Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Puppies for Sale

Recognized by: AKC, UKC

About the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a short-legged, muscular American farm terrier bred to hunt vermin and serve as an all-around ratter and companion. Lower-set and more heavily built than the leggier Rat Terrier from which it was distinguished, it combines terrier tenacity with an affectionate, people-oriented disposition. Intelligent and versatile, it excels at rodent control, dog sports, and family life, showing loyalty and a strong desire to be near its owner. Alert and lively, it retains genuine prey drive and a watchful nature, but its manageable size, low-maintenance coat, and trainable temperament make it a capable and devoted companion for active households.

Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.

Typical tendencies

Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.

Exercise needsTypical
Energy levelHigher than most
TrainabilityHigher than most
Grooming effortMinimal
SheddingTypical
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitHigher than most
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsTypical
First-time ownersTypical

5 active listings

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Where this breed shines

  • Affectionate, loyal, and people-oriented
  • Intelligent and trainable for a terrier
  • Low-maintenance coat and adaptable size

Things to consider

  • Retains prey drive; caution around small pets
  • Can be a watchful barker
  • Needs regular activity to prevent boredom

History

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier developed from the same lineage of American working feists and ratting terriers as the Rat Terrier, with the short-legged type separated and named in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt, an avid outdoorsman associated with such dogs. It was recognized as a distinct breed by the United Kennel Club in the twentieth century. It remains an uncommon but well-regarded working and companion terrier in the United States.

Temperament

Affectionate, intelligent, and lively, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is devoted to its family and thrives on close companionship. It is alert and makes a good watchdog, yet is more people-focused and trainable than many terriers. It retains prey drive and energy, benefiting from regular activity, play, and mental stimulation.

Questions to ask a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier breeder

  • Are the parents tested for luxating patella and eye disorders?
  • Is there any history of primary lens luxation in the line?
  • What is the temperament and energy level of the parents?
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Health considerations to discuss

Luxating patella. Kneecap instability occurs in small terriers; ask about screening.

Primary lens luxation. Seen in terrier breeds; a DNA test is available.

Allergies. Some individuals develop skin or environmental allergies.

Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: United Kennel Club · American Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial

Questions worth asking about any Teddy Roosevelt Terrier litter

  • Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
  • What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
  • How was the litter raised and socialized?
  • What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
  • What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Read the full buyer safety checklist →

Frequently asked questions

How do I buy a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier puppy on PuppyList?

Browse the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.

How much do Teddy Roosevelt Terrier puppies cost?

Listed puppies are priced at $700. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.

How can I tell if a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier breeder is trustworthy?

Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.