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Science & Nature • Dog Breed

Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier is an American dog breed developed as an all-purpose farm dog for hunting rats and other vermin, as well as serving as a companion and watchdog.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Rat Terrier is an American dog breed developed as an all-purpose farm dog for hunting rats and other vermin, as well as serving as a companion and watchdog. It is a compact, short-coated terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club.

History

The Rat Terrier developed in the United States as a multipurpose farm dog. Sources describe it as being used for rat control, hunting small game, and general farm work, with a breed history tied to early 20th-century rural life.

Appearance

Rat Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs with a compact build and a short, smooth coat. Breed descriptions note two size varieties, miniature and standard, and a pied coat pattern is commonly referenced in breed standards.

Temperament and behaviour

The breed is commonly described as lively, intelligent, affectionate, and highly trainable. It is also noted for strong prey drive and alertness, which supports its historical role as a hunter and watchdog.

Recognition and breed status

The Rat Terrier is recognised by major kennel organisations including the AKC and UKC. Breed references also note that it is considered a relatively uncommon breed compared with many other companion dogs.

Key facts

  • The breed was developed in the United States as a working farm dog.
  • Rat Terriers were bred to hunt rats and other vermin, and to help with small-game hunting.
  • The breed comes in two size varieties, miniature and standard.
  • Rat Terriers have a short, smooth coat and are typically compact and athletic.
  • The breed is recognized by both the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club.
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Canadian context

Rat Terriers are present in Canada through companion-dog ownership and kennel-breed interest, but the breed is primarily an American development and is not especially associated with Canadian origin or history.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Rat Terrier?
A Rat Terrier is an American terrier breed developed for farm work, especially ratting, small-game hunting, and watchdog duties.
How big is a Rat Terrier?
Sources describe miniature and standard varieties; the breed is generally small to medium in size.
What is the Rat Terrier’s coat like?
It typically has a short, smooth coat, and breed descriptions often mention pied colouring.
Is the Rat Terrier a good companion dog?
Breed descriptions say Rat Terriers are affectionate, energetic, and people-oriented, which supports their role as companion dogs.
What was the Rat Terrier bred for?
It was bred mainly to control rats and other vermin on farms, while also helping with hunting and guarding.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rat_Terrier
    Supports: American origin; farm-dog and hunting-companion background; AKC and UKC recognition.
  2. American Kennel Club — https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/rat-terrier/
    Supports: Breed description, size varieties, temperament, and working-dog background.
  3. American Kennel Club — https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/RatTerrier.pdf
    Supports: Breed standard, general appearance, size, and purpose.
  4. Vetstreet — https://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/rat-terrier
    Supports: Breed history and development from terrier stock; working-dog role.
  5. American Kennel Club — https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/rat-terrier/
    Supports: Recognition and modern breed description.
  6. United Kennel Club — https://www.ukcdogs.com/
    Supports: Breed recognition by UKC.