Rat Terrier vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 28–38 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

TraitRat TerrierStaffordshire Bull Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
10–18"14–16"
Height (female)
10–18"14–16"
Weight (male)
10–25 lbs28–38 lbs
Weight (female)
10–25 lbs24–34 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years12–14 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)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a clever, brave, tenacious bull-and-terrier — UK's beloved 'Staffy', famously gentle with kids. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 28–38 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as clever, brave, tenacious.

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Rat Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Skin allergies
  • Patellar luxation