The modified PbO2 electrodes doped with rare earth compounds, i.e. Nd(NO3)3, Ce(NO3)3, Gd2O3 and Sm2O3, were prepared by electrodeposition method and the influences of rare earth modification on the performances of PbO2 electrodes were investigated. XRD, SEM and EDS were employed to research the crystal phase structure, surface morphology and element composition of the modified electrodes respectively. XRD analysis reveals that the crystal form of PbO2 electrodes is not changed and the crystal purity of β-PbO2 is improved. SEM results indicate that the morphology of the electrode surface have changed at different degrees. EDS results suggest that the added rare-earth may enter PbO2 surface layer. The phenol degradation experiments and strengthened lifetime tests show that the electrocatalytic activity and stability of the modified electrodes are better.