How to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Colorado

Rat terriers are the best combination of wits and willingness. They might look small, but they live big lives full of energy and loyalty. Their love language involves shadow guard behavior and generous cuddles. If you’re up for hours of fetch and tug-of-war, these pocket rockets will easily become your new best friend.

As playful buddies with a natural hunting instinct, ratties enjoy sniff-and-explore activities in wide-open spaces, which makes Colorado their dreamland. The weather doesn’t become bothersome, either. With good hydration and plenty of shaded spots, your pup will live a comfortable life in the state.

Adopting a rat terrier is the best way to find a furry friend who matches your pace. In this guide, we’ll tell you how to adopt a rat terrier in Colorado, and what expenses to expect. Let’s bring your squirrel chaser home!

Rat Terrier Adoption in Colorado

Coloradans love smart dogs who enjoy an outdoorsy lifestyle. This is why when a rat terrier shows up in an adoption center, many interested dog lovers want to get their hands on them. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, start your search as soon as you’re sure they are the right dog for you.

Many rescues and shelters are active members of breed-specific Colorado-based social media groups. They share photos and descriptions of their available dogs online to connect with the right families. Join these groups for regular updates, and keep your eyes peeled for a healthy and active rattie. Simultaneously, you can also ask your vet for reliable recommendations.

When you have a few options, check their websites to learn more about their policies and pricing. It’s also a good idea to read reviews before making your final decision. If you’re still unsure, visit the facility in person to see if it’s well-maintained and has an educated staff.

The next step is to submit an application form with details about your lifestyle, expectations for the breed, and experience with small dogs. You might also be called for an interview to discuss more details about your family, living arrangements, and interests. This screening process helps the staff place their dog in the most suitable home.

If everything goes well, you can meet the dog to pick up on their social skills. This will tell you how much training they might need to become well-adjusted companions. Before you take them home, request a physical examination to rule out skin issues, mite infestations, and dental problems. Don’t forget to collect all their documents.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Colorado? Adopting a rat terrier in Colorado can set you back $150 to $300. Rescues and shelters charge a higher fee for younger ratties who need more attention and care during their stay. Your location and the dog’s background can affect the price, too. Most adoption centers include the cost of neutering or spaying, microchipping, and vaccinations in the fee. Everything else is for you to take care of. Keep a yearly budget of $500 to $1,500 to pay for your dog’s training, vet visits, and essential supplies. Emergencies and treatment for serious conditions, like valvular disease, will cost extra.

How Should I Train a Rat Terrier? Training a rat terrier requires patience and consistency. These intelligent canines love structured living, as it makes them feel safe. Start by setting a routine with clear timings for naps, workouts, and meals. Establish boundaries, like limiting access to certain rooms, so they know what’s not okay to do. When the weather is pleasant, plan exciting agility tasks, like jumping through hoops or weaving through poles. To satisfy their natural prey drive, you can also incorporate a few minutes of barn hunt in your training. Keep the sessions short and enjoyable, so they don’t lose interest. If they make you happy, reward them with treats to show your love. Although generally easy to train, rat terriers can show slight resistance when it comes to potty training. Their stubbornness makes it worse. If you’re adopting a puppy, you’ll need diapers to prevent accidents indoors. For grown-ups, take them out to the same spot every two hours and wait for them to go. Dog Academy’s Housetraining online course has some great tips, too. Dog Training with Dog Academy

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Find the Right Rat Terrier in Colorado for You

Rat terriers are brainy little dogs with a fearless personality and a lot of sass. They’ll chase the squirrels away, hide treats under blankets, and curl up in your lap all on the same day. If they sound like the kind of dog you’ve always wanted, signing up with a rescue early will make sure you find your rattie real quick.