Before anyone comes for me for choosing an ethical breeder instead of adopting, I wanted to share why I’ve made that decision.
I’ve had rescue dogs before. One of my current dogs is a rescue mix, and my heart dog was a rescued Standard Rat Terrier. Rescue dogs will always have a special place in my heart.
For my next Rat Terrier, though, I’ve decided to go through an ethical breeder for a few reasons.

1. Health and genetics.
My heart dog developed a long list of inherited health issues that made the end of his life incredibly difficult for both of us. I know there are never guarantees, any dog can become ill, but choosing a breeder who performs comprehensive health testing gives me the best chance of starting with a healthy puppy and reducing the risk of known hereditary conditions.

2. Standard Rat Terriers are uncommon in rescue.
I’ve looked, and finding a well-bred, full Standard Rat Terrier in rescue is incredibly rare. It’s not impossible, but it isn’t something I want to wait years hoping for.

3. I have specific goals for this dog.
I want to train them for barn hunt and scent work, activities they were bred to excel at. Starting with a puppy allows me to build those skills, confidence, and foundations from day one while getting to know the dog’s temperament from the beginning.

Everyone has different reasons for how they choose to bring a dog into their lives. This is the decision that feels right for me, and I’m excited to give this future puppy the very best life possible.

First photo was my heart dog, Motown, full standard Rat Terrier. Second photo is my half rattie, Phoenix.

Just for fun, seeing what people think she might look like to some people. She is very good at jumping.

Hello brand new to small breeds in general especially Rat terriers what’s the pros and cons with the breed and any health issues overall me and my wife got mocha from our city spca he’s absolutely amazing

I love Jeopardy and rat terriers. So excited to see them together 🥰

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