Rat Terrier vs West Highland White 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
West Highland White TerrierSmall
A loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Quick take
- • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Rat Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Rat Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Rat Terrier | West Highland White Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | USA | Scotland |
Height (male) | 10–18" | 11" |
Height (female) | 10–18" | 10" |
Weight (male) | 10–25 lbs | 15–20 lbs |
Weight (female) | 10–25 lbs | 15–20 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 13–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | short | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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 West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, happy, entertaining.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues
West Highland White Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Skin allergies
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Liver disease