How to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Delaware

Rat terriers make perfect family members for active households. They get along with children and make friends with other canines easily. If you want to bring one home, learning about their quirks and needs will prepare you to care for them the right way.

Delaware is one of the best places to raise these short-coated dogs. Summers are pleasant here, which means your pup will have a lot of time to explore the scenic outdoors next to you. Take them to off-leash parks, like Lums Pond State Park, to help them burn some heat, or enjoy a sweet picnic under the stars as they sniff and explore.

Do you want to learn how to adopt a rat terrier in Delaware? This guide has information on everything, from the adoption process to the associated costs. These details will not only make your journey smoother, but also help you find a rattie that matches your lifestyle and pace.

Rat Terrier Adoption in Delaware

Delaware is home to several rescues and shelters working for the wellness of small dogs, like the rat terrier. Look for them on social media forums where they actively post details about available dogs, or check online listings. You can also get recommendations from experienced rattie owners and local vets.

Reputable adoption centers care about where their dogs end up. This is why many require interested candidates to follow a standard procedure. Once you find the organization you want to work with, you’ll have to submit an adoption application online. It’ll have questions about your family members, living arrangements, hobbies, and daily schedule.

After your application gets approved, the staff will invite you for an in-person meeting. They might ask about your expectations for the dog to understand if you’re ready for the commitment. Use this time to learn more about the dog, from their behavioral issues to diet preferences. Also, go through all their documents to be sure you’re adopting a healthy pup.

Sometimes, the staff requests a site visit to see if it’s safe enough for a curious furry buddy. Rat terriers are known to wiggle their butts out of tight spaces, especially if they have their eyes set on a prey. After looking at your space, the staff will be able to share useful puppy-proofing tips to prevent accidents and escape attempts.

Finally, you can meet your new best friend and spend time with them at the facility. Observe how they behave in their comfort zone to understand how much training they’ll need. If you feel they’re the dog you’ve been looking for all this time, finish the paperwork, get them checked for skin allergies, and bring them home.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Delaware? Adopting a rat terrier in Delaware can cost you around $250 to $300. The exact price depends on the age of the dog, their health, and training level. Your location will play a role, too. Usually, rescue homes charge a lower fee than shelters. Regardless of where you adopt from, the fee will cover the cost of microchipping, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering. Rat terriers are low-maintenance dogs, especially when it comes to their grooming and diet needs. Nevertheless, you will have to invest in an initial setup, nutritious kibble, and professional training for your pup’s well-being. Routine health checkups are important, too. All these expenses add up to around $500 to $1,500 annually.

How Should I Train a Rat Terrier? Setting a routine and establishing boundaries are the two best things you can do to help your rattie settle into their new home. Structure makes them feel safer, and tells them what’s expected of them. Use positive reinforcement, with treats and playtime, to teach them basic commands, like “sit,” and “stay.” For fitness, plan agility activities in the backyard. As energetic dogs, rat terriers enjoy jumping over bars, weaving through poles, and navigating tunnels. Barn hunt is their favorite game, as it satisfies their natural hunting instinct. Keep training sessions short to prevent boredom and avoid overexhaustion. Delaware requires all dogs to be on a leash in public spaces. Since ratties tend to go after squirrels and rabbits, training them to walk without being distracted is very important. Invest in a secure leash, about 4 to 6 feet long, to make walks easier. If you need professional assistance, Dog Academy’s Loose Leash Walking program can offer some great tips. Dog Training with Dog Academy

---

Find the Right Rat Terrier in Delaware for You

Adopting a rat terrier means signing up for plenty of playtime and sweet cuddles. These smart four-legged companions want to make their owners happy, and so are easy to train with consistent guidance. If you have the time and patience to train them, they’ll bring a ton of sunshine to your life and keep you on your toes.