Teddy Roosevelt Terrier — breed guide
The short-legged American rat terrier variety — a serious vermin dog that is unusually cuddly off the clock.
At a glance
- Group
- terrier
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 4–12 kg (9–26 lb)
- Life span
- 14–16 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, smooth coat
Living with a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Almost no grooming.
- Light shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Vocal when there is a reason.
- 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.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Handles warm weather well.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Affectionate · Clever · Driven · Sturdy
Health to watch
- Patellar luxation
- Hip dysplasia
- Primary lens luxation
- Allergies
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier good with kids?
Generally yes. Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Teddy Roosevelt 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 Teddy Roosevelt Terrier need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier handle hot weather?
It copes well with warm days.
Leash Life keeps a Teddy Roosevelt 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.