Once you’ve done your research, a Clan Clark Decker Line Rat Terrier may be … This breed needs to be taken on a daily long walk or jog. Rat terriers have been competing in the United Kennel Club events for over 15 years. The Decker dog has the same character as the Rat Terrier but tends to be a tad bit more aloof and independent. Toy Rat terrier is 10-12 inches with 5-10 pounds of weight. It should have at least 20-30 minutes a day, but would enjoy much more. The breed enjoys challenging games and outdoor romps. Their average life span is about 15 to 18 years. Generally, the Rat Terrier has a life expectancy of between 16 to 18 years, outliving some other breeds by a mile. Some believe that the Rat Terrier was given it’s name by President Theodore Roosevelt, who coined the phrase after he was given a black and tan dog named skip, but this was more likely a Manchester terrier. About 15-18 years By the time he was satisfied with the results of his breeding program, he had developed a dog that stood taller at the shoulder than other Rat terriers, and was heavier, weighing between 25 and 35 pounds. Miniature Rat terrier is 15 inches in height and has 10-15 pounds weight. Author John Sanford is a lover of the breed and often refers to Rat Terriers in his novels. Rat terriers generally are long lived. The NRTA has helped the Rat terrier become a recognized breed because they were the first to implement standards based on their original heritage. Please consider giving one of our ResQ Dogs a new life by adopting from ResQ today . There is a work in progress to take these larger dogs known as Decker Terriers out of the Standard Rat Terrier category and give them a name and a place of their own. Their average lifespan is 15 to 16 years. Many experts say that their life expectancy is just 13 to 16 years. They have a petite body frame which enables them to chase and hunt faster and effectively. Because the Rat Terrier was bred as a working and hunting dog, he has very high energy levels and exercise needs. Continue down this page to read more about this wonderful breed and our kennel located in the triad of NC. Popularity of Rat Terriers Throughout history, the Rat Terrier has fluctuated in their popularity. The Decker Rat Terrier (standard size) stands between 16 – 19 inches, 22-40 lbs. Rat Terriers often excel at dog agility trials. Rat Terrier ResQ takes in the unwanted Rat Terriers in our nation’s shelters. 13 - 18 years. He is gritty, feisty and tough yet never out of control, quick, alert, agile and fleet.