The rupee today appreciated by 8 paise against the dollar in early trade as exporters sold the US currency, which weakened against other major currencies.

At the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) market, the local unit rose by 8 paise to 46.48 a dollar. The rupee had ended 28 paise lower at 46.56/57 yesterday.

Dealers said dollar's losses against major currencies and other Asian units, boosted the rupee sentiment.