Rat Terrier vs Russell Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Small
Rat TerrierSmall
A friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin.
Weight: 10–25 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
Russell TerrierSmall
A lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty.
Weight: 9–15 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Rat Terrier is the larger breed at 10–25 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
- • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Rat Terrier sheds less.
- • The Rat Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Rat Terrier | Russell Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | USA | England |
Height (male) | 10–18" | 10–12" |
Height (female) | 10–18" | 10–12" |
Weight (male) | 10–25 lbs | 9–15 lbs |
Weight (female) | 10–25 lbs | 9–15 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Russell Terrier
The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.
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Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues
Russell Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness