Scent Work Class
Happy Ratters
Happy Ratters: Scent Detection Training
Unleash Your Dog’s Natural Instincts Through Scent Work
Happy Ratters is a fun, structured rat-hunting sport that taps into your dog’s natural instincts while emphasizing safety, independence, and problem-solving. These classes provide an engaging outlet for dogs who enjoy searching and hunting behaviors in a controlled, ethical environment.
Happy Ratters classes are part of our Sport Dog Group Training pathway and are open to teams looking for an enriching sport experience—no prior experience required.
What Is Happy Ratters?
Happy Ratters is similar to the sport of Barn Hunt, but designed for urban and indoor environments. Dogs search for safely housed rats while navigating tunnels, bridges, and defined hunt areas. The sport prioritizes rat welfare, thoughtful training progression, and allowing dogs to work independently while still supported by their handler.
Happy Ratters Classes
Build confidence, independence, and drive through ethical rat-hunting training.
Happy Ratters classes focus on helping dogs:
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Learn to hunt independently and confidently
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Develop problem-solving skills within a search area
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Navigate bridges, tunnels, and burrows
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Build clear hunt behavior at their own pace
Exercises are adjusted based on each dog’s experience level, making classes appropriate for both brand-new teams and returning students.
Who These Classes Are For
Happy Ratters classes are suitable for:
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Dogs of any age
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Dogs of all breeds and sizes
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Teams brand new to the sport or continuing their training journey
Class Structure
Happy Ratters classes are offered as drop-in classes, allowing teams to:
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Train consistently without long-term session commitments
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Progress at their own pace
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Attend as often as fits their schedule
This flexible format supports ongoing learning while keeping training fun and accessible.
Sport Dog Loyalty Program
Participation in eligible Happy Ratters drop-in classes counts toward our Sport Dog Loyalty Program, rewarding consistency and long-term commitment to training.
👉 Learn more HERE.
Why Train Happy Ratters at The Noble Beast?
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Strong emphasis on rat welfare and ethical sport participation
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Supportive environment for new handlers
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Progressive skill development without pressure
- Train where you trial! TNB Rat Pack typically hosts two Happy Ratters Trials each year
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Integrated into our broader Sport Dog Group Training pathway
Our Happy Ratters Class Instructor
Cheryl Kuntz CPDT-KA
Cheryl is a Certified Dog Trainer with experience in both K9 Nose Work and Happy Ratters. She teaches our Happy Ratters drop-in classes and Intro to Nose Work sessions under the guidance of Certified Nose Work Instructor, Jessica. Cheryl and her dog, Kramer, have earned titles in both sports and love sharing the joy of scent detection with new teams. Her calm, supportive approach helps dogs build confidence and have fun while learning to hunt!
🐀 Ready to Take Your Happy Ratters Skills to the Next Level?
For teams interested in trialing or competing in rat-hunting sports, Happy Ratters provides an opportunity to showcase your dog’s natural hunting abilities in a structured, rule-governed setting. The organization hosts trials and offers titling opportunities for teams looking to take their training beyond class.
To get started, handlers will need to create an account and register their dog with Happy Ratters through Secreterrier, the official registration system for the sport.
👉 Register a new dog with Happy Ratters
Whether you’re preparing for your first trial or working toward future goals, our instructors are happy to help answer questions about registration, rules, trial readiness, and how skills practiced in class translate to competition.
What to Expect in Class
K9 Nose Work & Happy Ratters classes are a one-dog-at-a-time activity. Each dog will have their own station with seating and a crate, separated by dividers to reduce distractions. When not actively searching, dogs should remain crated.
What to Bring
✔ A well-fitted collar or harness and a 4–6 ft leash
✔ Soft, high-value treats (no dry biscuits!)
✔ A crate cover (optional)
✔ Chews, stuffed Kongs, or snuffle mats for crate time
✔ A copy of your dog’s up-to-date vaccination records
Cancellation Policy
Your registration reserves your spot in class. Refunds are available under the following conditions:
7+ days before class: Full refund (minus processing fees)
Within 7 days of class start: 50% refund
After class start: No refunds
For drop-in classes, cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance to receive credit toward a future class.