Rat Terrier Weight & Growth Chart

Complete weight guide with growth charts for male and female Rat Terriers from puppy to adult.

Male Adult Weight
10–25 lbs
Female Adult Weight
8–22 lbs

Rat Terrier Weight Overview

Adult Rat Terriers typically weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, with males generally being larger than females. Males average 10–25 lbs while females typically weigh 8–22 lbs.

Weight can vary based on genetics, diet, exercise level, and whether the dog has been spayed or neutered. The growth chart below shows the typical weight progression from puppy to adult.

Growth Chart

When Does a Rat Terrier Stop Growing?

Rat Terriers typically reach their full adult height by 12 to 15 months and their full adult weight shortly after. Smaller individuals may continue to fill out and add muscle mass for several months after reaching full height.

Factors that influence when a Rat Terrier stops growing include genetics, nutrition, and spay/neuter timing. Dogs that are spayed or neutered very early may grow slightly taller due to delayed growth plate closure.

Is My Rat Terrier Overweight?

To determine if your Rat Terrier is at a healthy weight:

  • Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them
  • Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs
  • Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage

If your Rat Terrier is overweight, work with your veterinarian to develop a safe weight loss plan. Even a 10% reduction in body weight can significantly improve health outcomes.

Feeding Recommendation

Adult Rat Terriers typically need 0.5 to 0.5 cups of high-quality dry food per day, divided into two meals. Puppies need more frequent feedings — three to four times daily until six months, then twice daily. Always provide fresh water and adjust portions based on activity level and body condition.

Weight by Age Table

AgeMale (lbs)Female (lbs)
3 months 5.5–7.0 4.7–5.9
6 months 12.1–15.4 10.3–13.1
9 months 17.7–22.3 15.0–19.0
12 months 22.1–27.9 18.7–23.8

Frequently Asked Questions

Adult Rat Terrier weight varies by gender and individual build. Refer to the weight ranges above and consult your vet to determine your specific dog's ideal weight.
Most Rat Terriers reach their adult weight between 12 and 24 months, depending on their size category. Larger dogs take longer to reach full size.
You should be able to feel your Rat Terrier's ribs without pressing hard, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Your vet can provide a body condition score.
Feeding amounts depend on your puppy's age, current weight, and expected adult size. Follow the food manufacturer's guidelines and adjust based on your vet's recommendations.
If your Rat Terrier puppy isn't gaining weight as expected, consult your veterinarian. Common causes include parasites, inadequate nutrition, or underlying health conditions.