Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
Quick Summary
Versatile, intelligent terriers ideal for active owners seeking a devoted companion. Best suited for those who can provide consistent training and exercise while appreciating their ratting heritage.
Contents
Weight Range
8-25 lbs
♂ Male: 8-25 lbs
♀ Female: 8-25 lbs
Height Range
20-38 inches
♂ Male: 8-15"
♀ Female: 8-15"
Life Expectancy
14-16 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Miscellaneous Class
Originally bred for Developed in the United States during the early 20th century as skilled ratters and farm dogs
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 8"-15" |
| Female Height | 8"-15" |
| Male Weight | 8-25 lbs |
| Female Weight | 8-25 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), vaccinations, and basic supplies. Monthly expenses cover quality food, preventive care, and routine veterinary visits. Consider potential health-related costs throughout lifespan.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Teddy Roosevelt Terriers combine intelligence with a playful, friendly demeanor. Their high energy levels are balanced by their eagerness to please and strong work ethic. Social and adaptable, they excel in various roles from family companion to working dog.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular human interaction and companionship. Generally good with other dogs but may need early socialization. Can tolerate short periods alone but thrive on family involvement.
Breed Overview
Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are compact, muscular dogs with distinctive short legs and a well-proportioned body. Their smooth, dense coat comes in various color combinations, typically with white as the predominant color. Alert ears, bright eyes, and a confident stance reflect their keen intelligence and spirited nature. These agile terriers move with purpose and grace, embodying both strength and athleticism.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Highly intelligent
- ✓ Great with families
- ✓ Excellent ratters
- ✓ Adaptable
- ✓ Low grooming needs
Cons
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ High prey drive
- ✗ May bark frequently
- ✗ Needs consistent exercise
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Playful, Versatile, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through a mix of walks, play sessions, and agility activities. High-intensity bursts of energy should be balanced with mental stimulation. Excellent candidates for dog sports and interactive games.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-2 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for portion control to prevent weight gain. Small kibble size recommended due to their compact mouth structure.
Feed 1-2 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on age, activity level, and weight. Include protein-rich foods suitable for active terriers. Monitor treats to prevent weight gain.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to various living spaces, from apartments to houses, provided they receive adequate exercise. Ideal in homes with secure yards. Tolerates different climates but prefers moderate temperatures.
Minimum space requirements are modest, but access to a secure yard is beneficial. Adapts well to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Thrives in environments that allow for both indoor comfort and outdoor activity.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
American farmers developed these terriers in the early 1900s from various short-legged rat terriers. Named after President Theodore Roosevelt due to his appreciation for similar ratting terriers, these dogs gained recognition for their versatile hunting and companionship abilities.
Historical Purpose
Developed in the United States during the early 20th century as skilled ratters and farm dogs. These terriers excelled at hunting vermin while maintaining a friendly family companion role.
Fun Fact
Despite their small size, these terriers can jump remarkably high and are known for their impressive agility.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular dental care essential due to predisposition to dental issues. Needs secure fencing due to prey drive. Weekly grooming maintains coat health.