How to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Utah

The rat terrier is an all-American dog loved by almost everyone for its boundless energy, unwavering loyalty, and intelligence that allows it to learn almost anything you teach. Nicknamed the “rattie,” these dogs were originally bred on farms to keep vermin in check. Today, though, these dogs are loved as active companions for families, hikers, and just about anyone who wants a playful and loyal dog. They don’t have much in the way of grooming needs and adapt quite well to different lifestyles. That said, high-energy dogs aren’t for everyone, and they do have a strong prey drive considering their background on farms. Before learning how to adopt a rat terrier in Utah, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with the breed. We also recommend opting for adoption rather than buying from a breeder. You’ll be saving a life, getting a dog that is fully vaccinated and spayed or neutered, and learning about any behavioral quirks the shelter has already observed.

Rat Terrier Adoption in Utah

Finding a rat terrier for adoption can be difficult. Breed-specific dogs are quite desirable, so they don’t often end up in local municipal shelters. That said, if you’re willing to search throughout Utah, you can find a match within a reasonable distance.

A great way to adopt a rat terrier or rattie mix is through foster-based rescue networks. Start by filling out an application that asks about your lifestyle, pet experience, and how you plan to care for your new dog. This helps make sure the dog will be happy and safe in your home.

Next, the rescue might schedule a home visit. During the visit, staff will check to see that your space is safe for a curious, energetic rat terrier. They’ll look at things like secure yards, stair safety, and hazard-free areas, and you’ll have a chance to ask questions about the dog’s behavior and daily needs.

Once your application is approved and the home visit is complete, you get to bring your new dog home. That’s when the real fun begins: introducing your rat terrier to their new favorite spots, starting training, and building a strong bond that will last for years.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Rat Terrier in Utah? Getting a rat terrier, especially from a breed-specific rescue organization, you’ll need to pay an adoption fee that falls somewhere in the range of $250 to $400. Breed-specific organizations charge more because they cover higher expenses for medical care, spaying or neutering, and other necessary services. Specialized vet care, transport, and training are just a few of the things they provide that a local shelter might not. When adopting, you’ll also need to budget for expenses beyond the adoption fee, especially if you plan to buy toys or gifts for your dog during the holiday season.

How Should I Train a Rat Terrier? The rattie is an incredibly intelligent, curious, and active breed, which makes reward-based positive training the best option for success. These dogs have a terrier tenacity that will cause them to become highly resistant to training should you use harsh corrections or punishment. It’s generally a good idea to try positive training first. It’s important to keep your dog active, engaging them in short and consistent training sessions when you can. Add treats, praise, and their favorite toys as needed to make training a fun game rather than a chore, for both the dog and you. If you’re new to training, we recommend checking out one of our online courses. Dog Training with Dog Academy

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Find the Right Rat Terrier in Utah for You

Finding a rat terrier for adoption can be challenging, especially when you consider how their personality matches yours. However, if you stay persistent, reach out to the right organizations, and understand the dog’s needs, you can find a wonderful rattie to bring home.

Remember that the breed is a highly energetic one and has a high prey drive. If you’re unable to commit time to training or have prey animals at home, a rat terrier may not be the dog for you.