The origin of the Ratonero breed and its purpose, exterior standard, character, health, care and nutrition. Price when purchasing an Andalusian tavern rat catcher. Ratonero is a cheerful, agile terrier dog with smart eyes and a taut, slender figure. A great friend and a wonderful hunter. Perhaps, to someone it will seem not the most remarkable in its exterior, it is too close in appearance to the modern Jack Russell Terrier and Toy Fox Terrier. But, despite the external similarity with these breeds (and it could not be otherwise, because they are all distant relatives), the ratonero is an absolutely unique dog, absolutely outstanding in its talents, having its own long history and clear nationality.
The origin story of the Andalusian ratonero
The Andalusian ratonero, or as it is also called, the Andalusian tavern rat catcher (Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz), is an old breed of rat catchers and hunting dogs in Spain. The very name of the breed clearly indicates that this nimble dog-terrier originates from the south of the Iberian (Iberian) Peninsula, from the southernmost tip of continental Spain - from Andalusia.
However, meticulous modern researchers of the breed managed to further clarify the geographical origin of this amazing dog. They found out that the ratonero dogs first appeared in the southernmost province of Spanish Andalusia - in Cadiz. This area is notable for the fact that it is simultaneously washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. Such a strategically important geographical position of the province of Cadiz largely explains the origin of the ratonero, which in the old days was often called not only a "tavern rat-catcher", but also a "deck dog". Well, what kind of "deck dog" can be on land?
Nowadays, there are two main versions of the origin of the sympathetic "Andalusians". According to one of them, it is believed that this dog comes from the smooth-haired fox terriers of the Old English type, brought by sea to Cadiz at the end of the 17th century by English wine merchants who bought the famous Andalusian wines. The trade in sweet sherries, tender nutmegs, spicy manzanilla or fragrant olorosos from Andalusia brought great profits and was so successful that English merchants massively built wine warehouses and cellars in all the port cities of the province of Cadiz. And it was to protect their wine stocks from rats and mice raids that the first English rat-catcher terriers were brought in by wine merchants. Later arriving fox terriers were crossed with a local dog breed (presumably with the native Andalusian raterillo - Raterillo Andaluz). From this "folk selection" and took a start, in their specific development, the Spanish dogs, which received the modern breed name - Andalusian Ratonero (Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz).
According to another version, the Old English Fox Terriers were introduced to the territory of Cadiz in the 18th century and were specially crossed with local dogs by the Spanish winemakers themselves, who were trying to protect their vineyards and wine cellars from the encroachments of rodents. Also, researchers assume that later (already at the beginning of the 20th century), the blood of miniature toy terriers was additionally poured into the breed of rat-catcher dogs, which made it possible to achieve a certain uniqueness and recognizability of the external appearance of the animal.
Although the "folk selection" of those years always put the working qualities of the dog in the foreground, in this case it definitely worked specifically on the specific color of the animals. The obligatory white color of the main color of the ratonero dog was not chosen by chance - thus, the rat exterminator was clearly visible in the dark, and the owner armed with a shotgun, protecting his cellars, could easily distinguish his dog from the "gray rogues" spoiling the barrels.
Ratonero dogs were actively used to exterminate rodents in inns, taverns and hotels, stables and sheds, as well as in port warehouses and on ships. This is the origin of several derivative names of the animal that exist in the everyday life of the Spaniards - "deck dog", "tavern rat exterminator", "tavern rat catcher" and others.
Despite the fact that uncontrolled selection lasted for many decades, and the Ratonero Terrier itself acquired its recognizable appearance at the beginning of the 20th century, the recognition of the breed even at the national Spanish level happened rather late. The first national club of fans of the Andalusian ratonero (le club Nacional del Perro Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz) was created only in 1994. And the introduction of the Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz breed into the Pedigree Book of the Spanish Kennel Club took place even later - on September 21, 2000.
At the international level, the pesratonero, despite the long history of its existence and undoubted services to the person, has not yet received official recognition by the FCI. Nevertheless, this dog in Spain and the countries closest to it has long been a universal favorite and active helper of man, which means that the world recognition of these cute and fearless doggies is not far off.
Purpose and use of ratonero
The main purpose of the Ratonero Terrier on the territory of wineries in Spain has not changed. He is still the main exterminator of rats, mice and moles in the vineyards and the best defender of wine cellars and cellars from rodents. True, already at the beginning of the 20th century, the ratonero dogs were already actively used by local hunters as hunting terriers of the burrowing type when hunting a fox or badger.
These days, the hunting talents of the Pied Piper Terrier are sometimes used as well. Moreover, he is able to hunt not only individually, but also as part of a group of dogs. And not only the fox, but also the hare and the rabbit. But the main modern purpose of the ratonero has now changed significantly. Dogs have found their use in sports, namely, as very athletic dogs, participating in agility and flyball competitions. They are also good as active pets and companion dogs. In Spain, they are also full-fledged show dogs, including in championships that test the working qualities of dogs.
External standard of the Andalusian ratonero
The Andalusian tavern rat-catcher is a well-muscled, agile and agile dog, a fine terrier type. The Andalusian ratonero breed is still not officially recognized by the Federation of Cynological International (FCI). Therefore, below is a description of the animal's exterior in accordance with the standard of the National Dog Club Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz (Spain).
The size of the animal is small, but fully justified by its main purpose - the extermination of rodents. The maximum height at the withers in an adult dog is up to 43 centimeters (40 centimeters is considered ideal), in a female the growth is smaller - up to 41 centimeters (38 centimeters is considered ideal). The body weight of the dog is in the range of 8-10 kg.
- Head proportional to the body, well balanced, triangular-conical, with a slightly flat skull. The forehead is quite wide. The stop (transition from the forehead to the muzzle) is slightly pronounced, soft. The muzzle is elongated, tapering towards the bow. The bridge of the nose is straight, not too wide (proportional). The nose is pronounced, but not large, black. The jaws are powerful, with a strong grip. The dental formula is complete - 42 teeth. The teeth are white, not too large, but with distinct canines. The bite is dense, scissor-like.
- Eyes small in size, almond-shaped or oval, somewhat convex, with an oblique set. The eye color is dark (brown or dark truffle). The darker the eye color, the higher the score. Eyes with intelligent and attentive gaze.
- Ears Set rather high, triangular in shape, medium in size, broken in the middle (just above the level of the crown of the head) and supported by cartilage, directed forward.
- Neck the ratonero is very strong and muscular, blending smoothly into the body, rather long, without dewlap. The scruff is indistinct.
- Torso elongated, but not too elongated, strong, not inclined to be overweight. The chest is very well developed, wide and deep. The back is strong, flat, not wide, its line is straight (can be raised to the croup). The croup is very strong, muscular, short and slightly sloping.
- Tail set on high, perpendicular to the rump, of medium thickness, whip-like. As a rule, it is docked (1/4 of the length remains).
- Limbs straight, very muscular. Strong bones. Dewclaws on the hind legs are removed. Paws are oval, "in a lump". Claws are black.
- Wool Andalusian rat-catcher is uniform, short, dense, of the same length and density throughout the body of the animal.
- Color. The main color is pure white. Almost the entire body of the animal has a white tone or a predominantly white color (up to the neck area). The main spots are located on the head of the dog - various combinations of black spots with reddish-red tan are possible. There should be reddish-brown spots above the eyes. Head color, most often tricolor, which makes the dog look like a smooth-haired Fox Terrier or Jack Russell Terrier. The presence of black spots in the croup is allowed.
Andalusian rat catcher personality
The Andalusian Pied Piper is a very agile, nimble and energetic dog with a well-balanced and human-friendly behavior. And although the ratonero is quite manageable and quite disciplined, his restlessness and restlessness can be a burden for the elderly or not too energetic people. But the breed is perfect for athletes, hunters and people who love a dynamic life, travel and nature.
Ratonero is a dog that is in constant motion, always looking for something and sniffing out. The dog is very strong (for its size), jumpy, hardy, unassuming to care for, has a great scent and can be an excellent hunter. He is fearless and courageous, although not aggressive. But when hunting a badger or a fox, he behaves very bravely and tenaciously, not allowing the animal to escape from the hunter. He, like all terriers, never gives in to an opponent who exceeds him in size and is able to stand up for himself.
The dog is an excellent rat-catcher and a fighter of a wide variety of rodents. That is why ratonero is completely incompatible with pets such as hamsters and guinea pigs, mice and chinchillas. The instinct of a curious and quick-witted dog is able to take its toll, with sad consequences for these funny rodents. With other canines living in the house, the terrier quickly finds contact and general activities, but for some reason he does not like cats (probably, some old scores of his own, originating in the wine cellars of Andalusia, are involved here).
Ratonero is an exceptionally intelligent animal, able to quickly understand what a person wants to achieve from him. Having learned something, he gladly pleases the owner with intelligent execution of commands and a variety of tricks. Yes, and the character of the "Andalusian" is rather mild, unlike the harmful and stubborn jagdterriers.
Pied rat-catchers bark extremely rarely, and exclusively on business, without causing any problems in this sense to others. They get along well with children and are able to actively participate in all their games, absolutely not conflicting and not showing aggression (which is sometimes characteristic of playful terriers).
"Andalusian" is a wonderful active and energetic dog, with a benevolent and cheerful character, loyal and devoted to its owners, well socially adapted to other animals, capable of being a reliable assistant in the hunt and a quick-footed agile sportsman in competitions. And also - it is a wonderful, reliable friend and companion, capable, if necessary, to stand up for itself and for its beloved master.
Andalusian ratonero health
The Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz breed is known among veterinarians as a species that is less susceptible to health problems. These dogs, as a rule, are always cheerful, active, have good health and strong immunity to infectious diseases.
However, the fact that the breed is still artificially bred also suggests that there are some health problems inherited from the ancestors. These include susceptibility to epilepsy, hypothyroidism (thyroid disease), the development of glaucoma and some difficulties during childbirth in pregnant bitches (which is why veterinarians often have to do a caesarean section).
Also, Andalusian puppies often have congenital heart defects and dysplasia of the knee and elbow joints.
Older dogs have an increased predisposition to tartar formation (with subsequent dental nuances). There may also be problems with the retina, myopia and cataracts.
The life expectancy of a tavern rat catcher (with careful and proper care) can reach 15 years, and sometimes even more.
Andalusian Terrier Care Tips
Ratonero terriers in Spain have always been considered the most common working dogs, and therefore do not require any particularly sophisticated care. In leaving, the Andalusian is rather unpretentious. Rather coarse short hair of a dog, even with an apartment, does not require combing more often than once or twice a week. Well, if the dog lives on the street, then even that less often.
It is necessary to bathe a terrier only if it is severely polluted, which does not happen so often in ordinary (not hunting) life. Although ratonero treats bathing without much pleasure, it endures and is not capricious.
Occasionally it is necessary to brush the teeth of a terrier (a dog's predisposition to the formation of tartar increases with age). It is advisable to do this once every two to three weeks using a special dog toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. Also, for prevention, you can give special cleansing "bones" made from tendons and gelatin.
Particular attention to the maintenance of the Andalusian tavern rat catcher requires the diet and walking of this energetic pet. Full-fledged walks should not only allow your pet to actively move, play and run freely, but also give him the opportunity to communicate with other dogs and people. The diet is selected well balanced in composition, saturation with essential minerals and vitamins. And also the pet's menu should be high-calorie enough to maximally compensate for the energy costs of an active terrier who returned from a walk and looking at you with the eyes of not a cute dog, but a hungry Andalusian wolf.
Price when buying Andalusian Ratonero puppy
On the territory of the CIS countries, the Andalusian rat catcher is practically not found. There are also no kennels for these terriers in Russia yet. Therefore, if you really want to get yourself such a cute dog, it is better not to be lazy and visit his homeland - Spanish Andalusia. There you will really be able to find what you want. Moreover, pedigree ratonero puppies are not expensive there, and Andalusian sherry is almost the best in the world.
The cost of a purebred medium-level puppy is at the level of 150-200 euros. And if you take a dog, as they say, just "for the soul", then it is quite possible to bargain for 70-80 euros. Well, show-class puppies are, of course, much more expensive in Spain.
What the Andalusian ratonero looks like, see below:
