How to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Wisconsin

If you’re fascinated by dogs that can outsmart you, you’ll never have a dull day with a rat terrier. Their intelligence, lightning-fast reactions, and comedic timing will keep you guessing (and laughing) constantly. These dogs can fit into almost any lifestyle as long as you’re willing to keep up with their curious minds.

Anyone researching how to adopt a rat terrier in Wisconsin should be prepared to handle a dog who needs daily exercise, consistent training, and creative outlets for all that energy. That’s not to say they’re difficult dogs. Give them the love, attention, and mental stimulation they need, and they’ll settle beautifully and show just how loving and obedient they can be.

Besides the excitement of bringing home a dog, you get the added satisfaction of knowing you’ve changed the course of their life for the better when you choose to adopt rather than buy from a breeder.

Rat Terrier Adoption in Wisconsin

Most organizations list available dogs on their websites or on pet adoption platforms. Start by searching for rat terriers or rat terrier mixes at animal shelters and rescue groups in Wisconsin. Many rat terriers are listed as “terrier mix,” so read the descriptions and look at photos rather than just relying on breed filters.

Once you spot a dog you’re interested in, you’ll have to fill out an adoption form that asks about your schedule, work hours, yard or outdoor access, and previous dog experience. The rescues want to make sure you understand what you’re signing up for and that the dog will have a stable, happy home.

Next, expect a phone call where you can ask questions like: How does the dog handle strangers? Do they guard toys or food? Have they shown prey drive around small animals? Ratties were originally bred as farm dogs meant for hunting rats, so many still have hunting instincts. If you have chickens or free-roaming cats, the rescue needs that information before approving the match.

Many shelters then invite interested adopters to meet the dog in person. Make sure you greet the pup properly and observe how they react to you. Some ratties can be selective about which people they warm up to, so don’t rush the process. Arrange multiple meetings if the dog is shy or cautious.

If it’s a good match, the rescue staff may want to visit your home to check for obvious safety issues. Again, feel free to ask questions and take note of their suggestions. Once everyone’s on the same page, you’ll sign an adoption contract, make the payment, and prepare to take your new dog home.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Wisconsin? You’ll likely pay under $300 to adopt a rat terrier in Wisconsin, though puppies or highly in-demand dogs may be priced a bit higher. Even then, it’ll be significantly less than what you’d pay a breeder. Plus, your money will help support the rescue’s veterinary care, food, transportation, and the work they do to save more animals. You’ll have to budget in a little extra for initial supplies, vet visits, and any unexpected costs, and be financially ready before you start looking for a rattie, since the adoption timeframe depends entirely on when a suitable dog becomes available.

How Should I Train a Rat Terrier? One of the first things you need to do is establish routines and boundaries. Without it, your rattie will create their own rules (which you may not like). On the first day, decide where they’ll eat, where they’ll nap, and which areas are off-limits. These dogs pay attention to what works, what doesn’t, and how they can bend the rules, so you have to be consistent. Trick training is one of the easiest ways to help your rat terrier focus, especially during the first few weeks when everything in their world feels new. Basic tricks, such as spinning, speaking, and rolling over, will teach them to listen, follow directions, and use their energy constructively. Leash manners are also important, since your rat terrier will want to chase every moving thing in sight whenever you go for walks. Dog Academy has an online training course on loose-leash walking that focuses on building impulse control and helping dogs learn to follow your lead instead of reacting to every distraction. Dog Training with Dog Academy

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Find the Right Rat Terrier in Wisconsin for You

If you’re patient, willing to fill out a few forms, and open to meeting a handful of dogs, Wisconsin has plenty of rat terriers and rattie mixes waiting in shelters and rescues.

Be honest with the staff about your routines, rather than describing your dream lifestyle where you hike every morning and have endless hours to dedicate to exercise. You’ll get a better match that way.