10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier
Source © Shutterstock
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a small to medium breed of dog that is popular as both a working dog and as a companion pet. This cute little dog is one that is recognized by many people, yet they know very little information about the breed. Here are ten fun and interesting facts about the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier that you probably did not know.
1. They Are Known by Several Names
The most common name by which this breed is known is the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier. However, they are also known by several other names. These include the Bench-legged Feist, the Short-legged Rat Terrier, and the Type B.
2. They Were Originally Working Dogs
Although the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is now commonly kept as a pet, they were originally kept as working dogs. Their most common roles involved working on farms as ratters, as utility dogs or as hunting dogs.
3. They Are a Similar Weight to a Newborn Baby
According to the United Kennel Club standards, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier can weigh up to 25 pounds. However, they often weigh as little as 8 pounds, which is similar to the weight of a newborn baby. In terms of their height, they are between eight and 15 inches. The build of this breed is described as low-set and muscular with a head that is proportionate to the body. As they are now bred for companion dogs as well as for working roles, the body shape of this breed may evolve over the next few years.
4. The First Breed Standards Were Recorded in 1996
The first breed standards were developed in 1996 by the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Club of America. This is a club which no longer exists. The breed had actually existed for many years prior to this but was often confused with other similar breeds, such as a Manchester Terrier or a Fox Terrier, or simply considered the same breed as a Rat Terrier.
5. It Was Accepted as a Separate Breed by the United Kennel Club in 1999
Although the breed standards were established in 1996, this dog was not recognized as a breed in its own right by the United Kennel Club until 1999. Prior to this, the Rat Terrier and the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier were classified as the same breed. Now, the United Kennel Club accepts applications for registration from ten different registries where the breed is otherwise classified as a Rat Terrier.
6. They Are Very Adaptable
This breed can adapt to almost any environment. They are a great pet due to their loyalty, loving nature, and good temperament. Their intelligence is perfect for working dogs and their agility makes them ideal for competitions. As they are a small dog, they are also happy living in smaller environments, such as apartments.
7. There Are Some Common Health Problems Associated with This Breed
Like with most breeds of dog, there are some health conditions to which this breed is more prone. Allergies and skin conditions are amongst the most common. Other conditions that are common for this breed include subluxating dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. A healthy Teddy Roosevelt Terrier can live for up to 16 years.
8. They Are Easy to Train
One of the reasons why people choose this breed of dog for either a working dog or as a pet is that they are very intelligent and easy to train. This means that housetraining is a simple process for those who are keeping them as a pet and learning new roles is easy for a dog that is set for a working life.
9. They Have a Natural Chasing Instinct
This breed of dog is closely related to the Rat Terrier as the Rat Terrier was used in the breeding process to create the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier. These types of dogs have a natural chasing instinct. If you are out and about with your Teddy Roosevelt Terrier and you see a small animal, such as a rabbit or a squirrel, its natural instinct is to chase after the creature. Similarly, they also have a natural instinct to dig.
10. They Come in Many Color Variations
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is available in many different color variations. Just a few of these include white, black, various shades of browns and reds, black and white, brown and white, and tricolor. The pattern of this breed can vary significantly from one dog to the next.
