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
The Rat Terrier is a small, spirited breed known for its lively nature and affectionate personality. Hailing from working-class roots, these dogs were originally bred for hunting and farm tasks, making them both intelligent and agile. They have developed a reputation for being excellent companions, particularly for families with young children, where their playful demeanor shines. With a trainable disposition and a natural knack for learning, Rat Terriers thrive in environments where they are given the opportunity to engage both mentally and physically.
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These energetic dogs have a moderate level of exercise needs, making them suitable for various living situations, including apartments. With a well-balanced daily routine, they can be satisfied with playtime or walks, and their friendly nature allows them to socialize well with other dogs. That being said, early socialization is key if you intend for them to coexist with cats, as their instinctual hunting tendencies can sometimes come into play.
Grooming a Rat Terrier is relatively straightforward, requiring only monthly brushing to keep their coat looking spruced up. While they do shed, their short, smooth fur means that upkeep is not too demanding compared to other breeds. One aspect to consider is their barking tendency, which can be quite pronounced; they have a knack for vocalizing their excitement and alerting their families to anything they deem noteworthy.
If you’re looking for a vibrant, loving companion who will bring joy and laughter into your home and you reside in Petland Iowa City, Iowa, the Rat Terrier may just be the perfect fit for your family. Their affectionate spirit and spirited nature make every day an adventure.
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!
