Rat Terrier vs Airedale Terrier
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Airedale Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Airedale Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Airedale Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Rat Terrier5/5
Airedale Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Airedale Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Airedale Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Rat Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Vision deterioration
Hip Issues: Joint complications
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Airedale Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Skin Allergies: Various dermal reactions
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid gland disorder
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
Rat Terrier
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Low maintenance grooming
Good with children
Highly trainable
Adaptable to various living situations
Cons
Can be vocal
High prey drive
May be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Can be territorial
Airedale Terrier
Pros
Intelligent and trainable
Excellent watchdog
Low shedding
Versatile working ability
Good with families
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
High exercise needs
May chase small animals
Strong prey drive
Rat Terrier Fun Fact
During the early 1900s, one Rat Terrier reportedly caught 2,501 rats in a single day on a farm!
Airedale Terrier Fun Fact
Airedales served as military messenger dogs in World War I and were among the first police dogs in Britain.
Heritage & Purpose
Rat Terrier
Origin:
Developed in America during the 1800s as farm dogs and vermin hunters. These skilled ratters protected grain stores and farmland from rodent infestations across rural areas.
Airedale Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire during the 1800s, these versatile dogs excelled in hunting otters and vermin while serving as capable farm dogs and family protectors.
Special Considerations
Rat Terrier
Regular dental care is crucial. Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Airedale Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed every 8-12 weeks. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
OccasionalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Rat Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Same Group
Rat Terrier vs Welsh Terrier →Similar Size
Rat Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Rat Terrier vs Schipperke →