Instructions
Purchase a rat terrier puppy from a reputable dog breeder. Selecting a puppy from a breeder ensures that know the history of the animal and that it has been properly cared for. Shelters occasionally have purebred puppies, but often these dogs have had traumatic pasts and it will require extra time and effort to build a trusting relationship with the animal.
Puppy-proof your house before bringing home your new family member. Remove any clutter from the floors and put away any breakable or expensive items. Put away anything that has high sentimental value. Remember, your new puppy does not know which behaviors are acceptable and which are not.
Potty train your rat terrier. Some owners prefer crate training for this purpose. A puppy crate is a short-term enclosure. Make the crate an enjoyable place by adding a blanket and a few toys. Dogs will generally not soil the area where they sleep, so using a crate can be helpful in potty training your terrier. Crate training can help you and your rat terrier to establish a regular schedule for when he is taken outside.
Purchase puppy pads to help housebreak your terrier, by themselves or in conjunction with a crate. These can be found at most pet supply stores. Puppy pads are absorbent pads that are placed on the floor. When you notice signs that your puppy needs to use the bathroom, such as pacing and whining, take your puppy over to the puppy pad. It is helpful if you consistently use the same command with your puppy and eventually he will learn to relieve himself on command.
Decide whether to train your puppy yourself or take him to obedience school. Unless you are a professional dog trainer, obedience school is recommended. This is also a great way for your puppy to socialize with other puppies. Puppy training can essentially be broken into two categories: behavioral and obedience training. The former is for breaking bad habits, such as jumping on the couch or bed, while the latter is geared toward teaching your puppy to respond to your commands. Consistency and repetition are imperative when training your puppy.
Split your training sessions into 10- to 15-minute lessons, two or three times a day. This will help your dog to stay focused. Begin by speaking a command, such as "sit" or "stay." Use a loud, clear voice. Remember that your puppy is learning and it can take some time before your pet learns to respond to commands. Eventually, your dog will associate your commands with the desired action. Always praise and reward your puppy, either with pats or a treat, when he performs the correct action.
Use hand gestures to help your puppy learn certain commands, such as "sit" and "come." For example, with "sit," begin by holding your hand with the palm open above your head. As you speak the command "sit," lower your hand downward. As your puppy progresses with his training, you will not need to use hand gestures, as he will learn to respond simply to the verbal command.
Take your puppy to the vet for regular checkups. The best way to prevent health issues early is by making sure your pet receives his scheduled vaccinations and visits the vet regularly.
How to Raise Rat Terriers as a Hobby
The rat terrier is a breed of dog that is extremely intelligent and highly adaptable to various environments and situations. You can expect a rat terrier to live from 12 to 18 years. You should not raise more than one rat terrier at a time, as the dogs will often bond with each other instead of recognizing you as the leader of the pack. Rat terriers usually respond well to obedience training.