A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a small, short-legged American terrier with a smooth coat and a close attachment to family. Include shared activities and opportunities to learn instead of relying on small size to simplify the routine.
An everyday routine
Plan a daily mix of walks, play, and rest. The amount that works for a particular dog depends on age, fitness, experience, and temperament.
Coat care to plan for
A relatively straightforward coat still needs routine checks, appropriate brushing, and attention to nails and teeth. Ask a groomer to demonstrate tools that suit this coat.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Teddy Roosevelt Terrier questions
What is the difference between a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier and a Rat Terrier?
They share a history and were once two types of the same breed. The Teddy was the short-legged version, sometimes called the Type B Rat Terrier. It is lower set, more muscular and heavier boned than the Rat Terrier, and it was recognized as a separate breed in 1999.
Why is it called a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier?
The name honors the 26th president. Roosevelt was fond of his family's hunting feist, which cleared vermin from the White House, and the short-legged dogs took his name in 1999. He is also thought to have owned ratters of this kind.
How big does a full-grown Teddy Roosevelt Terrier get?
Adults stand 8 to 14 inches tall and weigh 8 to 25 pounds. They are longer than they are tall, at a ratio of about 7 to 10. Teddies mature slowly and are not fully grown until 2 to 3 years old.
Do Teddy Roosevelt Terriers shed?
Yes, seasonally. The coat is short and dense, and the breed is low maintenance. Weekly brushing with a soft brush or rubber mitt and an occasional bath is the routine.
How long do Teddy Roosevelt Terriers live?
Life expectancy is 14 to 16 years. Teddies are a very healthy breed overall, and breeders are encouraged to check kneecaps and hearts and to test for primary lens luxation. Ask a breeder for copies of those results, and take health questions about your own dog to your vet.
Are Teddy Roosevelt Terriers good family dogs?
They are lively and affectionate with family, and good with children, cats and other dogs when raised with them. They can attach most closely to one person and tend to be reserved with strangers. They will announce an unfamiliar person or animal out loud.
Can a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier live in an apartment?
Yes, with enough to do. The breed is a good pick for apartment dwellers, and Teddies adapt to a farm or a city apartment. They are energetic, so plan on several walks a day plus play, tricks or a dog sport.
Are Teddy Roosevelt Terriers easy to train?
Generally, yes. Teddies are intelligent, intuitive and eager to please, and they train easily without a heavy hand. They thrive on praise and on being with people, and they do not do well kenneled or kept as outside-only dogs.
