Rat Terrier Rescue Canada

06/23/2026

Sonny | Rat Terrier Mix | Male | 1 year | 8 lbs. | Fostered in Bala | Available

Meet Sonny aka Mr. Sunshine. He is a 7.7 pound one year old Rat Terrier with a lot of personality.

Sonny is timid at first but with love and attention will blossom into a sweet, affectionate, cuddly puppy. He loves to be near his human and will follow you everywhere.

Sonny will sleep through the night but prefers to sleep in your bed. He enjoys being outside to do zoomies or prance around the yard, so a fenced in yard would be ideal, as he'll feel safer.

Sonny is good with children and other dogs his size; he is afraid of large dogs. Our cat is a bully so Sonny avoids cats. Also Sonny like to play & chew his own toys.

He will require more training as his housetraining and walking on a leash are ongoing. Sonny is a quiet boy and has only barked at unfamiliar sounds a few times.

Sonny was abandoned so he has some separation anxiety; he cries when left alone but is not destructive. He is also underweight so will need someone who understands that need.

Sonny has a quirky personality and would bring joy to any household. He just wants to be loved and feel safe. He is sweet, shy boy.

Adoption Fee: $650.00

To apply to adopt this dog go to: http://forms.gle/Ev16pQeQ2zAZWLig6

06/21/2026

Rat Terrier Rescue Canada has lost one of its founding members. Rescue warrior, Deb Nissen, was taken from us by cancer this morning, June 21, 2026. She had just celebrated her 71st birthday.

“Back around the time that the new Millenium was rolling in, a lady with a big heart was helping to save the lives of a few dogs each year. Her mom and one friend helped her out when they could, but they found it very difficult to move the dogs long distances… In 2004 a few more people were looking for little Rat Terriers, and through information from a breeder … we were able to get in touch with each other through emails. By 2007 we decided to form our own rescue and chose the name Rat Terrier Rescue Canada and at first only rescued Rat Terriers. We were so excited to save 25 dogs that very first year! Now we choose many different breeds, different ages, health issues and super healthy dogs. We take the dogs that no one else wants – those that are on the kill list.”
Words spoken by Deb about Rat Terrier Rescue Canada.

******

Deb Nissen worked tirelessly for the dogs… it was always about the dogs. In 2007, she, and those with her, had a vision... to bring rat terriers to Canada! She was also responsible for bringing in many of us volunteers … volunteers who started as adopters and then foster parents or vice versa. And some of us went on to volunteer in other ways: transporters, coordinating foster applications, adoption applications, social media, fundraising events, intake of dogs, communicating with vets, the foster parents down south and working with the border brokers to bring dogs across, to name many of things that go on behind the scenes. Petfinder says RTRC had 2,054 dogs adopted over the last 13 years (at least). We know there are a lot more because not all our dogs make it to Petfinder because they got adopted before they were posted.

There must have been a wonderful, furry celebration at the rainbow bridge this morning!

06/20/2026

Winston | Shih-tzu Mix | Male | 2 years | 20lbs. | Fostered in Wallaceburg | Available

Hi! My name is Winston. We think I am a Shih-tzu mix. I only weigh 20 lbs! I'm just 2 yrs. old and people tell me that I'm a sweet boy.

I'm so lucky that I came to RTRC. They quite literally saved my life as the shelter had me on the euthanasia list. Now that the worst of my life is over, I would totally love to just cuddle and love someone again. When I first meet you, I can be a little shy, but once I'm comfortable, I like to stand on my hind feet, kind of like I'm dancing and put my feet in your hands giving you a high five or should I say 10. Oh how happy this makes me feel! Do you want to do some high 5s?

Wherever you look, I am there all the way with you. I will just lie at your feet if this is where you would like me to be or I will crawl right up into your lap if you let me. Oh how I love keeping you company! I love the warmth when I sit with you. Makes me feel loved! Look out! I might sneak in a few kisses too. Just a heads up that I do love belly rubs! (hee hee).

I am not too bad at walking on the leash. I'm a quick learner and I know that if you are willing to work with me, that I will be the best doggie ever. I am game for car rides and I ride along quietly.

When I go to do my business outside, I get a treat when I come in! Oh my! How fab is that? But my foster mom always gives me a treat and even praises me every time I do things right! It's so exciting and really makes me want to do things right!

At bedtime my foster mom is the greatest, because she lets me snuggle up next to her all night long. It's the greatest! Sometimes I reach out to touch her just to make sure she's still there. I cant believe how lucky I am. Again maybe some belly rubs too. Yahoo!

I am very good in the house while you're away. My foster mom gives me chew sticks so I don't chew on anything I shouldn't. She's so smart; I never get a chance to even think about doing something naughty because I'm so busy with my chewies.

I love hanging out and playing with my foster siblings but I know I would be happy as an only dog too. I haven't met any felines yet. I haven't really learned about toys yet. In my past life there were none. So just maybe we could learn these things together. Oh what fun we could have!

In return, here are some things I can offer:
- A delightful and fun personality
- Lots of wet doggie kisses and love
- Loads of high 5s with maybe some dancing
- A faithful and loyal companion
Whether you are looking to have your first fluff ball or just looking for a gentle soul with a zest for life -- I would be the perfect dog for you.

So lets fill in that application form, and maybe get started on making some memories together. High 5.

Adoption Fee: $650.00

To apply to adopt this dog go to: http://forms.gle/Ev16pQeQ2zAZWLig6

06/20/2026

Spike | Chihuahua-terrier mix | Male | 1 year | 14lbs. | Fostered in Kitchener | Available

Meet Spike!

Spike is a 1-year-old, 14 lb male Chihuahua with a huge heart and an even sweeter personality. This handsome little guy is looking for his forever family and has so much love to give.

Spike has an amazing temperament and is great with kids. He loves getting outside for walks, exploring new places, and soaking up time with his people. He's also a social little guy who loves to play with other dogs his size and enjoys having furry friends around.

Don't let his small size fool you. Spike has a big personality and lots of love to share. He would thrive in a home that can give him attention, affection, and plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure.

If you're looking for a loyal, playful, and affectionate companion, Spike might just be your perfect match

Adoption Fee: $650.00

To apply to adopt this dog go to: http://forms.gle/Ev16pQeQ2zAZWLig6

06/17/2026

ADOPTION PENDING!

Persephone | Jack Russell Terrier Mix | Female | 1 year | 15lbs. | Fostered in Chatham |

Hi friends, My name is Persephone and I am a 1 year old, female, 15 lb adorable Jack Russell Terrier cross looking for my furever home. I have come all the way from Texas just to find you!

I come house trained, but still require frequent potty breaks to remain successful. I settle quickly and sleep quietly in a crate at night but would likely prefer to sleep with my person. My foster Mom says I am joyful, smart and food motivated so I am easy to train. I have a little separation anxiety and will cry or bark for a couple of minutes after you leave so an apartment may not be suitable.

Some of my favourite activities are following you around, playing with my toys and chasing balls which I frequently bring back to you. I am not a big chewer. If given a bone, I would just as soon hide it as chew on it. I will keep it in my mouth
until I find the perfect spot for it. Neck scratches and belly tickles are really appreciated and calm me down immediately.

I don't have a lot of experience with socialization so I need slow introductions to
new situations and people. Speaking of people, because I can be boisterous and I love to jump, I would do be best if any children in the house are older or dog savvy kids.

Like most terriers, I have a high prey drive so a fenced yard is preferred and a secure leash and harness when on walks is a must. I will admit, my play style with other dogs leaves a lot to be desired so I would do best as the only pet in the family where I can have all of your affection and attention.

I'm sure you will fall in love with me as quickly as I fall in love with you. Foster Mom says I bonded easily and learned my new house routine within a few days. She thinks I'm precious!

Adoption Fee: $650.00

06/10/2026

ADOPTION PENDING!

Pebbles | Rat Terrier Mix | Male | 14 weeks | 2 lbs.

THIS DOG IS FOSTERED IN MICHIGAN AND WILL COME TO CANADA WITH AN ACCEPTED ADOPTION CONTRACT. PUPPIES UNDER THE AGE OF 8 MONTHS CANNOT COME TO CANADA WITHOUT AN APPROVED ADOPTER. You will not be able to meet your puppy ahead of pick up date - Rat Terrier Rescue Canada will attempt to provide you with as many pictures and videos as possible between a confirmed adoption and pick up.

Pebbles is a 14-week-old, male Rat Terrier mix puppy who may only weigh 2 pounds, but he has enough charm and personality to fill a whole room! This tiny sweetheart is playful, affectionate, and absolutely loves being held.

He has never met a person or dog he didn't like and is always ready to hand out puppy kisses to everyone he meets.

Pebbles is a curious little explorer who approaches life with wonder and excitement. He enjoys playing with his brother Kai, splashing in water, and discovering new things every day. One of his most adorable quirks is his habit of sitting right in his food bowl while he eats something, that never fails to make people smile!

Like any young puppy, Pebbles is still learning the basics and is not yet house or crate trained. However, he sleeps through the night quietly in his crate and doesn't make a sound until morning. He was wonderful during bath time and seems to love water just as much as he loves his meals.

Pebbles is looking for a family that will help him continue to grow, learn, and thrive. In return, he'll provide endless love, laughter, and companionship. If you're searching for a tiny best friend with a huge heart, Pebbles may be the perfect match for you!

At Rat Terrier Rescue Canada we pride ourselves on matching our dogs with their best furever homes. Please see this document, written by a previous adopter, on our Adoption Process, and information about adopting rescue dogs coming from outside Canada: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Zdt9OTOlu5EA4xKEUeLTKGyVxRqwD3Ev/view?usp=sharing

Adoption Fee: $775.00

06/09/2026

ADOPTION PENDING!

Kai | Rat Terrier Mix | Male | 14 weeks | 3 lbs. |

THIS DOG IS FOSTERED IN MICHIGAN, AND WILL COME TO CANADA WITH AN ACCEPTED ADOPTION CONTRACT. PUPPIES UNDER THE AGE OF 8 MONTHS CANNOT COME TO CANADA WITHOUT AN APPROVED ADOPTER. You will not be able to meet your puppy ahead of pick up date - Rat Terrier Rescue Canada will attempt to provide you with as many pictures and videos as possible between a confirmed adoption and pick up.

Meet Kai!

Kai is a 14-week-old (born in February 2026) , male, Rat Terrier mix puppy with a big personality packed into his tiny 3-pound body. This sweet little guy loves everyone he meets... people, dogs, and anyone willing to offer a cuddle. Kai is incredibly affectionate and generous with his puppy kisses, which seem to be endless!

Like any puppy, Kai is curious about the world around him and loves exploring new sights, sounds, and adventures. He enjoys playing with his brother Pebbles, splashing around in water, and, of course, mealtime.

While he can be a little vocal when he's eagerly waiting for his food, he is otherwise a quiet and easygoing pup.

Kai is still very much a baby and is not yet house or crate trained, but he is already sleeping through the night in his crate without a peep until around 6:30 a.m. He handled bath time like a champ and seems to have a natural love for water.

If you're looking for a loving, playful companion who will happily shower you with affection, Kai may be the perfect addition to your family!

At Rat Terrier Rescue Canada we pride ourselves on matching our dogs with their best furever homes. Please see this document, written by a previous adopter, on our Adoption Process, and information about adopting rescue dogs coming from outside Canada: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Zdt9OTOlu5EA4xKEUeLTKGyVxRqwD3Ev/view?usp=sharing

Adoption Fee: $775.00

06/08/2026