The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier, up until 1999, was considered the short-legged version of the Rat Terrier. Nowadays these fun little dogs are a breed of their own! While they can still do their original job (ridding the property and home of vermin), they are also capable of competing in all manner of dog sports (obedience, agility, conformation, barn hunt…and even weight pull!), as well as being affectionate companions.
TRTs are an intelligent breed that enjoy doing most everything that their owners want to get involved in. These energetic terriers simply enjoy being a part of the action! When training them, it is best to take advantage of their curious nature and make learning into a game. When done right, these dogs are actually fairly easy to train! Furthermore, this is a versatile breed which should be physically and mentally able to compete in all sorts of different competitive venues.
Unlike many other terrier breeds, the Teddy tend to get along well with other dogs both in and outside of the home. Possessing a great sense of play but also gentleness, they also get along with children as well as the disabled. Many even get along with cats, as long as they were raised with them, and the cats are indoor-only. They do tend to be one-person dogs, for although they are good-natured (if not somewhat aloof) with most people, they will hold their owner in greatest esteem. Teddies are social animals that want to be next to their owners’ sides whenever possible, often accompanying them from room to room. 
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier can make himself at home in all sorts of circumstances, including apartments. They are quite adaptable (just don’t keep them locked up or tied outside all day). Keep in mind that if they are given a yard to run in, they will undoubtedly try to dig up burrowing animals and tree squirrels. This is a hunting terrier, after all, and they don’t make the best pets for those with perfect gardens. Their high prey drive also means that they will try to chase anything that moves, including outdoor cats. When done hunting, most are comfort-loving dogs who want nothing more than to curl up on the bed or under a blanket. Thankfully, most Teddies are active dogs with an off-switch.
The Teddy is fairly long-lived, averaging from 14-16 years. This means that this loyal dog will stay by their owner’s side for a very long time and any prospective owner should be able to commit to taking care of him for years to come. While grooming is easy and low-maintenance, he will still need regular exercise, vet care and mental stimulation for his whole life (like any dog). There isn’t a ton of information collected on this breed as far as health goes, but Patellar Luxation and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease are occasionally seen. Overall, however, most members of the breed are very healthy, provided they are given a good diet and kept from over-eating.
TRTs make great watch dogs as they will alert to people coming to the door (keep in mind this breed can be very vocal). Many can also be fairly territorial and protective of their home and property. Because they also tend to be more on the dominant side, they don’t do well with pushover owners – they need rules, structure, and leadership so their territorial and protective traits don’t get out of control.
