Urban Hunting Games for Dogs

Because your dog was born for this!

Happy Ratters lets dogs do what their noses were made to do — hunt — in a safe, supportive, fun environment. It builds confidence, strengthens teamwork, and gives your dog the kind of brain-tiring enrichment that no walk around the block can match. You are encouraged to treat, reward, and party with your dog right at the rat. And that spirit carries ringside, where Happy Ratters folks cheer each other on and celebrate every milestone — from first qualifying runs to the coveted XREX title.

Nope, and all of them!

Happy Ratters is one of the most beginner-friendly dog sports out there. No prior experience required — if your dog has a nose, they're qualified.

All breeds, mixes, sizes, and ages (6 months and up) are welcome. Even shy or anxious dogs often blossom here, since dogs search the ring one at a time.

Yes!

Deaf dogs, blind and vision-impaired dogs, three-legged dogs, and dogs in wheelchairs are all welcome in Happy Ratters. Blind or vision-impaired dogs may wear goggles or a halo to protect their eyes, and any dog may wear booties on slippery flooring. The judge may ask a handler to leave the ring if a dog appears to be in distress — dog health and safety always comes first.

Yes, no, and no!

Our rats are our valued teammates in this sport and are trained to be happy and comfy in their tubes. They earn snacks for participating and can opt out (decline to go into the tube) if they don't want to play.

If you've ever been owned by a pet rat, you know that these tiny-but-cheeky creatures are both clever and greedy. The enrichment that our beloved pet rats gain from this sport keeps them squeaking back for more! If the sport ends up not being any individual rat's cup-of-tea (wheel of cheese?), we respect that, too.

We're not just dog-lovers, we're animal lovers... including our wee whiskered ratties.

🐀 Not a fan of rats? That's okay! The rats are secured in ventilated, dog-proof tubes, so that you never have to see or handle them. 😉

Answer courtesy of Paws Abilities Dog Training of Southeast, MN — used with permission.

Your dog enters an enclosed ring filled with clean, city-alley-style props — boxes, bags, barrels, tunnels (no straw, no sneezing!). Somewhere in there, rats are hidden in their secure tubes. Your dog searches off-leash while you direct, and when that nose says "found one!", you call it. Dogs earn points for finds, plus bonus fun like crossing bridges and diving through burrows. Runs are short (a few minutes), the vibe is playful, and yes — you get to reward your dog right there in the ring.

Head over to our Get Started page for everything you need to know. And if you'd like to see the sport in action first, come watch a trial — spectators are always welcome, and it's a great way to see what the fuss is about. When you're ready to play, sign up for a beginner class or enter a trial. Bring your dog, some high-value treats, and a sense of humor. Your dog will handle the rest.