Overview
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is the low-slung cousin of the Rat Terrier, developed on American farms from a mix of terrier and small hound stock to clear rats and hunt small game. The name is a tribute to the president and his terriers rather than a historical link. It has a smooth, pied coat, a muscular body and legs noticeably shorter than its height would suggest.
Temperament is bright and friendly. These are people-loving dogs, often clownish at home, and usually easy with other dogs. Outdoors the hunting side comes out and they will chase, dig and bark at anything that scurries.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day across two walks suits most adults, and they will happily take more. Despite the short legs they are athletic and fast over short distances, and they enjoy games of fetch and a good run in a secure area.
They are also quick-witted and benefit from a bit of training or a scent game on each walk. A bored ratting terrier will find its own entertainment, usually underground.
On the walk
- Prey drive: Rats, squirrels, rabbits and mice are all fair game. Expect a sudden dive into a hedge and keep the lead attached to a harness.
- Recall: Good until something small moves. Build it with high rewards and keep off-lead time to enclosed areas until proven.
- Other dogs: Friendly and playful with most. Being small, it can be hurt by rough play from big dogs, so pick companions with care.
- Digging: Given a hole, it will enlarge it. Watch for burrows and keep it off farmland edges where it could go to ground.
Tips for professional walkers
- Use a snug harness; a slim terrier neck slips a collar when it lunges at a squirrel.
- Bring a toy for fetch and a few treats for a quick scent game on each walk.
- A coat this short offers no protection, so pack a jacket for cold, wet days.
- Watch for frantic digging and move the dog on before it disappears down a hole.
What to ask the owner
- Does the dog have a strong chase instinct, and has it ever gone after cats or small pets?
- How reliable is recall, and where are you comfortable with the dog off the lead?
- Does it feel the cold, and is there a coat you want it wearing in winter?