Lakeland Terrier vs Rat Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Rat Terrier is the larger breed at 10–25 lbs (males) vs 17 lbs for the Lakeland Terrier.
  • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Rat Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Lakeland Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLakeland TerrierRat Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandUSA
Height (male)
14–15"10–18"
Height (female)
14–15"10–18"
Weight (male)
17 lbs10–25 lbs
Weight (female)
17 lbs10–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–18 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.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Lakeland Terrier

The Lakeland Terrier is a bold, friendly, confident terrier from England's Lake District — fox-hunter with a square jaw. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, friendly, confident.

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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Lakeland Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes

Rat Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues