What to Do If a Rat Bites a Dog?

Immediate Actions After a Rat Bite

Assessing the Situation

Examining the Wound

Inspect the bite site promptly. Remove any fur or debris that obscures the area. Use a bright light and magnifying glass if available. Note the size, shape, and depth of punctures; rat teeth often produce two parallel wounds a few millimeters apart.

Assess surrounding tissue for swelling, redness, or heat. Record any discharge, its color, and consistency. Check for bleeding; persistent oozing may indicate vascular damage. Feel for firmness or fluctuation, which can signal abscess formation.

Document findings. Write a concise description, including time of the incident, location on the body, and any observable changes since the bite. Photograph the wound from multiple angles for future reference and veterinary consultation.

Determine the need for professional care. Immediate veterinary evaluation is required if:

The wound is deeper than the thickness of the skin
Significant bleeding continues after applying pressure for three minutes
Swelling, pain, or heat spreads rapidly
Signs of infection appear within 24 hours
The dog shows systemic symptoms such as fever, lethargy, or vomiting

When a veterinarian is consulted, provide the documented observations and photographs to facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Identifying Potential Risks

A rat bite introduces several health hazards that can affect a dog’s recovery and overall wellbeing. Recognizing these hazards early enables prompt veterinary intervention and reduces the likelihood of severe complications.

Bacterial infection: Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus species commonly inhabit rat mouths. Bite wounds can become inflamed, produce pus, and spread to surrounding tissue.
Rabies exposure: Although rare in domestic rats, any wild rodent may carry the virus. Immediate assessment of the animal’s vaccination status and regional rabies prevalence is essential.
Leptospirosis: Rats serve as reservoirs for Leptospira bacteria. The pathogen can enter the bloodstream through the puncture site, potentially causing kidney or liver damage.
Tetanus: Clostridium tetani spores may be deposited in the wound, leading to muscle rigidity and respiratory compromise if untreated.
Wound dehiscence: The sharp, deep nature of a rat bite can damage fascia and muscle, increasing the risk of the incision opening after suturing.
Secondary trauma: Dogs may lick or chew the wound, introducing additional microbes and aggravating tissue damage.
Zoonotic risk: Infected dogs can transmit certain pathogens to humans, especially children and immunocompromised individuals.

Each risk demands specific diagnostic tests, such as culture and sensitivity, serology for rabies and leptospirosis, and tetanus antibody titers. Timely administration of antibiotics, antitoxins, or vaccines, combined with proper wound cleaning, mitigates the identified threats and supports a smoother recovery.

First Aid for Your Dog

Cleaning the Wound

When a rat has punctured a dog’s skin, immediate wound care reduces infection risk and supports healing.

Gather sterile saline, clean gauze, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution (chlorhexidine or povidine‑iodine), and a clean towel.

Put on gloves to protect both yourself and the animal.
Apply gentle pressure with a clean towel to stop any bleeding.
Rinse the wound thoroughly with sterile saline; flush from the center outward to remove debris.
Pat the area dry with sterile gauze; avoid rubbing, which can reopen tissue.
Apply a thin layer of antiseptic solution, ensuring coverage of the entire wound margin.
Cover with a non‑adhesive sterile dressing, securing it loosely to allow airflow.

Monitor the site twice daily for swelling, discharge, or foul odor. Replace the dressing each inspection, cleaning the wound again with saline before re‑applying antiseptic. If redness spreads, pus appears, or the dog shows signs of pain or fever, contact a veterinarian promptly.

Proper cleaning, consistent dressing changes, and vigilant observation are essential for preventing secondary infection after a rat bite.

Controlling Bleeding

When a dog is bitten by a rat, the first priority is to stop any bleeding that may result from the wound. Apply direct pressure with a clean gauze or cloth, maintaining firm, continuous pressure for several minutes until the flow diminishes. If blood soaks through, add another layer without removing the original dressing.

After initial pressure, elevate the affected limb above heart level to reduce blood flow to the site. Keep the dog calm and still; movement can increase bleeding.

Steps to control bleeding

Inspect the wound for depth and size; note any visible teeth marks or punctures.
Clean the area with sterile saline; avoid harsh antiseptics that may irritate tissue.
Pack the wound with sterile gauze, then apply a pressure bandage that is tight enough to sustain pressure but not so tight as to cut off circulation.
Re‑check the bandage every 5–10 minutes; tighten or re‑apply pressure if bleeding resumes.
If bleeding persists despite pressure, use a temporary tourniquet placed proximal to the wound, tightening only enough to halt flow, and seek veterinary care immediately.

Once bleeding is under control, monitor the dog for signs of shock—pale gums, rapid heartbeat, lethargy—and transport to a veterinarian for further assessment, wound cleaning, and tetanus prophylaxis. Prompt, decisive action reduces blood loss and improves the prognosis.

Veterinary Care and Follow-Up

Why Professional Help is Crucial

Risk of Infection

When a rodent bites a dog, the wound introduces microorganisms that can cause serious systemic illness. Primary bacterial agents include Streptobacillus moniliformis (rat‑bite fever), Leptospira spp., Pasteurella spp., and Staphylococcus spp. Viral threats comprise hantavirus and, in rare cases, rabies if the rodent is infected. Parasites such as Toxoplasma and Trichinella may also be transmitted through contaminated saliva. The risk of tetanus increases if the dog’s immunization schedule is outdated. Early infection signs often mimic mild inflammation but can progress to fever, lethargy, joint pain, or organ dysfunction within days.

Prompt veterinary intervention reduces morbidity. Recommended steps:

Flush the bite area with sterile saline and mild antiseptic solution.
Apply a clean bandage only if advised by a professional; avoid constrictive dressings.
Schedule an examination within 24 hours for wound assessment and culture sampling.
Initiate empiric antibiotic therapy targeting gram‑negative and anaerobic organisms (e.g., amoxicillin‑clavulanate) pending culture results.
Verify tetanus booster status; administer booster if more than five years have elapsed.
Discuss serologic testing for leptospirosis and rat‑bite fever; consider treatment even if results are pending.
Monitor for fever, swelling, or behavioral changes; report deterioration immediately.

Effective management hinges on rapid wound care, targeted antimicrobial treatment, and updated vaccinations to prevent the cascade of infections that can follow a rodent bite.

Rabies and Other Diseases

A rat bite can introduce serious pathogens into a dog’s bloodstream. The most critical concern is rabies, a fatal viral disease that requires immediate veterinary intervention. If the dog’s rabies vaccination is not current, the animal must be isolated, examined, and, if indicated, administered a rabies booster and immunoglobulin. Laboratory testing of the rat (if available) or observation of the animal for the typical 10‑day quarantine period helps determine exposure risk.

Other infections transmitted by rats include:

Leptospira spp. – bacterial disease causing kidney failure and jaundice; diagnosis by serology, treatment with doxycycline.
Streptobacillus moniliformis (rat‑bite fever) – fever, polyarthritis; confirmed by blood culture, treated with penicillin or doxycycline.
Hantavirus – rare in dogs, may cause hemorrhagic fever; diagnosis by PCR, supportive care only.
Salmonella spp. – gastrointestinal distress; identified by stool culture, managed with fluid therapy and, if severe, antibiotics.

When a rat bite occurs, follow these steps:

Restrain the dog safely; apply direct pressure to control bleeding.
Clean the wound with mild antiseptic solution and warm water.
Contact a veterinarian without delay; provide details of the incident and the rat’s condition.
Provide the vet with the dog’s vaccination record, especially rabies status.
If possible, capture the rat for identification and testing; otherwise, note its appearance and behavior.

After initial treatment, the veterinarian will advise a monitoring schedule. Observe the dog for fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal swelling at the bite site. Report any suspicious signs to the veterinary clinic promptly. Documentation of the incident should be submitted to local animal health authorities, as required by law in many jurisdictions.

Tetanus Concerns

A rat’s teeth can introduce Clostridium tetani spores into a dog’s wound. If the animal’s tetanus vaccination is outdated or unknown, the risk of developing tetanus rises sharply.

Immediate wound care reduces bacterial load. Flush the bite site with sterile saline, remove visible debris, and apply a mild antiseptic. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage tissue. After cleaning, cover the area with a sterile dressing to prevent environmental contamination.

Veterinary assessment should follow promptly. The veterinarian will:

Verify the dog’s vaccination record.
Evaluate wound depth and tissue viability.
Administer a tetanus toxoid booster if the last dose exceeds one year.
Consider a tetanus antitoxin injection for severe or deep puncture wounds.
Prescribe antibiotics targeting anaerobic bacteria, typically a combination of penicillin or a suitable alternative.

Monitor the dog for tetanus signs: facial muscle rigidity, difficulty swallowing, stiff gait, or spasms. Symptoms usually appear 3–21 days post‑exposure. Early detection and treatment improve prognosis.

If the dog shows any neurological signs, initiate emergency veterinary care. Supportive therapy may include muscle relaxants, intravenous fluids, and controlled ventilation in advanced cases.

What to Expect at the Vet

Wound Examination and Treatment

When a dog receives a bite from a rat, the first priority is a thorough visual and tactile inspection of the wound. Gently separate the fur around the bite site, look for puncture marks, lacerations, or torn tissue, and feel for swelling, heat, or fluid discharge. Note the size, depth, and number of entry points, as multiple small punctures may indicate a higher infection risk.

Clean the area immediately with a mild antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or diluted povidone‑iodine. Rinse with sterile saline to remove debris, then apply a thin layer of a broad‑spectrum topical antibiotic. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could irritate damaged tissue.

After initial care, follow these steps:

Contact a veterinarian without delay; rat bites can transmit bacteria (e.g., Streptobacillus moniliformis) and parasites.
Provide the veterinarian with details: bite location, time elapsed, and any observed symptoms (vomiting, fever, lethargy).
Allow the professional to assess the need for systemic antibiotics, pain relief, and tetanus prophylaxis.
If the dog’s vaccination status is unclear, discuss rabies risk and consider a booster shot as advised.
Keep the wound covered with a clean, non‑adhesive dressing; change it daily or when it becomes wet or soiled.
Monitor for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, pus, or a foul odor. Report any changes promptly.

Maintain a quiet environment for the dog, limit physical activity, and ensure adequate hydration and nutrition to support healing. Record the progression of the wound with photographs or notes for reference during follow‑up visits.

Vaccination and Medications

When a rat bite penetrates a dog’s skin, the first priority is to assess the need for immunization. Verify the dog’s current rabies vaccine record; if the series is incomplete or lapsed, administer a booster immediately and report the incident to local health authorities. A tetanus toxoid injection should be given if the dog has not received a tetanus vaccine within the past five years, because rodent bites can introduce Clostridium tetani spores.

After confirming vaccination status, initiate medication protocols. Commonly prescribed agents include:

Broad‑spectrum antibiotics such as amoxicillin‑clavulanate or doxycycline to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
Analgesics (e.g., carprofen or meloxicam) to control pain and reduce inflammation.
Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine) if signs of allergic reaction appear.

Wound care must accompany drug therapy. Flush the bite site with sterile saline, debride necrotic tissue, and apply a topical antiseptic. Cover the area with a non‑adhesive dressing and monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge. Schedule a follow‑up examination within 48 hours to reassess healing progress and adjust medication dosages if necessary.

If the dog exhibits fever, lethargy, or neurological signs, treat as an emergency. Initiate aggressive intravenous antibiotics, provide supportive fluid therapy, and transport the animal to a veterinary emergency facility without delay.

Follow-Up Appointments

When a dog suffers a rat bite, the veterinarian’s initial treatment is only the first step; scheduled follow‑up visits are essential for confirming recovery and preventing complications.

The first re‑examination should occur within 48–72 hours. The clinician will reassess the wound, verify that sutures (if placed) remain secure, and evaluate signs of infection such as swelling, discharge, or increased temperature. If the bite was deep, the veterinarian may collect a sample for bacterial culture to guide antibiotic adjustments.

A second appointment is typically scheduled 7–10 days after the incident. During this visit the practitioner checks for delayed infection, assesses granulation tissue, and determines whether sutures need removal. The veterinarian also reviews the dog’s vaccination status, ensuring tetanus prophylaxis is up to date if the local protocol recommends it.

A third follow‑up, often at 14–21 days, confirms complete wound closure and monitors for any lingering systemic effects, including fever or lethargy. The veterinarian may perform a brief physical exam and, if indicated, order blood work to rule out hematologic changes caused by bacterial toxins.

Key points for owners:

Record the date and time of each appointment.
Observe the bite site daily for redness, swelling, or discharge.
Report any changes in appetite, behavior, or temperature promptly.
Keep the dog’s vaccination record accessible for the veterinary team.

Adhering to this schedule maximizes the chance of full recovery and minimizes the risk of severe infection or other health issues.

Post-Vet Home Care

Monitoring for Complications

After a rat bite, close observation of the dog is essential to detect early signs of infection, toxin exposure, or wound deterioration. Owners should record any changes and report them promptly to a veterinarian.

Key indicators to watch for include:

Redness extending beyond the bite margin
Swelling, heat, or discharge from the wound
Fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite
Limping, difficulty moving the affected limb
Vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained neurological signs such as tremors or disorientation

Observation should continue for at least 72 hours, with checks every 4–6 hours during the first day and at least twice daily thereafter. If any listed signs appear, immediate veterinary evaluation is required.

Veterinarians may recommend:

Re‑examination of the wound to assess bacterial colonization.
Laboratory testing for rat‑borne pathogens (e.g., Leptospira, Hantavirus) if systemic signs develop.
Adjustment of antimicrobial therapy based on culture results.
Administration of tetanus prophylaxis when indicated.

Documentation of temperature, wound measurements, and behavior helps guide treatment decisions and ensures timely intervention if complications arise. Continuous monitoring, combined with professional assessment, reduces the risk of severe outcomes after a rat bite incident.

Administering Medications

After a rat bite, the first priority is wound sanitation. Flush the area with sterile saline or a mild antiseptic solution, then apply a clean dressing. Prompt cleaning reduces bacterial load and prepares the site for medication absorption.

Antibiotic therapy is essential to prevent infection from rat‑borne pathogens such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Leptospira. Common choices include amoxicillin‑clavulanate (10 mg/kg, PO, every 12 hours) or doxycycline (5 mg/kg, PO, every 12 hours) for a minimum of 7 days. Adjust the regimen based on culture results or veterinarian guidance.

Tetanus and rabies prophylaxis must be evaluated. If the dog’s tetanus series is incomplete, administer a tetanus toxoid booster (0.5 mL IM). Rabies exposure requires immediate consultation with a veterinary professional; post‑exposure vaccination may be indicated, typically a single dose of inactivated rabies vaccine given subcutaneously, followed by a booster after 14 days.

Pain and inflammation control improve comfort and aid healing. Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (e.g., carprofen 2 mg/kg, PO, every 12 hours) or opioids (e.g., buprenorphine 0.01 mg/kg, PO, every 8–12 hours) should be prescribed according to the dog’s weight and health status.

Continuous observation is necessary. Monitor the bite site for swelling, discharge, or increased pain, and record temperature and appetite. Schedule a follow‑up examination within 48 hours to reassess wound progress and adjust medication dosages if required.

Preventing Re-Injury

After a canine receives a bite from a rodent, immediate attention must focus on avoiding subsequent harm. The wound’s condition, the animal’s behavior, and the environment all influence the risk of re‑injury.

Keep the dog confined to a clean, quiet area until the bite site shows signs of healing; limit movement that could strain the tissue.
Apply a veterinarian‑approved antiseptic dressing and change it according to the professional’s schedule; improper dressings can attract infection and cause the dog to scratch or lick the area.
Administer prescribed antibiotics and pain relief exactly as directed; missed doses reduce therapeutic effectiveness and may prompt the animal to seek relief through self‑trauma.
Monitor the bite for swelling, discharge, or increased temperature; early detection of complications prevents escalation that could force the dog to alter its posture or activity in harmful ways.
Restrict interactions with other animals and rodents; exposure to aggressive or stressed rodents raises the likelihood of another bite.
Ensure the dog’s vaccination status, especially rabies and tetanus, is up‑to‑date; outdated immunity can lead to severe systemic reactions that impair healing and provoke defensive behavior.
Provide a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins to support tissue regeneration; nutritional deficiencies weaken skin integrity and increase susceptibility to tearing.
Train the dog to avoid chewing or biting at the wound site; use an Elizabethan collar or soft recovery suit if necessary to prevent self‑inflicted damage.

Consistent adherence to these measures minimizes the chance of the original injury worsening or recurring, promoting a swift and uncomplicated recovery.

Understanding Rat Bites and Prevention

Dangers Associated with Rat Bites

Bacterial Infections

A rat bite can introduce bacteria that threaten a dog’s health. Common pathogens include Streptobacillus moniliformis (rat‑bite fever), Leptospira spp., Salmonella, and Clostridium species. These organisms may cause fever, septicemia, gastrointestinal distress, or localized wound infection.

Prompt veterinary assessment is essential. A professional will clean the wound, prescribe appropriate antibiotics, and evaluate the need for tetanus prophylaxis. Early intervention reduces the risk of systemic spread and organ damage.

Key actions for owners:

Wash the wound with mild antiseptic solution immediately after the incident.
Apply a sterile dressing to control bleeding and prevent environmental contamination.
Contact a veterinarian within a few hours; provide details about the bite, the rat’s environment, and any observed symptoms.
Follow the prescribed medication schedule precisely; complete the full antibiotic course even if the dog appears improved.
Monitor the dog for signs of fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or swelling around the bite site; report changes to the veterinarian without delay.

Vaccination status should be verified, especially for rabies and canine distemper, as co‑infections can complicate treatment. Regular health checks after exposure help detect delayed bacterial effects and ensure full recovery.

Parasites

A rat bite introduces a range of parasites that can compromise a dog’s health. Common rodent‑borne parasites include tapeworms (e.g., Hymenolepis spp.), nematodes (Trichinella), and protozoa such as Toxoplasma gondii. Fleas and mites carried on the rat’s fur may also transfer to the dog during the encounter.

Immediate actions

Clean the wound with mild antiseptic solution.
Apply a sterile dressing to limit bacterial entry.
Contact a veterinarian within 24 hours for assessment.

Diagnostic considerations

Stool analysis to detect tapeworm eggs or nematode larvae.
Blood tests for serologic evidence of Toxoplasma or Trichinella infection.
Imaging (ultrasound or radiography) if systemic signs suggest organ involvement.

Therapeutic protocol

Broad‑spectrum anthelmintic (e.g., praziquantel) for tapeworms.
Specific anti‑protozoal medication (e.g., clindamycin) if Toxoplasma is confirmed.
Antiparasitic ear and skin treatments for ectoparasites transferred from the rat.

Preventive measures

Keep dogs away from rodent habitats and active infestations.
Maintain regular deworming schedule according to veterinary guidelines.
Implement rodent control programs to reduce exposure risk.

Prompt veterinary intervention, combined with targeted antiparasitic therapy, minimizes the chance of chronic infection and supports rapid recovery after a rat bite.

Rodent-Borne Diseases

Rodent‑borne pathogens pose a serious risk to dogs that have been bitten by a rat. The bite introduces bacteria, viruses, and parasites that the animal may not have encountered previously, and rapid identification of the threat is essential for effective treatment.

Common agents transmitted through rat bites include:

Leptospira interrogans – spirochete causing leptospirosis, characterized by fever, jaundice, and renal dysfunction.
Spirillum minus and Streptobacillus moniliformis – bacteria responsible for rat‑bite fever, producing fever, joint pain, and skin lesions.
Hantavirus – rare in canines but capable of causing hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome.
Salmonella spp. – leading to gastrointestinal upset, fever, and septicemia.
Yersinia pestis – the plague bacterium; transmission through a bite is uncommon but possible, resulting in severe fever and lymph node swelling.

Clinical signs to monitor after an incident:

Local swelling, redness, or pus at the wound site.
Elevated temperature, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
Coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urination.
Joint stiffness or limping, especially with rat‑bite fever.

Immediate steps:

Clean the wound with sterile saline solution; apply gentle pressure to control bleeding.
Contact a veterinarian without delay; describe the incident and any observed symptoms.
Expect diagnostic tests such as blood work, culture, or PCR to identify specific pathogens.
Initiate broad‑spectrum antibiotics as prescribed; consider doxycycline for leptospirosis and rat‑bite fever.
Discuss tetanus prophylaxis and update rabies vaccination if the dog’s status is uncertain.
Monitor the animal closely for systemic signs; report any deterioration to the veterinarian promptly.

Preventive actions reduce exposure risk:

Eliminate rodent habitats around the home by sealing entry points and removing food sources.
Store pet food in airtight containers; avoid leaving scraps outdoors.
Conduct regular pest‑control inspections and treat infestations promptly.
Keep dogs on a leash or within a fenced area to limit contact with wildlife.

Understanding the spectrum of rodent‑borne diseases and acting swiftly after a rat bite safeguards canine health and minimizes the chance of severe complications.

Preventing Future Bites

Rodent Control in Your Home and Yard

Rodent control is essential to prevent incidents where a rat may injure a dog. Effective measures begin inside the house. Seal all entry points, including gaps around pipes, vents, and doors, with steel wool or metal mesh. Store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up crumbs or spills. Dispose of garbage in sealed bins and remove pet food after meals. Regularly inspect attics, basements, and crawl spaces for signs of activity, such as droppings or gnaw marks, and set traps or bait stations according to local regulations.

In the yard, eliminate habitats that attract rodents. Keep grass trimmed and remove dense vegetation near the foundation. Store firewood off the ground and away from the house. Install a perimeter fence that extends underground to deter burrowing. Use motion‑activated lights or ultrasonic devices to discourage nocturnal activity. Place snap traps or live‑catch traps in strategic locations, checking them daily and disposing of captures safely.

Maintain a clean environment for pets. Supervise dogs during outdoor play, especially in areas where rodent activity is known. Provide secure, elevated feeding stations to keep food out of reach of pests. If a rat bite occurs, seek veterinary care immediately, then review the rodent‑control program to address any gaps that allowed the encounter. Continuous vigilance and prompt remediation reduce the risk of future attacks.

Supervising Your Dog Outdoors

Supervision reduces the chance that a dog will encounter rodents and suffer a bite. Continuous visual contact, a secure leash, and a fenced area create a controlled environment where the animal cannot chase or investigate small mammals.

Keep the dog on a short leash during walks in parks or fields where rats are active.
Inspect the yard for burrows, gnawed vegetation, and food sources that attract rodents; eliminate them promptly.
Use a sturdy, chew‑resistant fence that extends underground to prevent burrowing.
Schedule walks during daylight hours when rat activity is lower.
Carry a handheld flashlight on early‑morning or evening outings to spot rodents before the dog does.

If a bite occurs, remove the dog from the area, apply a clean cloth to the wound, and seek veterinary care without delay. Prompt medical evaluation prevents infection and addresses potential rabies exposure. Continuous supervision remains the most effective preventive measure.

Training and Behavior Modification

When a dog is bitten by a rat, prompt veterinary assessment and wound treatment are mandatory. After the medical emergency is addressed, focus shifts to preventing recurrence through targeted training and behavior modification.

Implement controlled exposure to small rodents in a safe environment. Begin with a leash‑on walk where the dog observes a caged rat from a distance, rewarding calm behavior with high‑value treats. Gradually reduce the distance over multiple sessions, maintaining a steady reward schedule. This systematic desensitization teaches the dog that the presence of a rodent does not trigger a chase response.

Reinforce reliable recall commands. Practice “come” and “leave it” in distraction‑free settings, then introduce mild distractions such as moving objects or sounds. Increase difficulty by adding a simulated rodent movement, ensuring the dog returns promptly for a reward. Consistent success builds an automatic disengagement from potential prey.

Secure the environment to limit unsupervised access to areas where rodents may hide. Seal gaps in fences, store food in sealed containers, and eliminate clutter that provides shelter for vermin. A tidy, rodent‑free space reduces the likelihood that the dog encounters a rat without supervision.

Adopt a structured exercise routine that satisfies the dog’s predatory drive through appropriate outlets. Daily fetch, tug‑of‑war, or scent‑work sessions exhaust excess energy, decreasing impulsive chase behavior. Pair each session with a brief “focus” drill, during which the dog maintains eye contact for a set duration before receiving a treat.

Monitor progress with a simple log: record date, setting, distance to rodent, dog’s response, and reward given. Review the log weekly to identify patterns, adjust training intensity, and confirm that the dog consistently chooses disengagement over pursuit.