Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
Also known as Type B Rat Terrier
United States, Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 20–38 cm
- Weight
- 4–11 kg
- Life expectancy
- 14–16 yrs
- Alert
- Friendly
- Sturdy
- Hardworking
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a short-legged, solidly built cousin of the Rat Terrier, bred in the United States as a farm vermin hunter. It is low to the ground and muscular, with a smooth coat that is usually white with patches of black, tan, red or other colours. Its shape makes it well suited to going after quarry in burrows and undergrowth.
Temperament
Teddies are usually alert, cheerful and devoted to their families, with a steady confidence rather than nervy excitability. Their hunting instinct is strong, so small pets such as rodents may never be safe with them, though many live happily with cats they were raised alongside.
Exercise
A good daily walk plus play and a chance to dig or sniff suits most. They enjoy earthdog trials, barn hunt games and other activities that use their natural skills.
Grooming
The short, dense coat needs only a weekly brush and sheds a little all year. Check nails, as low, heavy-set dogs may not wear them down naturally.
Care & wellbeing
Secure fencing that goes down into the ground helps stop escape tunnels. Reward-based training works well, as they are keen to please once motivated. Their short legs and solid build mean extra weight puts strain on joints and back, so keep them lean. A sudden painful or cloudy eye needs urgent veterinary care.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 7.5 kg adult- Water
- 300 ml–450 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 510 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Short-legged terriers were part of the Rat Terrier population in the United States for many decades and were once registered simply as a type within that breed. In the 1990s breeders who preferred the short-legged dogs separated them, and the UKC recognised the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier as its own breed in 1999. The name honours President Theodore Roosevelt, but any direct link between him and dogs of this type is anecdotal.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Primary lens luxation
- Skin allergies
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella check
- Primary lens luxation (PLL) DNA test
Not every Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 14–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier get?
Adult Teddy Roosevelt Terriers typically stand about 20–38 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 4–11 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Teddy Roosevelt Terriers live?
Typically 14–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Teddy Roosevelt Terriers easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Teddy Roosevelt Terriers shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Teddy Roosevelt Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, primary lens luxation, skin allergies. Not every Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Terriers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the UKC; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club