Rat Terrier vs Rhodesian Ridgeback
Terrier · Small vs Hound · Large
Rat TerrierSmall
A friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin.
Weight: 10–25 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
Rhodesian RidgebackLarge
An affectionate, dignified, even-tempered African lion-hunter with a backward ridge of fur down its spine.
Weight: 85 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Quick take
- • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 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 | Rat Terrier | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Hound |
Size | Small | Large |
Origin | USA | Zimbabwe |
Height (male) | 10–18" | 25–27" |
Height (female) | 10–18" | 24–26" |
Weight (male) | 10–25 lbs | 85 lbs |
Weight (female) | 10–25 lbs | 70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 10–12 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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.
About the Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an affectionate, dignified, even-tempered African lion-hunter with a backward ridge of fur down its spine. Originally from Zimbabwe, this large hound breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, dignified, even-tempered.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues
Rhodesian Ridgeback health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Dermoid sinus
- • Bloat