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Rat terriers are small dogs that fit into all sizes of homes, as long as they get their share of exercise and human attention. These dogs are gentle around children, too, which makes them popular among families with young kids.
New Hampshire offers plenty of outdoor fun for ratties. From going on sniff-and-explore adventures on forest trails to spending an afternoon splashing in a dog-friendly lake, they’ll have the time of their life here. Plus, the climate is pretty temperate, which means more fun and less exhaustion due to the heat.
If you’ve been meaning to add a quick-witted and affectionate watchdog to your family, this guide explains how to adopt a rat terrier in New Hampshire. We’ve also shared some helpful training tips for first-time owners below.
Rat Terrier Adoption in New Hampshire
Living with a smart and active dog means constantly thinking of “clever” ways to hide treats and treating walks like a full-time job. If you think you can handle that much energy with a happy heart, start looking for shelters and rescues that cater to small dogs, like the rat terriers.
Joining Facebook terrier-focused groups of New Hampshire, attending dog shows in your region, and connecting with experienced owners are all reliable ways of finding a respectable organization. You can also ask your local vet for their recommendations, as they are usually the first to know when a dog comes up for adoption.
The right organization will ask you to fill out an adoption application first. They care deeply about where their dogs end up, so they take time to learn about each applicant’s lifestyle, home environment, and experience with dogs. If they feel your lifestyle matches the needs of a rattie, they’ll invite you for a one-on-one meeting.
The meeting is more like a friendly conversation. The staff will ask you questions about your expectations for the rattie, and answer yours about their behavior and training needs. The staff might request you to give them a virtual tour of your property, so they can help you make it safer for your furry companion.
After everything checks out, you can meet your dog. Spend time observing how alert, playful, and responsive they are. Also, look for signs of poor socialization, like avoiding eye contact or unusual barking. This will help you understand how much training they’ll need. If the dog still clicks, finish the rest of the paperwork and bring your rattie home.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in New Hampshire?Adopting a rat terrier in New Hampshire can cost you around $200 to $350. The price varies according to your location and the dog’s age. Shelters in large cities and urban areas charge a higher price. Similarly, puppies are pricier than oldies because of the extra vet care and attention they need. If you’re on a budget, adopting an old rattie will be a better option. Besides the fee, you’ll have to invest in a cozy setup at home with the right-sized crate, sturdy tug toys, and feeding bowls. Ratties need a high-protein diet to support muscle health and growth. You’ll also have to take them for routine health checkups and get them enrolled in a professional training course. Overall, you’re looking at about $1,000 to $1,500 a year. |
How Should I Train a Rat Terrier?Rat terriers aren’t too difficult to train. They understand instructions well and try to do their best to make you happy. They do have a stubborn streak, but you can manage it by staying patient and firm, and rewarding good behavior with treats and belly rubs. Start by setting a routine with clear timings for meals, naps, and playtime. Keep training sessions short, about 10 minutes each, to keep your pup engaged throughout. Switch up training equipment every few days and think of creative ways to incorporate obedience drills with agility activities. Ratties are intelligent dogs, and they need variety. Crate training is extremely helpful. It teaches your dog to stay calm in your absence and control their bladder. Introduce them to their cozy den early and make it look attractive with toys. Also, never use it for time-outs because then your rattie will associate the crate with punishment. If you need help getting started, try our Crate Training course. |
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Find the Right Rat Terrier in New Hampshire for You
Adopting a rat terrier is a budget-friendly way of adding a furry companion to your family. These bundles of energy will fill your home with sunshine and make sure you burn your daily dose of calories by playing with them. If you have the time to raise one of these zoomie machines, start looking for them in shelters and rescues now.
