Brazilian Terrier — breed guide
Brazil's native terrier, descended from Jack Russells brought over in the 1800s — still a working farm ratter, usually kept in groups.
At a glance
- Group
- terrier
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 6–10 kg (13–22 lb)
- Life span
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short, smooth, fine tricolour coat
Living with a Brazilian Terrier
- Very high energy — built for work and long days out.
- Almost no grooming.
- Light shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Usually fine with a familiar dog; strange dogs need managing.
- Not a safe bet with cats — this is prey drive rather than a training problem.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Handles warm weather well.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Restless · Bold · Alert · Pack-happy
Health to watch
- Patellar luxation
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin allergies
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Brazilian Terrier good with kids?
Generally yes. Brazilian Terriers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Brazilian Terrier good with cats?
Usually not. This is prey drive rather than a training problem — a cat that runs can trigger it in a dog that is otherwise impeccably behaved.
How much exercise does a Brazilian Terrier need?
Hours — this breed needs a job or a long day out.
Can a Brazilian Terrier handle hot weather?
It copes well with warm days.
Leash Life keeps a Brazilian Terrier's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.