| Height | 10-13 inches (miniature), 13-18 inches (standard) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10-25 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–18+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Inquisitive / Lovable [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | United States [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 84 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Some Rat Terriers can get sufficient exercise for their needs through indoor playtime, but most will thrive with daily walks and a bit of tennis-ball-chasing and other play in a fenced enclosure. They tend to do well with other dogs their size or larger. Early socialization is a must, and puppy training classes are recommended. [1]
Grooming
The Rat Terrier's short, dense coat requires very little care to remain in good condition. A weekly once-over with a soft brush or hound glove will keep his coat healthy and glossy. A bath every month or so will likely be enough, depending on the dog's lifestyle. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Rat Terriers are generally very healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and cardiac and eye disorders. A conscientious breeder does genetic testing of all breeding stock with the aim of reducing the incidence of and ultimately eliminating health problems. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Rat Terrier in 2013. [1]
- It ranked No. 84 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 101 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “RT, Rat.” [1]
- The AKC lists United States as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Rat Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-18 years.
How big does a Rat Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 10-13 inches (miniature), 13-18 inches (standard) and weight 10-25 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Rat Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Rat Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.