Overview
The Ratonero Valenciano, or Gos Rater Valencià, is a small Spanish terrier-type dog from the Valencia region. It has long been used to catch rats and other rodents around farms and homes, and also to hunt rabbits.
The breed was recognised by the Spanish kennel club in 2004 and received provisional FCI acceptance in 2022. It is still uncommon and is regarded as vulnerable in Spain.
History
The breed is thought to have existed in Valencia since the sixteenth century, kept to control rats and rodents. Some say British Fox Terriers influenced local dogs, while others think similar work simply produced a similar type.
The Real Sociedad Canina de España recognised it in 2004, placing it in FCI Group 3, terriers. By the end of 2010 some 523 dogs were registered, and a Ratonero Valenciano won the Spanish national show in 2011.
Appearance
A small, lean, agile dog of about 29 to 40 cm at the withers and 4 to 8 kg, with the ideal height around 33 to 36 cm. The coat is very short, no longer than 2 cm.
Most are tricolour with white predominating; black and tan, brown and white, and brown and tan also occur. The breed is traditionally tailless or docked short.
Temperament
Alert, quick and busy, as a ratter should be. It is lively with its family and keen to follow movement and scents.
Like most terriers it may chase small animals, so it needs careful introductions to other pets.
Care and exercise
A small working terrier that needs daily walks and play, plus things to sniff and chase. The short coat needs only occasional brushing.
A secure fence helps, as it will follow a scent or a running animal. Training should be consistent and fun.
