How to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Illinois

Rat terriers are fun-loving, loyal dogs who bring a ton of sunshine wherever they go. They enjoy being a part of the family and live for sweet, cuddly moments with their favorite human. If you’ve been looking for a dog who’ll make you laugh with their silly antics, play with your kids gently, and keep squirrels out of your yard, a rattie is your best choice.

Illinois’ dog-friendly parks and lakeside trails make it a dreamy playground for rat terriers. They’ll have their moments sniffing the grass, splashing by the water, and greeting every new friend they meet. Just make sure you bundle them up during the chilly winters, as their short coats don’t handle the cold very well.

Want to learn how to adopt a rat terrier in Illinois? Let’s take a look at the process, so you’re fully prepared when a rattie comes up for adoption.

Rat Terrier Adoption in Illinois

Adopting a rat terrier is a great way to find a dog that matches your personality. However, before you commit to the role, understand that these active dogs need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to live their best lives.

Does that feel like a dog you can share your life with? If so, you’ll find plenty of rescues and shelters in Illinois, looking for forever homes for their ratties. There are a few ways to find them, from joining social media groups for dog lovers in Illinois to attending dog shows.

Once you find adoption centers with available dogs, visit their websites to read reviews and understand their policies. After you decide who to adopt from, fill out their adoption application to join their pool of interested individuals.

The form will have questions about your life, home, and family. It’s the rescue’s way of making sure their dog ends up with a loving and caring family. After they review your application and find you a good match, they’ll call you for an interview. It’s more like a friendly chat to understand your expectations for the breed and answer your questions.

Finally, you’ll get to meet your rattie. Learn how to greet a dog at a shelter or rescue to start your relationship on a positive note. Request the on-site vet to give the dog a quick physical checkup to rule out skin allergies or dental issues. If everything checks out, you can complete the formalities and take your pooch home.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Illinois? Adopting a rat terrier in Illinois can set you back by $200 to $450. The exact price depends on the dog’s age and health. Sometimes, your location plays a role, too. Since the fee covers neutering or spaying, microchipping, deworming, and vaccinations, adopting a rattie is much more affordable than purchasing from a breeder. Rat terriers are low-maintenance dogs. You’ll need about $500 to $1,500 a year to raise one comfortably. Initial essentials include premium quality dog food, engaging toys, a right-sized crate, and a secure leash. Also, keep up with routine vet visits and professional training to make sure your dog lives a long and healthy life as a well-behaved family member.

How Should I Train a Rat Terrier? Training is an important part of dog ownership. It not only makes a dog well-behaved, but also keeps their body fit and mind sharp. Start as soon as you bring your rattie home. Following a routine and establishing boundaries will help them adjust to their new life sooner. It’ll also make it easier to housetrain them. As outgoing and sociable dogs, ratties enjoy meeting new people and fellow canines. They might be wary at first, but with constant guidance, they’ll soon become comfortable. Take them for walks in different parks to expose them to new environments. Also, teach them basic greeting manners, like saying hello without jumping, so they don’t overwhelm people. Rat terriers are intelligent dogs who pick up tricks quickly. If you’d like to teach your pup fun moves, our Dog Tricks for Beginners course can guide you through everything from spin to roll over, and beyond. Dog Training with Dog Academy

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Find the Right Rat Terrier in Illinois for You

Have you always wanted a dog who’ll follow you around, curl up in your lap, and eagerly wait at the door for you? You need a rat terrier. These loyal and family-oriented four-legged munchkins have a ton of love to offer. Sure, they’ll keep you on your toes, playing fetch and hiding treats, but their dedication and loyalty will make it all worth it.