The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, formerly known as the short-legged Rat Terrier, is a small to middle sized American hunting dog, originating from the terrier breeds brought to America by English middle-class immigrants. It shares a common background with the Rat Terrier and it was only in 1999 that this dog was accepted as a distinct breed by the United Kennel Club.
It was named after President Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) who is thought to have taken a liking to the short-legged Rat Terrier breed after owning a terrier himself.
This dog breed makes for an excellent working dog, because it likes to hunt rats and can give a good chase to every living animal it catches within sight. The fact that it does not easily trust strangers also makes him a great watchdog, ready to give the alarm if someone unknown steps into his territory.
In terms of general appearance, this dog is rather low-height and muscular, its body length overcoming the body height in a ratio of 10:7 or 10:8. The head has a wedge shape, with a rather domed and wide skull, yet proportionate to the body. Eyes are big and almond-shaped, ears are tall and V-shaped and positioned at the edges of the head.
The body is compact and with a lot of muscle and the length of the front legs equals one-third of the dogs height. The backline is leveled, broad and strong, with a short loin and medium tuck up, with a large chest bone. The feet are short and compact, thus the former name of “short-legged Rat terrier”. Other trademarks of this dog are the docked or the natural bob tail and the short coat colored in white, with black, tan, lemon, apricot or chocolate markings.
The height is around 8-15 inches around the withers and the weight varies from 10 pounds to 25 pounds, depending on the height.
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a very intelligent and curious dog and its unlimited energy requires a very interactive owner, as this dog is very attached to its master and will follow him or her everywhere. It is a good family dog, but it can also be a one person-dog it is very protective of his owner and will usually be alert around strangers, but will not take action if it sees that the owner is comfortable.
It is also good with children, provided that they grow up together otherwise, it would not hesitate to punish the childs rough treatment by biting him back. It loves to hunt squirrels, rats, vermin or to chase around livestock.
It can adapt to apartment life, provided it is given the daily amount of long walking or jogging to use up its energy (at least 20-30 minutes a day). He loves a challenge and he would immerse himself in outdoor games in the park.
Although it has a few health issues, and it may hurt itself many times due to his hyperactive personality, when well taken care of, this breed may live up to 15 or 16 years. That and its daily frolics is what make the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier a perfect companion for the modern family it will give you laughter, joy and a fair amount of daily exercise!
