The Rat Terrier is a dynamic and versatile breed, renowned for its agility and hunting prowess. These small to medium-sized dogs typically weigh between 10 to 25 pounds, although their weight can vary depending on the specific type and their height. Generally, they stand about 10 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder. Originating from the United States, Rat Terriers come in various sizes, including miniature, standard, and decker lineage, each varying slightly in size and weight. Their compact build contributes to their speed and flexibility, making them excellent companions for various activities including hunting, agility courses, and family life.
Male Rat Terrier Weights & Heights by Age
The following chart contains the average weights and heights of male Rat Terrier from newborn to 3 years of age. Please note these are only averages. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your Rat Terriers’ growth.
| Age (Months) | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Height (inches) | Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-1 | 1-3 | 0.45-1.36 | 3-4 | 7.6-10.2 |
| 2 | 2-5 | 0.9-2.27 | 5-7 | 12.7-17.8 |
| 3 | 3-7 | 1.36-3.18 | 6-8 | 15.2-20.3 |
| 4 | 4-8 | 1.81-3.63 | 7-9 | 17.8-22.9 |
| 5 | 5-10 | 2.27-4.54 | 8-10 | 20.3-25.4 |
| 6 | 6-12 | 2.72-5.44 | 9-11 | 22.9-27.9 |
| 7 | 7-13 | 3.18-5.90 | 10-12 | 25.4-30.5 |
| 8 | 8-14 | 3.63-6.35 | 11-13 | 27.9-33.0 |
| 9 | 9-15 | 4.08-6.80 | 12-14 | 30.5-35.6 |
| 10 | 10-16 | 4.54-7.26 | 13-15 | 33.0-38.1 |
| 11 | 10-17 | 4.54-7.71 | 14-16 | 35.6-40.6 |
| 12 | 11-18 | 5.00-8.16 | 15-17 | 38.1-43.2 |
| 24 (2 years) | 12-25 | 5.44-11.34 | 15-18 | 38.1-45.7 |
| 36 (3 years) | 12-25 | 5.44-11.34 | 15-18 | 38.1-45.7 |
Female Rat Terrier Weights & Heights by Age
The following chart contains the average weights and heights of female Rat Terrier from newborn to 3 years of age. Please note these are only averages. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your Rat Terrier’s growth.
| Age (Months) | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Height (inches) | Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-1 | 1-2 | 0.45-0.9 | 3-4 | 7.6-10.2 |
| 2 | 1-4 | 0.45-1.81 | 5-6 | 12.7-15.2 |
| 3 | 2-5 | 0.9-2.27 | 6-7 | 15.2-17.8 |
| 4 | 3-6 | 1.36-2.72 | 7-8 | 17.8-20.3 |
| 5 | 3-7 | 1.36-3.18 | 7-9 | 17.8-22.9 |
| 6 | 4-8 | 1.81-3.63 | 8-10 | 20.3-25.4 |
| 7 | 5-9 | 2.27-4.08 | 9-11 | 22.9-27.9 |
| 8 | 5-10 | 2.27-4.54 | 9-11 | 22.9-27.9 |
| 9 | 6-11 | 2.72-5.00 | 10-12 | 25.4-30.5 |
| 10 | 6-12 | 2.72-5.44 | 10-13 | 25.4-33.0 |
| 11 | 7-13 | 3.18-5.90 | 11-14 | 27.9-35.6 |
| 12 | 7-14 | 3.18-6.35 | 12-15 | 30.5-38.1 |
| 24 (2 years) | 10-18 | 4.54-8.16 | 13-16 | 33.0-40.6 |
| 36 (3 years) | 10-18 | 4.54-8.16 | 13-16 | 33.0-40.6 |
These tables are based on general guidelines and can vary greatly depending on individual dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian or professional breeder for more specific information about your pet’s growth and development.
FAQs about a Rat Terrier Puppy’s Growth and Development
1. How fast will my Rat Terrier puppy grow?
Rat Terrier puppies grow rapidly in their first few months. You can expect most of their physical growth to be completed by 12 months, although they may continue to fill out in muscle and bulk until they are about two years old.
2. What should I feed my Rat Terrier puppy to ensure proper growth?
Feed your Rat Terrier puppy a high-quality dog food that’s specifically formulated for small breed puppies. Ensure it includes adequate levels of protein to support muscle growth, fats for energy, and essential nutrients for overall development.
3. How much should my Rat Terrier puppy eat daily?
The amount of food your Rat Terrier puppy needs depends on their age, size, and activity level. Generally, puppies require more calories per pound of body weight than adult dogs. Follow the feeding guidelines on your puppy food’s packaging and adjust based on your vet’s recommendations.
4. When will my Rat Terrier puppy reach full size?
Most Rat Terrier puppies reach their full height by about 12 months of age, but they may continue to gain weight and muscle until they are around 18 to 24 months old.
5. How can I tell if my Rat Terrier is overweight?
Check by feeling around your puppy’s ribs and spine; you should be able to feel the bones with a slight fat covering. They should have a visible waist when viewed from above. If you’re unsure, consult your vet for a health assessment.
6. What are the common health issues that could affect my Rat Terrier’s growth?
Rat Terriers can be prone to certain genetic conditions like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia which can affect growth. Regular vet check-ups can help catch these issues early.
7. How often should my Rat Terrier puppy visit the vet during their first year?
Your Rat Terrier puppy should visit the vet several times during their first year for vaccinations, routine check-ups, and to initiate a flea and tick prevention plan. These visits are crucial for monitoring your puppy’s health and growth.
8. What are the signs of a healthy Rat Terrier puppy growth?
Healthy growth in Rat Terrier puppies includes steady weight gain, clear eyes, good appetite, and active behavior. Their coat should be clean and shiny, indicating good nutrition.
9. How does neutering or spaying affect the growth of a Rat Terrier puppy?
Neutering or spaying can affect your Rat Terrier’s growth by slightly prolonging their growth period, as the removal of sex hormones can delay the closure of the growth plates in the bones.
10. Can exercise impact my Rat Terrier puppy’s growth?
Moderate exercise is crucial for healthy development, but excessive exercise can be harmful to your puppy’s developing joints and bones. Stick to short, regular walks and play sessions tailored to their age and size.
11. What growth-related issues should I watch for in my Rat Terrier puppy?
Watch for signs of limping, difficulty standing or jumping, and overall lethargy, as these can indicate growth-related issues such as joint problems.
12. How do I calculate the expected adult weight of my Rat Terrier puppy?
A rough estimate is to double their weight at four months old. However, this can vary widely depending on their birth size and overall health.
13. Is there a difference in growth rates between male and female Rat Terriers?
Generally, male Rat Terriers are slightly larger and may grow faster initially compared to females, but the overall growth duration is similar for both sexes.
14. How does genetics influence my Rat Terrier puppy’s growth?
Genetics play a significant role in determining the size and growth rate of your puppy. The size of their parents is a good indicator of their own adult size.
15. What are some developmental milestones I should expect in the first year?
Key milestones include teething, which begins around 3-6 months, and the transition from puppy to adult coat, which occurs around 6-12 months.
16. How should I transition from puppy food to adult food?
Transition your Rat Terrier from puppy to adult food gradually over a period of about one week to prevent digestive upset. Start by mixing increasing amounts of adult food with decreasing amounts of puppy food.
17. Can a Rat Terrier’s environment affect its growth?
Yes, factors such as diet, exercise, and even stress levels in the home can affect the growth and overall health of your Rat Terrier.
18. What type of training is appropriate for a growing Rat Terrier puppy?
Start with basic obedience training using positive reinforcement methods. Keep training sessions short and fun to accommodate your puppy’s attention span and physical capabilities.
19. How do seasonal changes affect my Rat Terrier puppy’s growth and development?
Seasonal changes might affect your puppy’s activity level and appetite. Ensure they have a comfortable and safe environment to sleep and play, regardless of weather conditions.
20. What should I do if I notice any abnormalities in my Rat Terrier puppy’s growth?
If you observe any irregularities in growth such as uneven limb length or rapid weight gain or loss, consult your veterinarian promptly to rule out any underlying health issues.