Keeshond vs Rat Terrier
Non-Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small
KeeshondMedium
A friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face.
Weight: 35–45 lbsLifespan: 12–15 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
- • Keeshond is the larger breed at 35–45 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.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Keeshond | Rat Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Netherlands | USA |
Height (male) | 18" | 10–18" |
Height (female) | 17" | 10–18" |
Weight (male) | 35–45 lbs | 10–25 lbs |
Weight (female) | 35–45 lbs | 10–25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Keeshond
The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.
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.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Keeshond health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues
- • Epilepsy
Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues