Pet Wiki

Plummer Terrier

Also called Huddlesford Rat Pack terrier

Rare breedShort profile

From United Kingdom (England)1

At a glance the quick version

Heightup to 35.6 cm1
Sizesmall
intelligent and trainable
excellent nose
loves retrieving and water
1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short

A compact, tough working terrier with a bright, fiery red coat set off by white on the throat or neck.1

Coloursfiery red with white collarfiery red with white on throat (caped)1

Personality what they are like

A plucky, versatile little worker with a sharp nose and quick mind. It takes well to training, likes to retrieve and is happy in water.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. A working terrier bred for ratting and vermin control that needs plenty of exercise and jobs to do.1

Home where they are happiest

Suited to an active, rural or working home.1

The story where it all began

Author and terrier breeder Brian Plummer created the breed in England from the 1970s, blending Jack Russell, Beagle, Fell Terrier and Bull Terrier lines. It began as the Huddlesford Rat Pack and was later renamed in his honour.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was first known as the Huddlesford Rat Pack before taking its creator's name.1

  2. 2

    Dogs without the white collar or cape markings are called "shattered" by fanciers.1

  3. 3

    Many working owners actively prefer that it stays outside kennel club recognition.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after its creator, Brian Plummer, who began developing the Plummer Terrier in the 1960s as a working ratter and vermin hunter.1

Famous ones stars of the breed

Name ideas for your new friend

PipRascalBiscuitDigbyScoutMidgeTitchWhiskerPebbleSootyBadgerNettle

A day in the life told by a Plummer Terrier

Morning starts with a sniff under the garden gate, a hedgehog passed by last night! I give a quick bark to tell the world, then trot off to check the flowerpots. My human laughs when I emerge with a muddy nose and a proud look, holding a squeaky toy I found. After a splash in the paddling pool, we play fetch until I'm ready for a nap in the sun. Afternoon brings a patrol of the fence line, just in case a squirrel dares to visit. Supper time is my favourite, I sit very straight and wait for my bowl. Then I curl up on the sofa, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Plummer Terrier Club of Great Britain
Breed standard held by the breed club; not recognised by any major kennel club, which many working owners prefer1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Plummer Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Plummer Terrier, and at what times?

Feed your Plummer Terrier at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent morning and evening times work well. Check the food label for portion guidance and ask your vet for a tailored plan.3

What should a Plummer Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A balanced dog food is best for your Plummer Terrier. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onions, and garlic. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.4

How often should I bathe a Plummer Terrier?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Plummer Terrier need brushing?

Brush your Plummer Terrier weekly to keep its short coat healthy and reduce shedding. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Plummer Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 3 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 21 days.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Plummer Terrier need?

This active terrier needs plenty of daily exercise and mental jobs. Furry Diary suggests daily walks and play, and its working heritage means it thrives with tasks like retrieving.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Plummer Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, at least 2, 3 times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without inserting anything into the canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Plummer Terrier live?

Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations. They can give you the best guidance for your dog.

Is a Plummer Terrier good with children and other pets?

This plucky terrier is trainable and friendly, but individual temperaments vary. Early socialisation and supervision with children and other pets are important. Ask your breeder for specific advice.1

Can a Plummer Terrier be left alone?

This varies by the dog's personality and training. Working terriers may need company, so ask your breeder or vet for tailored advice on leaving your Plummer Terrier alone.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Wikipedia: Plummer Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields
  2. web.archive.org web.archive.org
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.