Hope Springs Farms - Rat Terriers

"Pound for pound, the most under-valued dog around."

Our goal as Rat Terrier breeders is to produce puppies that have "staying power" -- that is, we want to breed puppies that have what it takes to stay in their home. This means the puppy has to be healthy, trainable, and intelligent enough to adapt to change. They naturally have the instinct to hunt for rodents and you could say, we breed for "Rat-i-tude".

In our earlier life, when living in Massachusetts and Wyoming, we raised Siberian Huskies and Scottish Terriers. Then, after our special friends had lead long and happy lives and passed on, we decided to stop raising puppies. Over the years, all too often, we were saddened when good dogs and good people became disenchanted with each other.

Then we met Orley while visiting Cheryl's favorite Uncle in California who was 85. We'll cover that story at another time. Orley was followed by Titus and soon our resolve had changed. Living with Titus for a couple years convinced us that it would be fun to share these wonderful dogs with other people who valued the same canine qualities that we do.

In spite of our goal, we are realistic enough to know that Rat Terriers are not the right choice for everyone. On the other hand, we are convinced that Ratties exceed the expectations in the human/canine relationship more often than most breeds. The quality of this relationship depends most on the human component. The Rattie is ready and willing to succeed - the question is whether its owner will do their part and provide the training, stability and continued socialization necessary and it all takes time.

You will find the Rat Terrier to be smart, lovable and loyal.