Rat Terrier vs Scottish Terrier
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Rat Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Scottish Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Rat Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Scottish Terrier: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Rat Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Scottish 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
Scottish Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Rat Terrier3/5
Scottish Terrier2/5
Good with Strangers
Rat Terrier5/5
Scottish Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
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
Scottish Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Scottie Cramp: Movement disorder
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain condition
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
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
Scottish Terrier
Pros
Loyal and protective
Low shedding
Good watchdog
Adaptable to various living spaces
Cons
Stubborn streak
High grooming needs
Can be territorial
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!
Scottish Terrier Fun Fact
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's beloved Scottie, Fala, became one of the most famous presidential pets.
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.
Scottish Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s, these tenacious terriers excelled at hunting badgers, foxes, and other burrowing prey in challenging terrain.
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.
Scottish Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Strong prey drive requires secure fencing. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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