Rat Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Toy · Toy
Rat TerrierSmall
A friendly, lovable, alert American farm terrier — President Roosevelt's favorite, born to clear vermin.
Weight: 10–25 lbsLifespan: 12–18 years
Yorkshire TerrierToy
A feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Quick take
- • Rat Terrier is the larger breed at 10–25 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
- • The Rat Terrier typically lives longer (12–18 years).
- • The Rat Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Rat Terrier | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Toy |
Size | Small | Toy |
Origin | USA | England |
Height (male) | 10–18" | 7–8" |
Height (female) | 10–18" | 7–8" |
Weight (male) | 10–25 lbs | 7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 10–25 lbs | 7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–18 years | 11–15 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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
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 Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.
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Rat Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart issues
Yorkshire Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Tracheal collapse
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental disease