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog vs Rat Terrier

Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is the larger breed at 35–50 lbs (males) vs 10–25 lbs for the Rat Terrier.
  • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Rat Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian Stumpy Tail Cattle DogRat Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
AustraliaUSA
Height (male)
18–20"10–18"
Height (female)
17–19"10–18"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs10–25 lbs
Weight (female)
35–50 lbs10–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog

The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is an alert, hardy, watchful Australian drover — cousin to the Cattle Dog with a naturally bobbed tail. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as alert, hardy, watchful.

About the Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier is a friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin. Originally from USA, this small terrier breed typically weighs 10–25 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lovable, alert.

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Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Deafness
  • Eye disorders

Rat Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues