Are you tired of pesky rodents invading your home or garden? Look no further than man’s best friend for a solution. Dogs have been used for centuries to keep these unwanted guests at bay, thanks to their keen instincts and incredible agility. In this guide, we’ll explore nine dog breeds that are exceptionally skilled at catching rats and other rodents. From energetic terriers to tenacious hounds, these canine companions not only offer loyalty and affection but also serve as brilliant natural pest controllers. Discover which breed might be your perfect partner in maintaining a rodent-free environment.
Rats, beware! These 9 dog breeds are your worst nightmare. Bred by generations of expert breeders, these dogs have mastered the art of hunting rats and other rodents. From burrowing into tight spaces to chasing pests across open ground, their skills are unmatched.
Did you know a single rat can produce 2,000 offspring annually? That’s enough to send shivers down anyone’s spine. Thankfully, these dogs were born for the job. They’re not just rat killers—they’re loyal, intelligent, and make great companions too.
Whether you’re dealing with a rodent invasion or just want a good ratter to patrol your property, these breeds have you covered. They combine history, hunting instincts, and charm in one furry package. Ready to meet your new best friend and pest control expert? Let’s dive in!
9 Dog Breeds Ideal for Catching Rats
1. Russell Terrier
|
Speed |
25 mph |
|
Bite Force |
150 PSI |
|
Trainability |
High – loves challenges. |
Ah, the Jack Russell Terrier—the Michael Jordan of rat catching. This small but mighty terrier is a bundle of energy, weighing around 13-17 pounds and standing 10-15 inches tall. Originally bred for fox hunting, their high energy and agility make them excellent at hunting rats. These dogs excel at sniffing out rodents in the most unlikely places, making them champions of vermin control.
Their keen sense of smell and lightning-quick reflexes mean rats don’t stand a chance. But beware, their high energy can lead to a bit of chaos if they’re not engaged. Think of them as furry hurricanes with a nose for pest control.
Training these clever hunters isn’t a challenge—it’s a game for them. Russell Terriers thrive on agility exercises and love to be mentally stimulated suggests WebMD. They’re incredibly loyal to their owners but need consistent routines to keep that strong prey drive in check.
Care for your Jack Russell is straightforward: exercise, love, and maybe a touch of patience. These high-energy dogs love to dig and chase, so a secure yard is a must. And yes, they’ll share your lap—after they’ve cleared it of all rats, of course.
2. Dachshund
|
Speed |
20 mph |
|
Bite Force |
230 PSI |
|
Trainability |
Moderate – stubborn streak. |
Ever seen a dog designed like a hotdog but built to hunt? Enter the Dachshund, the underground hero of hunting mice and other small rodents. Originally bred to hunt badgers (yes, badgers!), these fearless hunters are the masters of burrowing into tight spaces to flush out prey.
Standing just 8-9 inches tall but packed with courage, Dachshunds have a strong prey drive and love catching small rodents. Don’t let their comical appearance fool you—this companion dog has an impressive history of rat-catching abilities, making them one of the best dogs for rural settings or controlling rats.
Training a Dachshund can be a bit of a negotiation, thanks to their stubborn streak. Patience and consistency are key, as is a strong dose of humor when they inevitably decide to “think for themselves.” Remember, these little dogs were bred for hunting, so they like to work at their own pace.
Caring for a Dachshund involves regular exercise to keep those stubby legs strong and a healthy diet to avoid weight gain (no one likes a pudgy hunter). Oh, and don’t be surprised if they dig holes—they were bred for it.
3. Cairn Terrier
|
Speed |
22 mph |
|
Bite Force |
200 PSI |
|
Trainability |
High – eager to please. |
Meet the Cairn Terrier, a small dog with big ambitions. Hailing from the Scottish Highlands, these scrappy pups were bred specifically to hunt vermin, including rats and mice, in rocky terrains. Their agility and intelligence make them excellent hunters, able to sniff out and catch small rodents like it’s their day job.
Standing about 10 inches tall and weighing 13-14 pounds, Cairn Terriers are small but mighty, with boundless energy and a strong prey drive adds VCA. They’re also incredibly versatile, able to transition seamlessly between killing rodents and lounging with their favorite human.
Training a Cairn is a breeze—they’re sharp as a tack and love to please their owners. Just be ready to provide plenty of stimulation, as these little hunters get bored quickly. Agility courses, games, or a good rat hunt will keep them happy.
When it comes to care, Cairn Terriers are low-maintenance but require regular brushing to keep their coat looking sharp. As natural diggers, they might redecorate your garden if you’re not careful. Still, you’ll forgive them after they help with controlling rats.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
|
Speed |
18 mph |
|
Bite Force |
120 PSI |
|
Trainability |
Moderate – independent nature. |
Ah, the Yorkie, proof that good things come in small packages. Weighing a mere 4-7 pounds and standing 7-8 inches tall, this pint-sized pup was bred for hunting rats in textile mills. Don’t let their glamorous coat fool you—beneath all that fluff lies one of the best rat-catching dogs around.
Yorkies have a strong prey drive and are fantastic at hunting mice, rats, and other small animals. They’re fearless and determined, often chasing prey much larger than themselves. These terrier breeds were originally bred to excel in vermin control, and they haven’t lost their edge.
Training a Yorkie is part comedy, part challenge. They’re clever but have an independent streak that requires patience. Positive reinforcement and plenty of praise work wonders, but don’t expect them to follow orders blindly—they’ve got too much sass for that.
Caring for a Yorkie means balancing their beauty routine with their adventurous side. Regular grooming keeps their coat fabulous, while daily exercise satisfies their hunting instincts. Despite their size, they’re excellent hunters who’ll happily protect your home from rats and mice—and maybe charm your heart along the way.
5. Rat Terrier
|
Speed |
25 mph |
|
Bite Force |
150 PSI |
|
Trainability |
High – intelligent and eager. |
Say hello to the aptly named Rat Terrier, a breed specifically bred to hunt rats and other small rodents. Weighing 10-25 pounds and standing about 10-18 inches tall, these energetic dogs excel in pest control, thanks to their speed, agility, and sharp instincts according to PetMD.
Once a farmer’s best friend, Rat Terriers were used for controlling rats and vermin on rural properties. They’re quick thinkers and excellent hunters, with a strong prey drive that makes them one of the best dogs for killing rodents. Plus, their stamina means they can outlast even the sneakiest pests.
Training a Rat Terrier is a dream for dog lovers—they’re smart, eager, and love a challenge. These high-energy dogs need regular mental stimulation, so activities like agility training, puzzle toys, or actual rat-catching will keep them sharp.
Caring for a Rat Terrier is relatively simple. They’re low-maintenance with short coats but need plenty of exercise to burn off that energy. With their keen sense and loyal nature, you’ll have a companion dog who’s both a cuddle bug and a vigilant ratter.
6. Bedlington Terrier
|
Speed |
27 mph |
|
Bite Force |
180 PSI |
|
Trainability |
Moderate – requires patience. |
With its lamb-like appearance, the Bedlington Terrier might look too delicate to hunt rodents, but don’t be fooled—this breed was bred to hunt. Weighing 17-23 pounds and standing 15-17 inches tall, Bedlingtons combine elegance with a strong prey drive.
Originally bred in the mining towns of England, Bedlington Terriers were excellent ratters and hunters of other vermin. Their speed and agility make them great at catching small rodents, and their intelligence ensures they won’t give up the chase. Who knew killing rodents could look so stylish?
Training a Bedlington Terrier requires a mix of patience and creativity. They’re intelligent but can be a bit independent, so keeping things fun and engaging is key. They thrive in environments where they can both hunt and cuddle with their owners.
Despite their fluffy appearance, Bedlingtons are low-shedding dogs that only need occasional grooming. They’re active and love outdoor adventures, making them perfect for rural settings or homes with space to roam. Just don’t let their dainty looks fool you—they’re hunters at heart.
7. Norwich Terrier
|
Speed |
20 mph |
|
Bite Force |
150 PSI |
|
Trainability |
High – loves to learn. |
The Norwich Terrier is proof that size doesn’t matter when it comes to hunting skills. Weighing about 10-12 pounds and standing 10 inches tall, this pint-sized powerhouse was bred for hunting vermin. Their small frame allows them to chase rats and mice into tight spaces where larger dogs can’t go.
CKC explains that Norwich Terriers were bred to hunt foxes and small animals, making them natural rat catchers. Their friendly and adventurous nature means they can switch from chasing prey to snuggling on the couch in no time. It’s the best of both worlds!
Training these little hunters is a joy—they’re eager, quick learners who thrive on positive reinforcement. They enjoy agility courses and games that tap into their hunting instincts, so keeping them mentally and physically stimulated is key.
Caring for a Norwich Terrier is easy, but they need regular brushing to maintain their wiry coats. They’re active dogs who love to dig and chase, so a secure yard is a must. If you’re looking for a compact yet efficient ratter, the Norwich Terrier is your dog.
8. Border Terrier
|
Speed |
24 mph |
|
Bite Force |
170 PSI |
|
Trainability |
High – obedient and intelligent. |
Meet the Border Terrier, a scruffy yet determined breed that excels at controlling rats and other vermin. Weighing 11-15 pounds and standing 10-11 inches tall, this little dynamo is one of the best dogs for rural settings and farms.
Bred to protect sheep and hunt foxes, Border Terriers also shine at hunting rats and mice. Their compact size and agility make them excellent hunters, and their loyalty to their owners ensures they’ll always give 100%—whether they’re hunting rodents or playing fetch.
Training a Border Terrier is straightforward; they’re intelligent and obedient but need a firm hand to channel their high energy and strong prey drive. Keep them engaged with activities like scent games or rat-catching exercises.
When it comes to care, Border Terriers are low-maintenance but need plenty of exercise to stay happy. Their wiry coats repel dirt and require minimal grooming, making them ideal for outdoor adventures. Add a Border Terrier to your team, and rats won’t stand a chance.
9. West Highland White Terrier
|
Speed |
20 mph |
|
Bite Force |
130 PSI |
|
Trainability |
Moderate – stubborn but smart. |
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, might be small, but they’re mighty hunters with a rich history in vermin control. Standing 10-11 inches tall and weighing 15-20 pounds, these iconic Scottish dogs were bred to hunt rodents and other small animals in the rugged highlands.
Hillspet mentions that Westies were specifically bred for hunting vermin, and their white coats were designed to stand out in the field. Their excellent hunting skills and strong prey drive make them fantastic rat catchers, but they’re just as happy lounging at home as companion dogs.
Training a Westie requires a bit of patience—they’re smart but can be stubborn. Keep sessions short, fun, and reward-driven to maintain their interest. Once trained, they’re incredibly loyal and hardworking dogs.
Caring for a Westie is a mix of grooming and exercise. Their thick, white coats need regular brushing to stay pristine, and their high energy means they thrive on outdoor adventures. Whether catching small rodents or simply chasing a ball, Westies are the ultimate mix of style and substance.
Conclusion
Rats and rodents beware—these intelligent breeds are here to save the day! From the high-energy Jack Russell Terrier to the elegant yet fierce Bedlington Terrier, these dogs excel at keeping rats off your property and your peace of mind intact. Their agility, sharp instincts, and boundless determination make them the ultimate working dogs for tackling rat populations and other pests.
While we’ve covered some of the best rat-catching breeds, honorable mentions go to the Lakeland Terrier and Fox Terrier, two classic hunters bred for controlling vermin. Let’s not forget other hardworking breeds like the feisty Manchester Terrier or the versatile Plummer Terrier, all of whom boast strong prey drives and good ratter reputations.
Whether you’re looking for a fearless pest controller or a loyal companion, many dogs on this list can multitask. Just ensure they’re socialized around cats and other pets—killing rats is great, but not your neighbors’ pets!
In conclusion, selecting the right dog breed to tackle rodent issues can be highly effective. Breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier, Dachshund, and Rat Terrier are renowned for their agility, keen senses, and instinctive hunting abilities, making them excellent choices for catching rats and other small pests. Their tenacity, intelligence, and energy equip them well for the task, providing a natural and humane solution to rodent problems. By integrating one of these breeds into your home, you not only gain a loyal companion but also an efficient vermin control partner, ensuring a pest-free environment.