Today we want to tell you about an ARISTODOG breed you may not know. These are the Valencian Ratter dogs (“gos rater” in Valencian), a breed originating in the Valencian Community that was historically used to guard and drive away small rodents (or not-so-small ones) that lurked in granaries, stables, farmhouses, country homes, warehouses, and other places belonging to farmers and country folk.
However, over the years, the Valencian Ratter has managed to win its owners’ hearts and make a place for itself in their homes. As a result, today it is already another member of many families, especially those in the Valencian Community.
Image: Sociedad Canina Costa del Sol
The breed has already been recognized by the Royal Spanish Canine Society (RSCE) within Group 3, that of Terriers. However, it has not yet been recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Time will tell!
What are Valencian Ratter dogs like?
Males measure between 30 and 40 centimeters. Females measure between 29 and 38. In both cases, their weight ranges from 4 to 8 kilograms. Due to their small size, Valencian Ratter dogs are agile, fast, and strong. They are generally quite athletic, so they are excellent jumpers and do well in canine activities such as agility trials and exhibitions, as well as running with their humans, etc.
Their coat varies, although generally the hair is fine and short (no more than 2 centimeters long). Spotted coats are more common than solid ones. In fact, the most abundant is the tricolor coat (black and tan with white markings), followed by black and tan.
Their intelligent, knowing, adventure-hungry gaze stands out, with medium-sized brown eyes set in an elongated head and ears that are always erect and triangular.
Image: Sociedad Canina Costa del Sol
How do Valencian Ratter dogs behave?
One of the most distinctive and special traits of Valencian Ratter dogs is that they are devoted and loyal to their ARISTOPARENTS. Their ever-alert nature, willingness to help, tenacity, and courage make this dog an ideal life companion, one you could never be bored with. This stems from their need, as a breed, to be useful to their owners. They are also sweet and affectionate with family members.
However, it is important to bear in mind that, because of their role as watchdogs, they tend to be wary of strangers. They are also wary of any kind of change. In fact, they get excited when they have the opportunity to alert their owners to the presence of strangers or unusual events. As a result, they never miss an opportunity to bark when they believe the situation warrants it. And not content with that, they have developed different types of barks, which undoubtedly help their owners know whether everything is in order… or not.
How should you care for Valencian Ratter dogs?
Caring for a Valencian Ratter is easy, because these dogs have been toughened by the passing years and are accustomed to country life. However, precisely for that reason, it is recommended to get a Valencian Ratter only if you can provide quality time and keep the dog in a place where it can explore, investigate, and feel fulfilled while carrying out its traditional role: guarding.
We hope you enjoyed learning about these funny, entertaining, and clever ARISTODOGS. If you would like to learn about other breeds originating in our country, we invite you to keep reading here: dogs made in Spain.