Happy Ratters is a fun, exciting sport where dogs of any breed and experience level can hunt for protected rats hidden throughout urban-inspired courses.
Save the date: June 11–13, 2027 — happening just outside Albany, NY. Learn more
As of July 1, 2026, Happy Ratters titles are officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club. Learn more
Dogs love to sniff. Happy Ratters turns that natural instinct into an exciting sport where dogs search for safely protected rats hidden throughout creative urban-themed courses.
Because your dog was born for this! Happy Ratters lets dogs do what their noses were made to do — hunt — in a safe, supportive, seriously fun environment. It builds confidence, deepens your teamwork, and gives your dog the kind of brain-tiring enrichment that no walk around the block can match. Best of all, the sport is built around positivity: you are encouraged to treat, reward, and celebrate with your dog right at the rat. And that positive spirit extends ringside, too — Happy Ratters competitors are known for cheering each other on, sharing advice, and celebrating every success, whether it's your first qualifying run or your XREX title, the highest honor in the sport.
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, 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.
Easy! 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 at the entry level. Bring your dog, some high-value treats, and a sense of humor. Your dog will handle the rest.