40 Rat Terrier breeders in the PuppyReports directory — including programs in CA, WA, OK, FL, CO, NY. Every listing connects to a PuppyReports™ Card so families can check the DogFacts before they choose.
Rat Terrier Puppies for Sale by State
Rat Terrier puppies in California (6) · Rat Terrier puppies in Washington (4) · Rat Terrier puppies in Colorado (3) · Rat Terrier puppies in New York (3) · Rat Terrier puppies in Oklahoma (3)
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About Rat Terrier Puppies, Breeders & DogFacts
The Rat Terrier, developed in the United States from British terrier stock, is a small farm dog in the AKC Terrier Group prized historically for dispatching rats and vermin on American homesteads. Standing 10-18 inches tall and weighing 10-25 pounds depending on Miniature or Standard variety, they sport a short, smooth, low maintenance coat that needs only weekly brushing and occasional baths. Alert, affectionate, and endlessly curious, they bond closely with their families and do well with children and other pets. Daily walks plus vigorous play satisfy their energetic, intelligent nature, making them versatile companions for active households.
Breed Characteristics
Temperament
Rat Terrier dogs are known for: Lovable, Energetic, Vermin hunting, Plucky, Versatile.
- Lovable
- Energetic
- Vermin hunting
- Plucky
- Versatile
Family & Household Compatibility
- Good with children, this breed is generally compatible with kids.
- Good with other dogs, typically sociable with other dogs.
- Cats: strong prey drive may make cohabitation with cats challenging.
Known Health Considerations
Patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, allergies, cardiac issues
When researching Rat Terrier breeders, ask for documentation of health screening on both parents. Ethical breeders test for breed appropriate conditions through OFA, PennHIP, or breed club specified DNA panels before breeding.
Before You Choose a Rat Terrier Puppy
- Can I see health screening documentation for both parents?
- Are the parents registered with the AKC or relevant breed club?
- What is your return policy if the dog cannot remain in my home?
- Can I visit, meet the parents, and see where the puppies are raised?
- Do you provide a written health guarantee and vaccination records?
Screened Rat Terrier breeders on PuppyReports have submitted documentation, responded to the platform, and maintain an active PuppyReports™ Card. Research any breeder before you make a commitment.
Featured Ethical Rat Terrier Breeder
Members of the Canine Ethics Leadership Circle™ who breed Rat Terrier appear here, submitted health documentation, full record transparency, and a signed Canine Ethics Standard. One breeder per breed.
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About these recommendations. PuppyReports surfaces the basic health screening recommendations for each breed in accordance with the principles established by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program. The OFA, working with each breed’s primary US parent club, sets the recommended testing list per breed. Recommendations may vary by country and region (US OFA CHIC, European FCI, UK Kennel Club, Australian National Kennel Council, etc.). Always review current requirements with your breed’s parent club for your jurisdiction. Last reviewed: 2026-05-02.
Sources & further reading: American Kennel Club breed information; Orthopedic Foundation for Animals CHIC program (ofa.org/chic programs). Breed data sourced from PuppyReports™ breeds database. Last reviewed: 2026-04-24.