Rat Terrier Puppies for Sale

Rat Terrier For Sale: About the Breed

A Rat Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in the United States. The breed was developed in the 19th century from a mix of several terrier breeds, including the Fox Terrier and Manchester Terrier, to create a dog capable of catching rats and other small vermin. The Rat Terrier was particularly popular among American farmers and homesteaders in the early 20th century who needed a reliable and versatile working dog.

Today, the breed is recognized by several kennel clubs and is prized for its loyalty, intelligence, and athleticism. Discover what it's like to live with a Rat Terrier puppy for sale by examining its characteristics, activity level, disposition, training, and grooming needs.

Characteristics

If you're googling "Does a Rat Terrier puppy for sale near me actually look like a rat?" you'll be happy to learn that no, they don't – their name comes from their breeding purpose and not their looks!

A Rat Terrier puppy for sale is a small, muscular breed with a compact, athletic build that makes them well-suited for a range of activities, including hunting, agility, and obedience training. A fully grown Rat Terrier puppy for sale typically stands between 8 and 18 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 5 and 25 pounds. Miniature Rat Terrier puppies for sale are 10-13 inches tall, while Standard Rat Terrier puppies for sale are 13-18 inches

Rat Terrier puppies for sale have short, smooth coats that come in various colors, including red, black, sable, apricot, blue, chocolate, silver, blue fawn, lemon, fawn, tan, white, and brindle with several pied color combinations possible. Rat Terriers are known for their alert, expressive faces with large, round eyes and perky ears that stand up or fold forward.

Activity Level

Rat Terrier puppies for sale are extremely active little dogs and need lots of exercise to stay happy and healthy. However, due to their size, they don't need to go on long, intense walks. Throwing a ball, going on walks around the block, taking them to the dog park, or playing with them inside are good ways to exercise your Rat Terrier.

Because a Rat Terrier puppy for sale has a strong prey drive, they're not suited for households with small animals such as gerbils or hamsters. In addition, it's important to keep them on a leash or ensure they can run freely in a safe, enclosed area. However, they excel in dog sports like obedience and agility.

Disposition

Rat Terrier puppies are generally outgoing and love to be around people. However, they can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is important. They can be sensitive in nature and love to please their people.

Rat Terriers are tolerant of and playful with children and make excellent family dogs. Because they're so intelligent and active, a Rat Terrier puppy will be happiest with lots of opportunities for mental stimulation, such as fun games and puzzle toys for human bonding and exercise.

Training

If you're wondering if "Rat Terrier puppies for sale near me" need a lot of training due to their prey drive and activity level, you would be correct! Rat Terrier puppies for sale are intelligent but can be stubborn. Begin training as soon as possible by establishing clear rules and boundaries and using positive reinforcement to reward good behavior. Consistency is key when training a Rat Terrier puppy for sale, so be sure to stick to a regular routine.

Grooming Needs & Care

Despite their short coats, Rat Terrier puppies for sale are moderate shedders. For this reason, it's important to brush your Rat Terrier puppy a few times a week with a rubber glove, curry comb, or a slicker brush to remove dead hair and redistribute natural oils.

Other areas will need attention in your Rat Terrier puppy, such as dental care, nails, and ears. Brush your Rat Terrier puppy's teeth a few times a week to monitor their teeth and keep them healthy & looking good. Trimming nails is important to prevent foot and paw problems. Because their ears can flop down, keeping them free of wax and checking for irritation or bad smells is necessary to prevent infections.

Cost

In search of a Rat Terrier puppy with a pedigree? Interested in the price for a Rat Terrier puppy with breeding rights? Expect to pay from $1,500 to $3,385 for a Rat Terrier puppy from a champion or top-pedigree line. The average price for all Rat Terrier puppies is $1,995.