AvidPets.com
|
|
Trick Training
Rats are known to be one of the most intelligent little
creatures we know, often credited with dog-like intelligence. Some
rat clubs are already including agility competitions into their
shows.
|
 |
Rats playing basketball! |
Ratty Tricks of the Trade
Have you ever considered teaching your pet rat tricks? Well this
page is for you! It's here to inspire ideas, and help you discover
what a wonderful pet rats actually make.
Is it hard to teach a rat tricks? No way! In fact, the only
"equipment" you really need is a treat such as peanut butter or
fruit loops, a little patience, and of course your rat.
I like to use a clicker when training, and you might like to include
that in your list of things to find. They cost about $1.50 each if
you buy them online (here). Or you can find them at your local
PetSmart.
Clickers also make excellent positive reinforcement for the correct
behavior response. They really are a good investment.
Now on to the tricks!
Simple Tricks
"Kiss"
This is such an easy trick, your rat has probably already taught
this one to itself. If your rat is shy however, you can put a little
drop of peanut butter on your cheek or hand to encourage your rat to
lick. As soon as he licks, say "Kiss" then click the clicker. That's
all! Soon he'll give you a kiss whenever you offer your hand or say
the word "Kiss."
"Beg"
Remember how hard it was to teach your dog to sit up on his hind
legs? Well rats are MUCH easier. In fact, this is another "trick"
that rats do all by themselves. Simply dab a drop of peanut butter
on your finger, then hold it over the rat's head. Ta-da! The rat
stands up on it's hind legs to get the treat. Immediately say "beg"
then reward the rat with a click from the clicker and the drop of
peanut butter.
"Over"
This is a trick you'll definately want to teach if you ever plan to
do rat agility. To teach this one, place your rat on one side of the
fence or object, say "over" then guide him over the obstacle with a
treat. When he reaches the other side, click, then give him his
treat.
"Lion Tamer"
This one is a lot of fun, and is a cute act for displays. Simply
place a treat in your mouth, and allow the rat to take it out. Soon
he'll be prying your mouth open with his little paws to peek inside.
"Shoulder Surf"
Some rats will automatically climb up on your shoulder to ride along
from room to room, but others need a little encouragement. The best
method for training a shoulder surfer is to place him on your
shoulder and give him treats while he's there. Let him get used to
sitting calmly on your shoulder before you start moving around
though, or he might get nervous.
Watch your rats behavior, and you'll get ideas for more simple
tricks that your rat already knows, but just needs you to encourage.
Advanced Tricks
"Hold"
Choose something small and lightweight, but not something so small
that your rat might accidently swallow it. A small ring works well,
or a little rubber ball. Hold ring in front of the rat, and
encourage him to mouth it. Once he accepts it in his mouth,
immediately click and give him a treat. It will take some patience
before the rat will immediately take the object, but you'll be
rewarded in the end.
"Come"
The trick here is to get the rat to come to it's name or the command
"come". Again, your best tool is a yummy treat. Place your rat down
on a table or chair, then call the rats name and give him a tiny
drop of peanut butter. Repeat from gradually further distances until
he comes across the table to get his treat.
|
|
|
Advice for all pet
lovers! |
|
