How to Adopt a Rat Terrier in North Dakota

The rat terrier may want people to think they’re a fierce menace who strikes fear into the hearts of all those around. But unfortunately for them (and luckily for us), their bark is much larger than their bite! When they’re not on alert, they transform into the most affectionate, gentle, and loving softies around.

Rat terriers are packed full of energy and love to explore the outdoors, making them well-suited to life in North Dakota, with the state known for its diverse landscapes and road trip-worthy (and dog-friendly!) national parks. Just be sure to keep a close eye on the weather forecast and take precautions accordingly, as North Dakota’s continental climate means temperatures can vary drastically.

If you’re looking to welcome a rat terrier into your North Dakota home, keep reading. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step overview of how to adopt a rat terrier in North Dakota. We’ll also discuss how to train them.

Rat Terrier Adoption in North Dakota

Rat terriers aren’t the most common breed in the US. However, they do often end up in rescues because misinformed owners buy them without understanding quite how much attention, care, and exercise they require. To make sure you don’t make the same mistake, it’s crucial to learn as much as you can about their needs before proceeding any further.

If you know in your heart the rat terrier is the breed for you, then you can look to start the pet adoption process. Contact local rescues to learn more about their available pups, and as soon as you find a rat terrier you’re interested in adopting, send in an adoption application form. The form will gather information about your lifestyle, living situation, previous pet ownership experience, and household members. The staff will use your answers to assess whether the rat terrier is the right match.

If approved, you’ll be invited to an in-person interview with the staff. They’ll talk you through how life will be as a new owner and give you more information on the rat terrier’s care needs, history, and temperament. You’ll also have an opportunity to “meet and greet” the rat terrier. Take plenty of toys and treats with you, and make sure to watch how they interact with other people and dogs.

Some rescues in North Dakota will run additional background checks to verify the answers provided in your application form. They may request previous veterinary records or arrange for home checks, so be mindful of this. Puppy-proof your living space in advance of any home visits, as this will help the staff understand that you’ll be a responsible owner.

If you get the all clear from staff, and you’re happy to move forward, you’ll sign the adoption paperwork and pay a small fee. You can now get ready for endless fun, adventure, and fluff! That said, be sure to read up on pet-related legislation in your jurisdiction before you welcome them home. Depending on where you reside in North Dakota, you may be required by law to obtain a pet license (like in Fargo).

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in North Dakota? Adopting a rat terrier in North Dakota is relatively inexpensive compared to purchasing a puppy from a breeder. Most rescue agencies here set their adoption fees between $50 and $450 for healthy rat terriers, and they also cover the cost of initial expenses like deworming and vaccinations. You should also consider ongoing care costs. The rat terrier is packed with energy and fares best on a protein-rich diet, so it’s important to invest in high-quality dog food that accommodates their needs. You also need to factor in expenses such as routine vet visits, toys, and training. As a rough guide, most owners spend around $1,000 each year on their rat terrier’s care. You should expect to spend more than this if you live in a city like Bismarck, where the cost of living is slightly higher than the average in North Dakota.

How Should I Train a Rat Terrier Positive reinforcement, or reward-based training, is the best approach for the rat terrier. Their independent streak means they need trust in you and lots of motivation to engage with training sessions effectively. Be consistent and reward good behaviors with high-value treats, fun games, and a whole lot of “good boys.” Since rat terriers can be wary, you should also schedule time for socialization. Expose them to different places in North Dakota, introduce them to neighbors, and take them out and about to local pet-friendly spots. Be sure to also check out secure dog parks in North Dakota, like Dakota Bark Park in Minot. Another area you’ll want to focus on is their leash manners. Rat terriers do have strong prey drives and tend to chase after any small, moving prey-like animal they spot. This can lead them to pull on the leash, especially when walking around in more rural areas of North Dakota. If you’re struggling to manage your rat terrier’s leash pulling, our dedicated Loose Leash Walking course can help. Dog Training with Dog Academy

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Find the Right Rat Terrier in North Dakota for You

Finding the perfect rat terrier in North Dakota may seem daunting, though it becomes a whole lot easier once you begin to consider your own preferences, home, and lifestyle. Do you want a laidback, older rat terrier who will happily snooze on your lap, or a young, energy-filled companion to join you on hikes in Turtle River State Park?

Once you have a better understanding of yourself, you’ll find it easy to narrow down your options as you review adoptable rat terriers. When you think you’ve found the one, it’s just a matter of getting in touch with the rescue agency and sending in an adoption application form. Good luck!