Bull Terrier vs Rat Terrier
Terrier · Medium vs Terrier · Small
Bull TerrierMedium
A playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog.
Weight: 50–70 lbsLifespan: 12–13 years
Rat TerrierSmall
A friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin.
Weight: 10–25 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
Quick take
- • Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 10–25 lbs for the Rat Terrier.
- • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Rat Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Rat Terrier sheds less.
- • The Rat Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Bull Terrier | Rat Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | England | USA |
Height (male) | 21–22" | 10–18" |
Height (female) | 21–22" | 10–18" |
Weight (male) | 50–70 lbs | 10–25 lbs |
Weight (female) | 50–70 lbs | 10–25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–13 years | 12–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | 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. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.
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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Bull Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Deafness
- • Heart disease
- • Skin issues
- • Kidney problems
Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues