Rat Terrier Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match
Connect with responsible Rat Terrier breeders and find the ideal breeding partner for your American original
Understanding the Rat Terrier Breed
Essential characteristics to consider when breeding these exceptional American originals
Weight Range
Height at Shoulder
Life Expectancy
12-18 years
Exceptional longevity
Temperament
Intelligent, Loyal
American original
Key Traits for Breeding Consideration
Discover what makes Rat Terriers exceptional breeding companions and why they're treasured American originals
American Farm Dog Heritage
TRUE AMERICAN ORIGINALDeveloped on American farms for unmatched versatility. Rat Terriers combine working ability with exceptional companionship, creating the perfect balance for modern families.
Years of American heritage
Preserving American farm dog legacy
Three Size Varieties
PERFECT FIT FOR ALLFrom apartment-friendly miniatures to farm-ready standards, Rat Terriers offer the perfect size for every family while maintaining the same exceptional temperament.
Vermin Hunter Supreme
WORKING EXCELLENCELegendary rat-catching ability that earned their name. Natural hunting instincts make them invaluable on farms and perfect for earthdog competitions.
Exceptional Longevity Excellence
12-18 YEAR LIFESPANOne of the longest-lived dog breeds! When you breed Rat Terriers, you're creating companions that will be with families for nearly two decades of love and loyalty.
Longevity Comparison
Your breeding choices create decades of companionship
Loyal Family Guardian
DEVOTED PROTECTORFearless defenders despite their size. Rat Terriers form deep bonds with their families and alert to any unusual activity, making them excellent watchdogs.
These exceptional traits make Rat Terriers one of America's most versatile and rewarding breeds
Rat Terrier Breeding Guidelines
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible and successful Rat Terrier breeding
Optimal Breeding Age
EXCEPTIONAL LONGEVITYWait until 2 years for full maturity. Rat Terriers often remain fertile and healthy into their senior years due to exceptional longevity!
Health Testing
SIMPLE EXCELLENCERemarkably healthy breed with exceptional longevity!
Breeding Frequency
QUALITY FOCUSEDFemales
Once per year maximum
Recovery
Skip at least one heat cycle
Despite their hardiness, adequate recovery ensures long breeding careers. Most limit to 4-5 litters lifetime.
Size Variety Standards
THREE VARIETIESEnsures safe whelping for mothers
Variety Standards:
Match sizes appropriately for safe breeding outcomes.
Genetic Awareness
COLOR & TRAITSColor Dilution
Avoid blue x blue or chocolate x chocolate
Natural Bobtail
Test before breeding two bobtails
Working Ability
Preserve hunting & vermin instincts
Understanding genetics preserves breed excellence and health.
Special Considerations
BREED-SPECIFICTemperament Priority
Select for intelligence & loyalty
Preserve Heritage
Maintain farm dog versatility
Early Socialization
Critical 3-14 week period
Exercise Needs
High energy requires active homes
Rat Terriers Available for Breeding Near You
Connect with verified Rat Terrier owners for safe and ethical breeding
Ozbourne
Rat Terrier
Max
Rat Terrier mix
Sanji
Rat Terrier mix
Jimmy
Rat Terrier
Dottie
Rat Terrier mix
Gizmo
Rat Terrier
Ali
Rat Terrier mix
Tiny
Rat Terrier mix
How Rat Terrier Breeding Works
From profile to puppies - your rat terrier journey in 4 simple steps
Create Your Pet's Profile
Set up a detailed profile with photos, health records, and pedigree information
Discover Perfect Matches
Browse verified breeding partners based on breed, location, and compatibility
Connect & Communicate
Message owners directly to discuss breeding plans and health certifications
Successful Breeding
Meet safely, complete breeding agreements, and welcome healthy puppies
Create Your Pet's Profile
Set up a detailed profile with photos, health records, and pedigree information
Discover Perfect Matches
Browse verified breeding partners based on breed, location, and compatibility
Connect & Communicate
Message owners directly to discuss breeding plans and health certifications
Successful Breeding
Meet safely, complete breeding agreements, and welcome healthy puppies
Why Choose Petmeetly for Rat Terrier Breeding?
Join thousands of responsible rat terrier owners who trust us for quality breeding connections
Verified Profiles Only
Every breeder is verified, ensuring you connect with genuine, responsible pet owners.
Location-Based Matching
Find breeding partners near you to make meetings convenient and stress-free.
Smart Filtering
Customize your search with detailed filters for breed, age, health status, and more.
Direct Communication
Chat directly with pet owners to discuss all details before making any commitments.
Ready to Find Your Rat Terrier's Perfect Match?
Join thousands of responsible rat terrier owners who've found quality breeding partners on Petmeetly.
Get Started NowSuccess Stories from Rat Terrier Breeders
Real stories from dog owners who found perfect breeding matches on Petmeetly
I am very happy with the app, especially how you checked in to see if I had found a mate for Archie. We have found one and are currently in the mating process. It has been a bit quiet, and I have only received one inquiry. Others I approached have not responded yet.
Sim
Victoria, AU
We found a mate for Lucy almost instantly through Petmeetly. Although we’ve already matched her, we’d like to keep our options open in case the mate becomes unavailable when Lucy is ready. Overall, it has been a pleasant experience, and the timely reminder about a possible match was very helpful.
Suzanne Sear
Ontario, CA
I can’t thank Petmeetly enough for their services. Thanks to them, we met Marley for Yara and had a litter of gorgeous standard poodle puppies.
Diana
Texas, US
Building Stronger Rat Terrier Bloodlines Together
Celebrating remarkable health and exceptional longevity that makes Rat Terriers one of the healthiest breeds
Joint & Orthopedic Health
EXCELLENT PROGNOSISPatellar Stability
OFA patella evaluation ensures stable kneecaps. Most Rat Terriers have excellent knee structure supporting their active lifestyle.
Vision & Eye Health
EXCELLENT OUTLOOKAnnual Eye Exams
CERF examinations maintain clear vision
PLL Testing
Primary Lens Luxation testing available
Simple testing ensures lifelong vision
Cardiac & Metabolic
LOW RISKCardiac Wellness
Optional cardiac screening available. Rat Terriers typically have strong hearts matching their energetic personalities.
Metabolic Health
Maintain proper weight to prevent diabetes. Natural athleticism helps maintain metabolic health.
Skin & Coat Vitality
MANAGEABLESome lines prone to skin allergies. Careful breeding selection and proper nutrition minimize issues. Strong genetics and proper care maintain healthy skin and coat.
Proper nutrition ensures healthy coats
Dental Health
BREED CONSIDERATIONRegular dental care prevents issues. Good oral hygiene ensures comfortable eating throughout their long lives.
Regular care maintains dental health
Exceptional Longevity
12-18 YEARS!One of the longest-lived breeds! Hardy American farm dog heritage gives them remarkable constitution.
Your breeding creates decades of companionship
Creating Excellence Through American Heritage
BREED ADVANCEMENTBy breeding Rat Terriers, you're preserving a true American original. Their farm dog heritage provides exceptional health, longevity, and versatility that few breeds can match.
Your commitment makes a difference:
Breed Excellence Metrics
America's healthiest heritage breed
Explore Popular Dog Breeds
Discover breeding guides for different dog breeds and find the perfect match for your breeding program
Ready to Find Your Rat Terrier's Perfect Match?
Join our community of responsible Rat Terrier breeders preserving America's healthiest heritage breed