Rat Terrier
Breed Stats
Rat Terrier Puppy Overview
Thinking about bringing a rat terrier puppy into your life? Great choice. These energetic little dogs are fun, affectionate, and surprisingly easy to live with… as long as you can keep up with their energy. They’re sharp, loyal, and always ready to play.
Bred originally for hunting and farm work, rat terriers have a strong work ethic and a curious mind. They’ll follow you around the house, “supervise” your every move, and jump at the chance to chase a ball or learn a new trick.
Rat terriers aren’t always easy to find, though. Since they’re not as common as some other small breeds, you’ll need to know where to look and how to choose the right breeder. You’ll also want to understand their specific needs as puppies.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to find the best rat terrier puppies for sale, what to expect during the buying process, and how to care for your new pup from day one.
How to Find Rat Terrier Puppies for Sale?
If you’re set on bringing a rat terrier puppy home, the first big step is figuring out where to find one. Since rat terriers aren’t as commonly bred as some other small dogs, you may not see them popping up in local shelters or pet shops as often. That means you’ll likely need to search online or contact breeders directly.
One of the best places to start your search is Dog Academy. Their online platform makes it easy to browse available rat terrier puppies from vetted, reputable breeders nationwide. This saves time and helps you avoid the risks of buying from shady sellers.
Dog Academy stands out because they only work with breeders who meet strict health and ethical standards. That means no puppy mills, poorly bred dogs, and no surprises after bringing your puppy home. Each listing includes health guarantees, vet check info, and details about the pup’s personality so you can find the best match for your home and lifestyle.
If you’re not using Dog Academy, just be extra cautious. Some online avenues and social media groups might have listings for rat terrier pups, but there’s a high chance that they don’t have strong vetting processes. Always ask questions, request health clearances, and trust your gut to ensure you bring home a healthy pup.
You might also consider looking into local breed-specific clubs or attending dog shows in your area. These can be great places to connect directly with breeders who are passionate about the rat terrier breed and can provide you with valuable information and potentially available puppies.
How to Find a Good Rat Terrier Puppy Breeder?
Choosing the right breeder is just as important as selecting the puppy itself. A good breeder sets the stage for a healthy, well-adjusted dog. A careless one? That could mean behavior problems, hidden health issues, and a lot of stress down the line.
So, how do you tell the good from the bad?
Start with the green flags. A responsible rat terrier breeder will know the breed inside and out. They’ll happily talk about temperament, history, and common health concerns. Even more importantly, they’ll give health tests to their breeding dogs and share the results with you without hesitation or excuses.
They will raise their puppies in a clean, home-like environment where they get plenty of early socialization. You should be welcome to visit in person, or at least get a virtual tour, to meet the mother dog and see where the puppies live. Transparency is key.
A good breeder will also care where their puppies end up. Expect questions about your lifestyle, work schedule, and experience with dogs. That’s a good sign. They want a good match, not just a quick sale. You should also leave with health records, vaccination history, and often a written health guarantee. And if you have questions later? They’ll still be there to help.
Now for the red flags. Avoid breeders who always have litters ready, breed multiple types of dogs, or rush you into a decision. Be wary if they refuse to show you the living conditions, won’t introduce you to the mother dog, or suggest meeting in a parking lot to hand off the puppy.
While a low price might seem tempting, it can signal poor breeding practices or a lack of health care. If anything feels off, it probably is. It’s worth waiting a little longer to find a healthy, happy rat terrier puppy from someone who truly cares.
How Much Does a Rat Terrier Puppy Cost?
Most rat terrier puppies cost between $500 and $1,200. However, prices can shift depending on where you live:
- Northeast: Expect higher prices, usually between $700 and $1,200.
- Midwest: Typically more affordable, between $500 and $900.
- South: Prices vary but typically fall between $600 and $1,000.
- West: Often on the higher end, ranging from $800 to $1,500.
In addition to the location, a few other factors directly influence the final price of a rat terrier pup. This includes:
- Reputation: Breeders known for prioritizing health, socialization, and ethical practices often charge more, but it’s money well spent.
- Lineage: Puppies from champion bloodlines or those bred for specific traits (like size or coat color) tend to have a higher price tag.
- Health Guarantees: Some breeders include comprehensive health screenings and guarantees, which can raise the price.
Also, remember to factor in the cost of initial supplies, grooming, vaccination, and microchipping when budgeting for your new puppy. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a happy, healthy start for your new companion.
Rat Terriers For Sale
How to Care for a Rat Terrier Puppy?
Caring for a rat terrier puppy means more than feeding and cuddling (though there’s plenty of that, too). These energetic and intelligent little dogs require consistent attention to training, socialization, and their overall well-being. They also come with a few quirks that first-time owners should be ready for.
1. Training and Early Socialization
Start training early. Rat terriers are intelligent and quickly pick up commands, but are also independent thinkers. That means consistency, patience, and rewards-based training are your best tools. Keep sessions short and engaging to hold their attention. Crate and early potty training should also be prioritized from day one.
Socialization is equally important. In the first few months, introduce your puppy to various people, animals, sounds, and settings. This helps reduce anxiety later in life and teaches it to behave in different environments.
2. Puppy-Proofing Your Home
These pups are small but agile and curious, so puppy-proofing is essential. Rat terriers are known for their digging instincts and love to chase, so ensure your yard is securely fenced with no escape routes. They have a strong prey drive, so if you have small pets like hamsters or gerbils, keep them in secure enclosures until your pup is properly trained.
Rat terriers are also curious and prone to getting into things, so secure any electrical cords, medications, and other potential hazards. Like most puppies, they will likely go through a chewing phase, so provide plenty of appropriate chew toys to keep them occupied and protect your belongings.
3. Feeding, Exercise, and Grooming
Choose a high-quality puppy food formulated for small breeds. Rat terriers have fast metabolisms, so they benefit from regular meals. They usually eat three small meals daily until about six months old, then twice daily. Be careful not to overfeed; they can be prone to weight gain if not adequately exercised.
Rat terriers may be tiny, but they’re packed with energy. They need daily walks, interactive toys, and play sessions to stay happy and prevent boredom-based behaviour. Puzzle toys or training games are perfect for keeping their sharp little minds busy.
In addition to these, you’ll also need to follow a strict grooming schedule for your rat terrier pup. The good news? This breed is low-maintenance.
Their short, smooth coats only need brushing once or twice weekly to control shedding and keep their skin healthy. Bathing is only necessary when they get dirty. You’ll also need to add nail trimming, dental care, and ear cleaning to your routine.
Is It a Good Idea to Buy a Rat Terrier Puppy As Your First Dog?
If you’re a first-time dog owner, a rat terrier puppy might be a great match if you’re ready to keep up with their brains and energy. They’re not the most challenging breed, but they need structure, consistency, and plenty of activity to thrive.
On the positive side, rat terriers are intelligent and generally eager to please, which can make training rewarding for a first-time owner. They are also relatively small and don’t require a huge space, making them perfect for those living in apartments or smaller homes.
That said, they can also be a little headstrong. Their independence and high prey drive mean they may not always come when called, especially if something more interesting (like a squirrel) catches their eye. First-time owners should be prepared to manage that energy and stay one step ahead with structured play and clear boundaries.
Because they’re small and relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, rat terriers are easier to manage physically than larger, more demanding breeds. However, their need for regular exercise and mental stimulation means they won’t be content just lounging around. If you want a more laid-back, couch-potato type of puppy, this might not be your breed.
TL; DR: While rat terriers can be wonderful companions, they may not be the easiest breed for a first-time dog owner. They thrive with humans who are active, consistent with training, and can provide them with the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Buy the Right Rat Terrier Puppy for You
Choosing the right rat terrier puppy is more than picking the cutest face. You must find a good match for your lifestyle, personality, and long-term goals as a dog owner. These pups are clever, energetic, and full of personality, so it’s essential to be honest with yourself about what you can provide regarding time, training, and activity.
If you’re fully set on bringing this miniature breed home, do it correctly. Contact reputable breeders yourself or through Dog Academy. Do your research, take your time, and you’ll be able to bring home a rat terrier pup with a loyal, fun-loving personality who’s ready to take on life’s adventures right by your side.
