Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, also known as the American Rat Terrier, is a small-sized breed from the United States. This breed is known for being clever, loving, and fearless.

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Breed overview

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers were originally developed in the United States in the early 1900s. Bred for ratting and hunting, they are known for their keen sense of smell and hunting instincts. The breed is highly intelligent and trains quickly. They are extremely loyal and make excellent companions for active families.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are small in size, weighing between 10-25 pounds and standing at 8-15 inches tall. They have short, smooth coats that can come in a range of colors including black, blue, chocolate, tan, and white. These dogs are generally healthy and have a lifespan of about 12-15 years.

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What To Expect When Caring For a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

Training

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are highly intelligent dogs that train quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Early socialization and training is important to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved adults. They are naturally curious and enjoy learning new things, making them good candidates for training in agility, obedience, and other dog sports.

Exercise

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are a lively and active breed that requires regular exercise. Daily walks and playtime in a fenced yard can help keep them healthy and happy. They also enjoy participating in activities such as agility and obedience training.

Due to their high energy levels, they may not be suitable for people with sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Nutrition

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers require a well-balanced diet that is appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. A diet that is high in protein and low in fat is recommended to keep them lean and healthy. Their meals should also include a variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains to provide them with the necessary vitamins and nutrients.

It is important to avoid feeding them table scraps or foods that are high in fat or sugar, as this can cause weight gain and other health issues.

Health

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are a healthy breed with a lifespan of about 12-15 years. However, they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and allergies. It's important to have regular vet check-ups and to provide them with a healthy diet.

Grooming

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. However, brushing once or twice a week is recommended to maintain a healthy coat and remove any loose hair. Bathing should be done occasionally, as over-bathing can cause their skin to dry out.

Regular nail trimming and teeth cleaning is also important to maintain their overall hygiene.

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Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Traits & Characteristics

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are a lively and active breed, making them an excellent choice for people with active lifestyles. They are highly adaptable and can do well in small apartments as long as they get enough exercise. They are known for being loyal and affectionate to their families, but can be cautious around strangers. This breed requires a moderate amount of grooming, with regular brushing of their short coat.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are a hardy breed, and known for their good health. However, like all breeds they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and allergies. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet can help in maintaining their overall health.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are known to be fairly affectionate with their humans, but may need some extra socialization to develop their skills at expressing their love. They are devoted, loyal, and enjoy snuggle time on the couch with their family. However, they may not always show their affection as demonstratively as some other breeds.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be good with children, particularly those they have grown up with or been well-socialized with. As terriers, they can be very energetic and playful, which can be a good fit for kids with an active lifestyle. However, they may not always tolerate rough play or grabby hands, so they should be supervised around young children.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be friendly with other dogs, but may have a high prey drive that can get them into trouble with smaller pets. Some may be dominant with other dogs and may need early socialization and training to get along with other canines. It's best to introduce them to new dogs gradually while keeping an eye on their behavior.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be reserved with strangers, but they are generally friendly and not aggressive towards them. They may bark to alert their family of a new person, but with proper socialization, they can learn to trust new people quickly.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are very playful and enjoy a good game of fetch or tug-of-war. They are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. They're also great at learning new tricks and agility exercises that can keep them entertained for hours.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have a high level of alertness and can be good watchdogs. They will bark to alert their family to any potential threats, and they can be trained to recognize and react appropriately to different sounds or signals. They're also intelligent and can learn to perform tasks that require a high level of focus and attention to detail.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are adaptable dogs that can do well in a variety of living situations. They can be happy in an apartment or a larger home, as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. They also do well with changes in routine, but may require extra socialization to new people and situations.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers don't shed much thanks to their short, wiry coat. They do need regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and looking good, but they're a good choice for people who have allergies or just want to keep the house clean and tidy.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have a short, low-maintenance coat that only requires weekly brushing to keep it healthy and clean. They will need occasional bathing, but their coat is water-resistant which helps them stay clean longer. They also need regular nail trimming, ear cleaning and dental care to stay healthy and happy.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are not known for their drooling. They have a dry mouth and are not prone to excessive salivation. This makes them an ideal choice for people who are sensitive to slobber and want a clean breed.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 8-25 pounds and standing between 8-15 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a compact, muscular build that makes them agile and sturdy. They are a good choice for people who want a small breed that is still energetic and playful.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are very active and require daily exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy long walks, hikes, and playtime in a fenced-in yard. They do well with regular trips to the dog park or structured activities like agility training. If they don't get enough exercise, they can become destructive or develop behavioral problems.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy long walks, hikes, and playtime in a fenced-in yard. They do well with regular trips to the dog park or structured activities like agility training. If they don't get enough exercise, they can become destructive or develop problem behaviors.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers were originally bred for hunting small prey, such as rodents and rabbits. They still have a strong prey drive and can be trained to do a variety of jobs, from hunting to obedience work. They're also good at agility and other structured activities that require focus and discipline.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have a strong hunting instinct and are excellent at hunting small prey. They have a powerful sense of smell and are good at tracking down rodents and other small animals. Owners should always supervise their dog when they are outside to prevent them from chasing after wildlife.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are high-energy dogs that have a lot of physical stamina and endurance. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They're great for people who have an active lifestyle and want a dog that can keep up with their adventures.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are generally healthy dogs with few breed-specific health concerns. However, they may be prone to certain health issues such as allergies, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can help keep them healthy throughout their lives.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be prone to obesity if they are overfed or don't get enough exercise. Owners should monitor their dog's weight and feed them a healthy, well-balanced diet. They should also provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation to keep their dog healthy and happy.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are not well-equipped for cold weather due to their short, wiry coat. They may need extra insulation or layers during colder months, and should be kept indoors during extreme temperatures. Owners should monitor their dog for signs of shivering or discomfort, and provide them with a warm, cozy environment to protect them from the cold.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can tolerate hot weather fairly well, but owners should be aware of signs of overheating, such as panting, drooling, and lethargy. They should always have access to plenty of fresh water and shade, and should be exercised during cooler times of the day. Owners should also be careful not to leave their dog in a hot car or in direct sunlight.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can do well in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. This breed is small enough to live comfortably in a smaller space, and their short, low-maintenance coat makes them ideal for indoor living. They can be trained to use a litter box or pee pad, which can be helpful for apartment living.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can have a tendency towards wanderlust and may take off after small animals or interesting scents. They need a securely fenced-in yard and should always be on a leash during walks. Early training and socialization can help reduce their desire to roam.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be somewhat sensitive and may not respond well to harsh training methods or criticism. As with all dogs, positive reinforcement and gentle training methods are always best. They may have a tendency towards anxiety or fearfulness, so socialization and training during puppyhood is important.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can tolerate being alone for short periods of time, but they do require regular exercise and socialization with their family. They can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods, so owners should be prepared to spend time with their dog and give them plenty of attention and exercise.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are generally not excessive barkers, but they will bark to alert their family to any potential threats or new visitors. They can be trained to bark less with proper socialization and positive reinforcement training methods.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are intelligent dogs that need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy learning new tricks or participating in structured activities like agility or obedience training. They need a lot of mental stimulation, particularly as puppies, as they can become bored easily and develop problem behaviors.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be a good choice for novice dog owners who are willing to put in the time and effort to train and socialize them. They're intelligent and eager to please, which makes them fairly easy to train. However, they do require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, so novice owners should be prepared to spend time playing and exercising with their dog.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them fairly easy to train. However, as with many terriers, they can be stubborn and independent-minded, so training needs to be firm but positive. They respond well to treats and praise and enjoy learning new tricks and commands.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are known to be fairly affectionate with their humans, but may need some extra socialization to develop their skills at expressing their love. They are devoted, loyal, and enjoy snuggle time on the couch with their family. However, they may not always show their affection as demonstratively as some other breeds.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be good with children, particularly those they have grown up with or been well-socialized with. As terriers, they can be very energetic and playful, which can be a good fit for kids with an active lifestyle. However, they may not always tolerate rough play or grabby hands, so they should be supervised around young children.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be friendly with other dogs, but may have a high prey drive that can get them into trouble with smaller pets. Some may be dominant with other dogs and may need early socialization and training to get along with other canines. It's best to introduce them to new dogs gradually while keeping an eye on their behavior.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be reserved with strangers, but they are generally friendly and not aggressive towards them. They may bark to alert their family of a new person, but with proper socialization, they can learn to trust new people quickly.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are very playful and enjoy a good game of fetch or tug-of-war. They are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. They're also great at learning new tricks and agility exercises that can keep them entertained for hours.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have a high level of alertness and can be good watchdogs. They will bark to alert their family to any potential threats, and they can be trained to recognize and react appropriately to different sounds or signals. They're also intelligent and can learn to perform tasks that require a high level of focus and attention to detail.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are adaptable dogs that can do well in a variety of living situations. They can be happy in an apartment or a larger home, as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. They also do well with changes in routine, but may require extra socialization to new people and situations.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers don't shed much thanks to their short, wiry coat. They do need regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and looking good, but they're a good choice for people who have allergies or just want to keep the house clean and tidy.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have a short, low-maintenance coat that only requires weekly brushing to keep it healthy and clean. They will need occasional bathing, but their coat is water-resistant which helps them stay clean longer. They also need regular nail trimming, ear cleaning and dental care to stay healthy and happy.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are not known for their drooling. They have a dry mouth and are not prone to excessive salivation. This makes them an ideal choice for people who are sensitive to slobber and want a clean breed.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 8-25 pounds and standing between 8-15 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a compact, muscular build that makes them agile and sturdy. They are a good choice for people who want a small breed that is still energetic and playful.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are very active and require daily exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy long walks, hikes, and playtime in a fenced-in yard. They do well with regular trips to the dog park or structured activities like agility training. If they don't get enough exercise, they can become destructive or develop behavioral problems.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers require daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy long walks, hikes, and playtime in a fenced-in yard. They do well with regular trips to the dog park or structured activities like agility training. If they don't get enough exercise, they can become destructive or develop problem behaviors.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers were originally bred for hunting small prey, such as rodents and rabbits. They still have a strong prey drive and can be trained to do a variety of jobs, from hunting to obedience work. They're also good at agility and other structured activities that require focus and discipline.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have a strong hunting instinct and are excellent at hunting small prey. They have a powerful sense of smell and are good at tracking down rodents and other small animals. Owners should always supervise their dog when they are outside to prevent them from chasing after wildlife.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are high-energy dogs that have a lot of physical stamina and endurance. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They're great for people who have an active lifestyle and want a dog that can keep up with their adventures.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are generally healthy dogs with few breed-specific health concerns. However, they may be prone to certain health issues such as allergies, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can help keep them healthy throughout their lives.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be prone to obesity if they are overfed or don't get enough exercise. Owners should monitor their dog's weight and feed them a healthy, well-balanced diet. They should also provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation to keep their dog healthy and happy.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are not well-equipped for cold weather due to their short, wiry coat. They may need extra insulation or layers during colder months, and should be kept indoors during extreme temperatures. Owners should monitor their dog for signs of shivering or discomfort, and provide them with a warm, cozy environment to protect them from the cold.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can tolerate hot weather fairly well, but owners should be aware of signs of overheating, such as panting, drooling, and lethargy. They should always have access to plenty of fresh water and shade, and should be exercised during cooler times of the day. Owners should also be careful not to leave their dog in a hot car or in direct sunlight.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can do well in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. This breed is small enough to live comfortably in a smaller space, and their short, low-maintenance coat makes them ideal for indoor living. They can be trained to use a litter box or pee pad, which can be helpful for apartment living.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can have a tendency towards wanderlust and may take off after small animals or interesting scents. They need a securely fenced-in yard and should always be on a leash during walks. Early training and socialization can help reduce their desire to roam.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be somewhat sensitive and may not respond well to harsh training methods or criticism. As with all dogs, positive reinforcement and gentle training methods are always best. They may have a tendency towards anxiety or fearfulness, so socialization and training during puppyhood is important.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can tolerate being alone for short periods of time, but they do require regular exercise and socialization with their family. They can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods, so owners should be prepared to spend time with their dog and give them plenty of attention and exercise.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are generally not excessive barkers, but they will bark to alert their family to any potential threats or new visitors. They can be trained to bark less with proper socialization and positive reinforcement training methods.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are intelligent dogs that need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy learning new tricks or participating in structured activities like agility or obedience training. They need a lot of mental stimulation, particularly as puppies, as they can become bored easily and develop problem behaviors.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers can be a good choice for novice dog owners who are willing to put in the time and effort to train and socialize them. They're intelligent and eager to please, which makes them fairly easy to train. However, they do require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, so novice owners should be prepared to spend time playing and exercising with their dog.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them fairly easy to train. However, as with many terriers, they can be stubborn and independent-minded, so training needs to be firm but positive. They respond well to treats and praise and enjoy learning new tricks and commands.

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History of the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are a relatively new breed, named after President Theodore Roosevelt who was known for his love of terriers. This breed was developed in the early 1900s in the United States, and is a cross between the Feist, the Jack Russell Terrier, and the Chihuahua. The breed was originally used for ratting and hunting small game such as squirrels and rabbits.

The breed has evolved over time to become a popular companion dog, known for their intelligence and adaptability. However, they still retain their hunting instincts and can be avid hunters if given the opportunity.

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Puppies

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier puppies are born with long tails. However, it's standard to dock them within the first week of the birth.

The puppies are born with closed ears which will open up within a week. They are born with closed eyes too, which will open up after two weeks.