Rat Terrier vs Wire Fox 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
Wire Fox TerrierSmall
A confident, alert, gregarious fox-bolter — high-spirited British show ring star with a wiry white coat.
Weight: 17–19 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Rat Terrier is the larger breed at 10–25 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Wire Fox Terrier.
- • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Wire Fox Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Rat Terrier | Wire Fox Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | USA | England |
Height (male) | 10–18" | 15" |
Height (female) | 10–18" | 15" |
Weight (male) | 10–25 lbs | 17–19 lbs |
Weight (female) | 10–25 lbs | 15–17 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Very Low (1/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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 Wire Fox Terrier
The Wire Fox Terrier is a confident, alert, gregarious fox-bolter — high-spirited British show ring star with a wiry white coat. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, alert, gregarious.
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Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues
Wire Fox Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism