Dogs can help keep rats away, but they are not a guaranteed or complete solution to a rat problem. Most rats try to avoid any perceived threat, and the presence, scent, or sound of a dog may make your property less attractive to them. However, dogs alone usually cannot eliminate an existing infestation or prevent very determined rats from coming onto your property.

Why Rats Avoid Dogs

Rats are cautious animals that prefer to stay away from predators and strong, unfamiliar smells. A dog's scent, barking, and movement can signal danger. Rats may avoid areas where a dog is active — especially near garages, sheds, and gardens.

How Dogs Impact Rat Activity

• Scent: The smell of a dog's urine, fur, and body can linger and signal danger to rats
• Noise: Barking and movement can scare away skittish individuals
• Chasing/Hunting: Some breeds actively chase and catch rats — but many pet dogs lack this instinct
• Territory Marking: Dog urine marking can make an area feel less safe to rats

Best Breeds for Rat Deterrence

Rat terriers, Jack Russell terriers, Yorkshire terriers, Cairn terriers, and Airedale terriers were historically bred specifically for rodent hunting and are the most effective domestic breeds for active deterrence. Most other breeds provide scent deterrence only.

New Hampshire Properties: Where Dogs Help Most

In New Hampshire, dogs can be particularly useful on rural properties with barns, outbuildings, or woodpiles — areas where rats establish outdoor colonies before moving indoors. A dog patrolling a barn perimeter can significantly reduce rat establishment in those structures.

Limitations of Relying on Dogs

• Some determined rats — especially when food is abundant — will overcome their fear
• Dogs only protect areas where they spend time; rats easily enter attics, wall voids, or spaces dogs can't access
• Most domestic dogs are not trained to hunt rats effectively

Health Warning

If your dog has caught or been in contact with a rat, consult your vet. Rats in NH can carry leptospirosis, which is transmissible to dogs through contact with infected urine or tissue. Ensure your dog is current on leptospirosis vaccination.

Dogs as Part of a Broader Plan

Use a dog's presence to discourage rats, but combine it with sealing entry points, removing food sources, keeping the yard tidy, and professional pest control if an infestation is already established. Call Anchor Pest Services at (603) 785-0118 for a full assessment.