Rat Terrier In Front Of White Background

Rat terriers, the little dynamos of the canine world, often called the little dynamos of the canine world, are loved for their energy and charm. They are full of character and zoomies, and never let a boring day dull their sparkle. Plus, they are intelligent and affectionate. What more could you ask for in a dog?

Rhode Island matches a rat terrier’s vibe perfectly. It’s small but lively. From lazy afternoons in dog-friendly cafes to sniff-and-chase zoomies in off-leash parks, your pup will enjoy every bit of the state. Keep up with winter weather management, and your rattie will happily stick around.

Adopting a dog is a thoughtful gesture. It gives a deserving pup a new chance at life and fills your heart with warmth. If you want to add a dog to your life without exceeding your budget, learn how to adopt a rat terrier in Rhode Island.

Rat Terrier Adoption in Rhode Island

Rhode Island has several rescues and shelters looking for forever homes for rat terriers. Look for them in breed-specific groups on social media to start your adoption process. Many actively share pictures and bios of available dogs online to make it easier for responsible families to find them.

To pick the right organization, make sure you understand the red flags of adoption. Posts with vague information, for example, can be a sign of fraud. Similarly, be wary of ads that pressure you to make quick payments or avoid sharing the dog’s medical history. A trustworthy rescue will always be transparent and happy to answer your questions.

When you find a respectable rescue or shelter, get ready for their screening process. They’ll want to know about your lifestyle and experience with dogs to be sure you’ll make a good parent. Rat terriers are generally easy-going dogs that adapt to several living conditions. However, they don’t compromise on physical and mental stimulation. Keep that in mind while applying.

Once you clear the initial stage, you’ll be invited for a friendly chat with the staff. During the meeting, they’ll ask you about your expectations for the breed. Rat terriers make excellent watchdogs, but they are also pro critter hunters. If you’re looking for a dog who’ll stay still when a squirrel pops up before them, a rattie isn’t for you.

If everything goes well, you can meet your potential sidekick within the facility. Take notes on their social skills, so you know how much training they’ll need. Also, request the on-site vet to check them for fleas and ticks before taking them home.

Other Dogs For Adoption

Adopt MeYeti

Yeti

Waterloo, IL
Breed: Rat Terrier
Sex: Female
Age: 5 yrs 6 mos
Rat Terrier Standing

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Rhode Island?

The adoption fee for rat terriers can vary quite a bit in Rhode Island. Rescues charge around $200 to $300, whereas shelters can charge up to $500 for well-socialized and healthy dogs. Almost all organizations cover vaccinations, microchipping, and deworming in the fee. It’s still a good idea to ask what’s included to know exactly what you’re paying for.

Ratties aren’t overly demanding dogs. Their short and silky coats don’t require too much grooming, nor do they have a big appetite. That being said, setting aside $1500 a year will allow you to care for your dog without feeling burdened.

How Should I Train a Rat Terrier?

With high intelligence and a desire to make their owners happy, rat terriers make one of the most trainable dogs. They understand commands well and can sometimes even surprise you with recall. To help them get there, you’ll have to follow a routine and establish boundaries.

As active dogs, ratties excel at agility training. It keeps their bodies and minds sharp. Invest in equipment, like jumping bars and tunnels, to make outdoor playtime interesting. If you’re on a budget, you can even use household items to create your own obstacles. Keep sessions short so your rattie stays engaged, and move training indoors when the temperatures get too extreme.

Early socialization is effective in making terriers feel comfortable around strangers. Regular walks and play dates are a great way to introduce your pup to new environments and people. If your dog is an overly suspicious kind, you can join our Building Confidence in Dogs course to learn some useful tricks.

Dog Training with Dog Academy

Rat Terrier On A Blue Background

Find the Right Rat Terrier in Rhode Island for You

Adding a rat terrier to your life means choosing adventure and joy. These lively dogs love going on long walks as much as they enjoy cuddling next to you on the couch. With regular training and plenty of care, these zoomie machines will easily become your new best friend. Ready for the ride? Go and get your very own rattie today!