Small breed
Rat Terrier Puppies
The Rat Terrier is a rare and beloved dog breed in the United States. Due to their active nature and intelligence, Rat Terriers are widely sought after by numerous families in the US. Discover more about our Rat Terrier puppies for sale below!
We do not have Rat Terrier puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Adult weight 10–25 lbs
- Height 10–18 in
- Lifespan 12–18 years
- Exercise 60 min a day
About the Rat Terrier
Discover the Rat Terrier: Your New Best Friend
Are you looking for a lively companion that fits seamlessly into your family? The Rat Terrier might just be the perfect match! Known for their affectionate nature and vibrant personality, these small dogs are often great with young kids, making them a charming addition to any household. With an energy level of 5 out of 5, they’re always up for a game of fetch or a playful romp in the yard, so you’ll never have a dull moment. Their friendly demeanor usually extends to other dogs as well, although they might be a bit cautious around cats.
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As for exercise needs, the Rat Terrier thrives on regular activity. They are sprightly little dogs who love to run and play, so daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy. This breed does well in an apartment setting, with a moderate apartment-friendliness rating of 3, but keep in mind that their energetic nature means they need outlets for that enthusiasm. Having some space for play is ideal, and a secure yard or local dog park will work wonders for their happiness.
When it comes to grooming, Rat Terriers are relatively low-maintenance. With a grooming frequency of just once a month, you’ll spend less time fussing over their appearance and more time enjoying their company. However, be prepared for some shedding—rated at a 4 out of 5—as these little guys do tend to lose hair consistently. Regular brushing can help manage this and keep their coats looking nice.
Training your Rat Terrier can be a delightful experience. With a trainability score of 4, these dogs are smart and eager to learn, which makes teaching them new commands and tricks a fun bonding activity. They are generally quite affectionate, so using positive reinforcement will yield excellent results. Just be ready for their barking tendency, rated at a 5, as they might alert you to everything happening around them. Lastly, while Rat Terriers are generally healthy dogs, it’s always good to stay on top of regular vet check-ups to ensure they stay in tip-top shape.
In short, the Rat Terrier is full of energy, love, and character, making them an excellent choice for families and individuals alike. If you believe this little bundle of joy might be the right fit for you, come on down to our store and meet your future best friend today!
Rat Terrier breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Always game
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With strangers Cautious
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Territorial Very territorial
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Prey drive High
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Needs care
Energy & exercise
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Energy Very high
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Mental stimulation High
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Heavy
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Drooling None to speak of
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Barking Very vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Good
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Average
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Warm weather Comfortable
A good match for
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First-time owners Good first dog
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Senior owners Good
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Running partner Good
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Hiking Good
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Therapy work Possible
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Guarding Low
Living with a Rat Terrier
Temperament & Family Fit
Rat Terriers are spirited little companions with a big heart! Their affectionate nature makes them great for families, especially those with young kids, as they tend to get along well and enjoy playtime. While they're adaptable, a little attention to socialization can help them mesh well with other pets in the home.
Energy & Exercise
With a moderate energy level, Rat Terriers thrive on daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Regular playtime in the yard or engaging in interactive games can go a long way in satisfying their lively spirit. Just remember, too much pent-up energy can lead to barking, so give them plenty of outlets!
Care & Grooming
These small dogs have a relatively low grooming frequency, requiring only monthly brushing to keep their short coat looking its best. However, be prepared for some shedding, as they can lose a fair amount of fur. Routine check-ups and a good diet will help ensure your Rat Terrier maintains a shiny coat and overall good health.
Training Notes
Rat Terriers are quite trainable, thanks to their eagerness to please and high intelligence. Positive reinforcement methods work best, so keep training sessions fun and rewarding. While they can be a bit vocal, consistent training and socialization can help manage their barking tendencies, ensuring a happy household for everyone.
Caring for a Rat Terrier
- Grooming
- Monthly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Low
- Monthly food
- Low
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
Frequently Asked Questions
What size can I expect a Rat Terrier to be?
Rat Terriers are small dogs, typically weighing between 10 to 25 pounds. Their compact size makes them a great addition to families of all kinds, fitting snugly into various living situations.
How energetic are Rat Terriers?
Rat Terriers are quite energetic and will thrive in active households. They require regular exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy, so be ready for some fun activities!
Are Rat Terriers good with children?
Yes, Rat Terriers are generally good with young kids! Their friendly disposition and affectionate nature make them great companions for energetic children, but of course, supervision is always recommended.
Do Rat Terriers get along with other pets?
While Rat Terriers can get along with other dogs, they may not be the best fit for homes with cats, as their prey drive can kick in. Socializing them from a young age can help build positive relationships with other pets.
How often do Rat Terriers need grooming?
Rat Terriers have a monthly grooming requirement due to their moderate shedding. Regular brushing helps keep their coat healthy and reduces loose fur around your home!
