Long Haired Rat Terrier: The Rare Coat Variant Every Dog
Discover the long haired Rat Terrier — a rare coat variant with unique grooming needs, temperament quirks, and care tips. Full breed profile for 2026.
What Is a Long Haired Rat Terrier?
If you've ever scrolled through Rat Terrier photos and spotted one with an unexpectedly silky, flowing coat, you've likely encountered the long haired Rat Terrier. This isn't a separate breed — it's a naturally occurring coat variant within the Rat Terrier breed, produced by a recessive gene that lengthens the typically short, smooth coat into something closer to a feathered, semi-long finish.
While the standard Rat Terrier is recognized for its sleek, low-maintenance coat, the long haired expression appears in a small percentage of litters and remains relatively uncommon in the general pet population. For prospective owners drawn to the Rat Terrier's intelligence and spirited personality but hoping for a softer, more textured coat, this variant offers a compelling — if harder-to-find — option.
Origin and History: From American Farmhand to Rare Coat Variant
The Rat Terrier's story begins in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. American farmers crossed European terriers — primarily Smooth Fox Terriers and Manchester Terriers — with breeds like the Whippet, Italian Greyhound, and Beagle to produce a fast, versatile farm dog capable of hunting rats, rabbits, and other vermin.
Origin Timeline
- 1890s–1920s: Rat Terriers developed across the American Midwest and South as multipurpose farm dogs. Theodore Roosevelt reportedly used them at the White House for pest control.
- 1930s–1950s: Widespread use on farms; the breed's name is popularly attributed to Roosevelt, though this is debated by historians.
- 1990s: The United Kennel Club (UKC) officially recognized the Rat Terrier in 1999, establishing a formal breed standard.
- 2013: The American Kennel Club (AKC) granted full recognition to the Rat Terrier in the Terrier Group, per AKC breed records.
- Present day: Long coated variants continue to appear in litters but are not accepted in conformation show rings under current AKC or UKC standards, which specify a short, smooth coat.
The long coat variant likely existed in the breed's gene pool from early on, since some of the foundation breeds (particularly certain terrier lines) carried recessive long-hair genes. However, because farm dogs were selected for working ability rather than coat type, the trait persisted quietly without being deliberately bred for or against.
Physical Characteristics and Measurements
Long haired Rat Terriers share the same body structure as their smooth-coated counterparts. The difference is exclusively in coat length and texture. Here's what to expect:
| Attribute | Miniature | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10–25 lb / 4.5–11.3 kg | 25–35 lb / 11.3–15.9 kg |
| Height at Withers | 12–18 in / 30–46 cm | 18–22 in / 46–56 cm |
| Coat Length | 1.5–3 in / 4–7.5 cm (long variant) | 1.5–3 in / 4–7.5 cm (long variant) |
| Coat Texture | Silky to slightly wavy, feathering on ears, legs, tail | Silky to slightly wavy, feathering on ears, legs, tail |
| Lifespan | 14–18 years | 12–16 years |
| Colors | Pearl, sable, chocolate, red, lemon, blue, black & tan, tri-color, piebald patterns | |
| Energy Level | High — 45–75 minutes of structured activity daily | |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate — brushing 3–4×/week, occasional trimming | |
The most distinctive features of the long haired variant include feathering along the ears, a plumed or semi-plumed tail, longer fur on the back of the forelegs and hindquarters, and a softer undercoat that the smooth variety lacks entirely. Some long coated Rat Terriers develop a slight wave to their fur, particularly behind the ears and on the chest.
Temperament: What Surprises New Owners
Most people expect terriers to be stubborn, independent, and difficult to train. The Rat Terrier defies that stereotype — and the long haired variant is no exception. Here's what catches first-time owners off guard:
- They're unusually biddable for a terrier. Rat Terriers rank among the most trainable terrier breeds. They respond eagerly to positive reinforcement methods — food rewards, play, and praise — and many excel in agility, rally obedience, and nose work competitions.
- Velcro-dog tendencies. Unlike the more aloof Jack Russell Terrier, Rat Terriers bond intensely with their people. Long haired variants raised in home environments often follow their owners room to room and struggle with extended isolation.
- Predatory drift is real. Despite their affectionate nature, Rat Terriers retain strong prey drive. Squirrels, rabbits, cats (unless raised together), and even small dogs can trigger a chase response. A securely fenced yard (minimum 5 ft / 1.5 m with no gaps at the base) is non-negotiable.
- Vocal but not excessive. They'll alert you to visitors and strange noises, but they are not typically nuisance barkers — unless under-stimulated. Boredom barking is the most common behavioral complaint.
- Sensitivity to tone. Harsh corrections shut them down. Force-free, reward-based training produces dramatically better results than any aversive technique. These dogs remember unfair treatment and may become hesitant or avoidant.
Special Care Requirements for the Long Coated Variant
The long coat introduces care needs that smooth-coated Rat Terrier owners simply don't face. Here's your care checklist:
Long Haired Rat Terrier Care Checklist
- Brushing: Use a slicker brush and metal comb 3–4 times per week to prevent matting behind the ears, in the armpits, and along the hindquarters. Pay extra attention after outdoor activity — burrs and foxtails tangle into longer fur easily.
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks with a mild, dog-specific shampoo (pH 6.5–7.5). Over-bathing strips natural oils and can cause dry, flaky skin — a known predisposition in the breed.
- Trimming: Sanitary trims every 6–8 weeks. Some owners opt for a light overall trim (leaving 1–1.5 in / 2.5–4 cm) to reduce maintenance. Professional grooming costs average $40–$65 per session depending on your region.
- Ear care: Longer ear feathering reduces airflow. Check and clean ears weekly with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner. Watch for redness, odor, or head shaking — signs of otitis externa.
- Paw pad trimming: Fur between the pads grows longer on this variant. Trim flush with the pad surface every 2–3 weeks to prevent slipping on hard floors.
- Exercise: Minimum 45 minutes of structured activity daily (walks, fetch, puzzle games, training sessions). Ideal: 60–75 minutes. Insufficient exercise leads to destructive chewing, digging, and hyperactivity indoors.
- Mental stimulation: Food puzzles (Kong Classic, Outward Hound Nina Ottosson puzzles), scent work games, and short training sessions (5–10 minutes, 2–3× daily) prevent boredom-driven behavior problems.
Breed-Specific Health Concerns
Rat Terriers are generally a robust breed, benefiting from a diverse gene pool. However, several conditions appear at higher rates in the breed. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment — this information is intended to help you ask informed questions at your next appointment.
| Condition | Description | Estimated Prevalence | Screening/Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap dislocates from its groove; graded I–IV. Common in small breeds. | Moderate — OFA reports ~6–9% affected in tested Rat Terriers | OFA patella evaluation; maintain lean body condition |
| Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease | Degeneration of the femoral head; typically appears at 4–12 months of age. | Low–moderate in breed | Hip X-rays if lameness appears; surgical treatment (FHO) often successful |
| Demodectic Mange | Overgrowth of Demodex mites causing patchy or generalized hair loss. Long coats may mask early signs. | Higher than average in Rat Terriers per Merck Veterinary Manual | Skin scraping for diagnosis; isoxazoline-class treatments (Bravecto, NexGard) effective |
| Allergic Dermatitis | Environmental or food allergies causing itching, ear infections, paw licking. More visible in long coats due to moisture trapping. | Common — estimated 10–15% of the breed | Allergy testing (IgE panel); elimination diet trials; Apoquel or Cytopoint for management |
| Cardiac Mitral Valve Disease | Progressive heart valve degeneration, typically in senior dogs (8+ years). | Low–moderate; more common in miniature size | Annual cardiac auscultation from age 7; echocardiogram if murmur detected |
Responsible breeders should provide OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHIP results for hips and patellas, and a recent cardiac evaluation. Ask to see documentation before committing to a puppy.
How Rare Is the Long Haired Rat Terrier, and How Much Does One Cost?
The long coat is a recessive trait, meaning both parents must carry the gene — and even then, only approximately 25% of puppies in such a litter will express the long coat (following Mendelian inheritance patterns). Many breeders do not intentionally breed for the long coat because it disqualifies dogs from AKC and UKC conformation events.
As of 2026, long haired Rat Terrier puppies remain uncommon. You'll most often find them in litters from breeders who carry long-coated lines or who specifically pair carrier dogs. Here's a realistic cost breakdown:
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Puppy purchase price (from health-tested breeder) | $800–$1,800 (long coat variants often at the lower end since they're pet-only) |
| First-year veterinary care (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip) | $600–$1,200 |
| Annual grooming (if professionally groomed every 6–8 weeks) | $300–$520 |
| High-quality food (AAFCO-complete, named protein source) | $300–$500/year |
| Pet insurance (accident + illness, $250 deductible) | $35–$60/month |
| Estimated first-year total | $2,400–$4,500+ |
- Breeder cannot provide OFA or equivalent health test results for both parents
- Multiple litters available simultaneously or year-round
- No questions asked about your home, lifestyle, or experience
- Puppies sold before 8 weeks of age
- No take-back clause in the contract (responsible breeders require dogs be returned to them if you can no longer keep them)
- Prices significantly below $500 for a "rare long haired" puppy — this often signals a backyard breeder or puppy mill marketing a coat fault as a premium feature
Adoption is also a valid path. Rat Terrier-specific rescues like Rat Terrier Rescue and RT Rescue occasionally take in long coated dogs. Adoption fees typically range from $200–$450 and often include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping.
How Does the Long Haired Rat Terrier Compare to Similar Breeds?
| Trait | Long Haired Rat Terrier | Smooth Coat Rat Terrier | Cesky Terrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coat Maintenance | Moderate (brushing 3–4×/week) | Low (weekly wipe-down) | High (clip/strip every 4–6 weeks) |
| Trainability | High | High | Moderate — more independent |
| Prey Drive | High | High | Moderate–High |
| Good with Children | Yes (supervised; sturdy but small) | Yes (supervised) | Yes (more reserved) |
| Apartment Suitability | Moderate (needs daily exercise outlet) | Moderate | Good (lower energy) |
| Shedding | Low–moderate (longer hair more visible) | Low (short hairs less noticeable) | Very low |
| Availability | Rare | Moderate | Rare |
The Cesky Terrier is often the closest comparison people reach for — both are long-coated terriers with moderate energy. However, the Cesky is calmer, more independent, and significantly harder to find (the AKC ranked it 185th out of 201 breeds in popularity). If you want a more energetic, people-oriented dog with terrier spark, the long haired Rat Terrier is the better fit.
Real Owner Insights: Living With a Long Haired Rat Terrier
Based on conversations with owners and breed-community discussions, here's what daily life actually looks like:
Energy management is the #1 adjustment. These dogs don't just need a walk — they need a job. Owners who succeed with the breed typically incorporate 10–15 minute training sessions into daily routines, use food puzzles for meals, and provide structured play (fetch, flirt pole, tug with rules). A tired Rat Terrier is a well-behaved Rat Terrier.
Separation anxiety is the most common challenge. Their strong bonding tendency means crating for 8+ hours while you work is often problematic. Owners who work full-time report success with doggy daycare (2–3 days/week), midday dog walkers, or a second dog as a companion — though introducing a second terrier requires careful temperament matching.
The coat is easier than expected — but not effortless. Most owners report that the long coat doesn't mat as badly as they feared, provided they brush consistently. The biggest annoyance is debris collection: grass seeds, burrs, and mud cling to the leg and ear feathering after outdoor adventures. A quick post-walk comb-out prevents most problems.
They're excellent for active first-time owners. While no terrier is truly "easy," the Rat Terrier's eagerness to please and food motivation make them more forgiving of beginner training mistakes than, say, a Jack Russell Terrier or a Cairn Terrier. If you're committed to daily exercise and positive reinforcement training, this breed is a strong match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the long haired Rat Terrier recognized by the AKC?
The Rat Terrier breed is AKC-recognized (since 2013), but the long coat is a disqualifying fault in the conformation show ring. Long coated Rat Terriers can participate in AKC performance events like agility, obedience, and rally. The UKC also recognizes the breed but similarly requires a smooth coat for conformation.
Can two smooth-coated Rat Terriers produce long haired puppies?
Yes — if both parents carry one copy of the recessive long-hair allele. Approximately 25% of their litter would be expected to have long coats. DNA testing (available through Embark or Wisdom Panel) can determine whether a smooth-coated dog carries the gene.
Do long haired Rat Terriers shed less?
Not necessarily. They shed a similar amount of hair, but the longer strands are more visible on furniture and clothing. Regular brushing reduces loose hair in the home. No dog is truly hypoallergenic, and the long haired Rat Terrier is not considered a good choice for people with dog allergies.
Are they good with cats?
It depends heavily on early socialization. Rat Terriers raised with cats from puppyhood often coexist peacefully, but their prey drive means introductions should always be supervised. Adult Rat Terriers with no cat history are a higher-risk placement and require slow, careful counter-conditioning.
What's the best diet for a long haired Rat Terrier?
Look for an AAFCO statement of "complete and balanced" for your dog's life stage. For coat health, diets with adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (from fish oil or flaxseed) support skin and fur quality. Most adult Rat Terriers thrive on ¾ to 1½ cups of quality kibble daily, split into two meals — adjust based on body condition score (BCS) and activity level. Your veterinarian can recommend a specific brand and portion based on your dog's weight and health status.
Robin Maitland
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
