How Many Puppies Can a Rat Terrier Have?

U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt hunted with rat terriers, a breed of dog that earned its name by skillfully tracking rodents, reports the United Kennel Club.

  1. About the Breed

    • An American breed descended from three lines of English terriers, including the smooth fox terrier and the Manchester terrier, the rat terrier is recognized by the United Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club. TerrificPets.com reports that rat terriers have an average litter size of six puppies, with an average lifespan of 15 to 17 years.

    Size

    • A rat terrier falls into one of two classes: miniature and standard. The miniature variety includes dogs smaller than 13 inches, while dogs between 13 and 18 inches tall earn the standard label. Weight varies, but usually ranges between 8 to 25 pounds, TerrificPets.com states.

    Temperament

    • Intelligent, trainable dogs that make keen hunters as well as loyal companions, rat terriers tend to get along with children, cats and other dogs, according to the United Kennel Club.