Ratter (dog)

A typical ratter is small to medium-sized and has a short and smooth coat, however a wide range of dog breeds and landraces may be used.

[2][1][3] The use of ratting dogs is widely considered to be the most environmentally friendly, humane and efficient methods of exterminating rodents.

As the population in London grew, overcrowding and inadequate waste management systems caused the hygiene levels to fall and the use of rat-catchers and their ratting dogs rose in popularity.

The group was named by founding member Richard Reynolds after Ryders Alley in Manhattan, which was once rat infested, and the trencher-fed pack assembled to hunt.

Earthdog trials involve man-made tunnels that the dogs must navigate, while scenting a rat, "the quarry".

Depending on the sanctioning organization, "working" means barking, scratching, staring, pawing, digging; any active behavior.

Tame rats are placed in a hard tube to prevent injury and hidden in hay bales while the dogs find them.