Poodle (Standard) vs Rat Terrier

Non-Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Poodle (Standard) is the larger breed at 60–70 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 Poodle (Standard) sheds less.
  • The Poodle (Standard) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPoodle (Standard)Rat Terrier
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
GermanyUSA
Height (male)
18–24"10–18"
Height (female)
18–24"10–18"
Weight (male)
60–70 lbs10–25 lbs
Weight (female)
40–50 lbs10–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–18 years12–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)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.
Very High (5/5)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
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
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Poodle (Standard)

The Poodle (Standard) is an elegant, athletic, and exceptionally intelligent water dog — far more than its show-ring image suggests. Originally from Germany, this large non-sporting breed typically weighs 60–70 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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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Poodle (Standard) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Addison's disease
  • Eye disorders

Rat Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues