Rat Terrier vs. Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

3 / 5

Rat Terrier has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

4 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terrier has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Rat Terriers or Dandie Dinmont Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Rat Terrier is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Dandie Dinmont Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier dogs?

Affectionate
Inquisitive
Loving
Alert
Lively

Affectionate
Determined
Independent
Intelligent
Companionable
Funny
Loving
Lively

Shedding Level

Do Rat Terriers shed more than Dandie Dinmont Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Rat Terriers or Dandie Dinmont Terriers?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

1 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

3 / 5

The Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier dog breeds?

United States

Border of Scotland and England

Ancestry

What are the origins of Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeds?

Terrier, Whippet, Greyhound, Beagle

terrier, otterhound, dachshund

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeds first developed?

1800s

1700s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

Terrier (AKC:2013 & UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1886 & UKC)

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

A Rat Terrier can have a litter of 15-18 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Dandie Dinmont Terrier can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terriers are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

While the Rat Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

2 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Cushing's Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

Demodectic Mange
Epilepsy
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Color Dilution Alopecia
Teeth Issues

Glaucoma
Corneal Opacities
Portosystemic Shunt

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeds?

Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Dental Examination
Physical Examination
Skin Evaluation

Blood Test
Liver Ultrasound
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Rat Terriers and Dandie Dinmont Terriers compare?

5 / 5

Rat Terriers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

3 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Rat Terrier vs Dandie Dinmont Terrier social needs comparison

5 / 5

Rat Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

3 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terrier has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Rat Terrier vs Dandie Dinmont Terrier exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

The Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

1 / 5

Rat Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

3 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

1 / 5

The Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Rat Terriers or Dandie Dinmont Terriers bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Rat Terriers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

2 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terrier dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Territorial

Is the Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier a better guard dog?

5 / 5

Rat Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

4 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terrier dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Rat Terrier vs Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Rat Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier entertained?

Chase, Sniff, Bark, Trot, Fetch, Tug-of-war, Run, Playing, Chasing, Jumping, Running, Walking, Play, Walk, Play keep away

Walk, Play, Run

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

3 / 5

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Rat Terriers or Dandie Dinmont Terriers?

1 / 5

The Rat Terrier is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

3 / 5

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Rat Terriers vs Dandie Dinmont Terriers

4 / 5

Rat Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

2 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terrier has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

3 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Rat Terrier vs Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

5 / 5

Rat Terriers and Dandie Dinmont Terriers are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Rat Terriers or Dandie Dinmont Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Rat Terriers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

3 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers and Dandie Dinmont Terriers are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Rat Terrier or Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

4 / 5

Rat Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Dandie Dinmont Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier?

3 / 5

Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Rat Terriers and Dandie Dinmont Terriers compare?

3 / 5

Rat Terrier and Dandie Dinmont Terrier dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.