Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz
Description
The Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz is a compact terrier breed originally bred in southern Spain for rat hunting in wine cellars. This dog stands out with its short, smooth white coat accented by striking black and tan "panda" facial markings. Weighing between 16 and 18 pounds, it combines agility with a sturdy build, perfect for quick, precise movements during hunts. Known for its lively and fearless temperament, this breed thrives on interaction and mental challenges. It’s alert and vocal, often barking to signal activity or potential intruders. Their social nature makes them excellent companions, but they need a secure environment due to their strong prey drive and tendency to chase small animals.
Grooming
The Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz sports a short, smooth coat that requires minimal upkeep but benefits from weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush to remove loose hairs and maintain shine. Bathing should be done every 4 to 8 weeks to keep the white coat clean without stripping natural oils. Nail trimming every 2 to 4 weeks helps prevent discomfort, while monthly ear checks reduce the risk of infections. - Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush - Bathe every 4–8 weeks, avoid over-bathing - Trim nails every 2–4 weeks - Clean ears monthly - Check for tear stains on white fur Pro tip: Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the face and around eyes to prevent staining on the white coat. This breed’s short coat doesn’t shed heavily, but regular grooming keeps it looking crisp and healthy.
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
This breed needs about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to match its active and alert nature. Morning walks can focus on brisk exercise to expend energy, while evening strolls offer mental stimulation through varied routes or scent work. Consistency in schedule helps manage their vocal tendencies and keeps them balanced. Example routine: - Morning: 40-minute brisk walk with some off-leash scent exploration - Evening: 30-minute leash walk with obedience practice Short walks won’t satisfy their drive. They need purposeful movement.
Boarding
When boarding a Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz, provide a crate sized between 30 and 36 inches to accommodate their compact frame comfortably. This breed enjoys active play sessions, so staff should schedule two energetic play blocks daily combined with scent or brain games to engage their hunting instincts and intelligence. Avoid small-animal toys, as their prey drive can trigger chasing behaviors. Secure fencing is essential to prevent escapes during outdoor time. Staff should monitor barking levels and provide calming breaks, as this breed can be vocal when stressed or bored. Enrichment that taps into their natural terrier traits helps reduce anxiety and keeps them content while away from home.