Developed in the United States in the mid to late 1800s, the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a born hunter. Back in the day, their hunting expertise lied in keeping homes and farmsteads free of pests and vermin. These terriers are thought to be crosses between the Smooth Fox Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Beagle, Whippet, Italian Greyhound, and the now extinct White English Terrier.
Teddies have a strong, protective nature, well-developed pack instincts, and seemingly boundless energy. But there is much more to the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier than meets the eye. Learn more about this breed with these Teddy Roosevelt Fun Facts.
The Evolution of Teddies
Originally, Teddies were a variety of the Rat Terrier. They were not always known how they are today! The short-legged terriers were known as “Type B” and the long-legged as “Type A.” During the 1990s, breeders opted to divide them into two breeds, and the short-legged Type B terriers developed a bit of a cult following.
They were eventually named in honor of President Teddy Roosevelt, who was thought to have owned these ratters.
They Make for Great Companion Dogs
Teddies can make for great family dogs. They’re a lively, affectionate, and friendly breed that’s eager to please their owners. Teddies can do well with children if they’re raised around them, and tend to get along with cats and other dogs. They can adapt easily to almost any lifestyle, and are ultimately just happy to be around their humans.
Teddies’ Grooming Needs Are Low Maintenance
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a breed that is relatively easy to groom. Teddies are seasonal shedders and only require weekly brushing with either a soft brush or rubber curry mitt. Their smooth, short coats only need to be bathed occasionally to keep them looking fresh.
Their Energy Seems Limitless
Teddies are an extremely energetic, active breed. There are many exercise options for a Teddy. Activities can include backyard playtime, walks, hiking, retrieving balls, and indoor play.
Teddies can also excel at dog sports. Training for activities like agility, obedience, and AKC Rally can be a great way to give this breed some exercise.
Teddies Are Easy to Train
Teddy Roosevelt Terriers’ smart, intuitive nature coupled with their eager to please mentality makes them an easier breed to train. Teddies can find success in dog sports, especially those that offer bonding opportunities between the dog and their handler. Training a Teddy for a sport like agility or obedience not only provides a great outlet for exercise, but gives them the chance to showcase their intelligence.
Teddies thrive on praise. They’re eager to learn and show off their skills, especially if it means making their loved ones happy.
A Long Terrier Life
The bulk of Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are healthy dogs, especially those bred by responsible breeders. Trusted, experienced breeders will screen their stock for potential health issues, such as luxating patella and eye disease. Breeders and online resources can be helpful in keeping prospective and current owners informed on health concerns for the breed.
Healthy Teddies can live longer lives, often between 14 and 16 years.
Teddies Do Well as City or Country Dogs
Thanks to their smaller size, a Teddy Roosevelt Terrier can be happy in a home in the suburbs or an apartment in the city. As long as the breed gets plenty of exercise and attention from their owners, they can adapt just about anywhere. While Teddies are an extremely energetic breed, they find joy in play just as much as curling up on the couch with their loved ones.
A Newly AKC Recognized Breed
Teddy Roosevelt Terriers have been recorded in the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service (FSS) since August 2016 and entered the Miscellaneous Class in July 2019. They’re set to be officially recognized and eligible to start competing in AKC events on January 1, 2026. Teddies will be receiving this recognition alongside two other breeds: the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka and Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
Their Prey Drive Soldiers On
While some breeds’ prey drive can make them aggressive, obsessive, or escape prone, Teddies don’t tend to exhibit these less than desirable behaviors. They have an innate drive to chase or “hunt” mice or squirrels, but their minds are far less one track than other breeds with hunting instincts.
Teddies aren’t a breed with inherent flight risks, but it’s best to keep them on leash and keep their playtime within fenced areas.
Teddy Roosevelt Terriers are Rare
While there are many different types of terriers, Teddies remain a less common breed. These hunters are rare, and prospective owners seeking a puppy should seek out a responsible, knowledgeable breeder for guidance.
Three new dog breeds have received AKC breed recognition in 2026! Meet the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, and the Teddy Roosevelt Terrier.