Caring for Your Ratonero Valenciano: Key Health Concerns and Solutions

Dani Graymore
by Dani Graymore. Reviewed by Fitpetgo
Updated: Sep 15, 2024
Ratonero Valenciano

Introduction

The Ratonero Valenciano is a rare and ancient dog breed originating from Valencia, Spain. One of the many Perro de Presa Canario, also known as the Valet's Bull, the Ratonero Valenciano or simply the Rat Terrier was used for hunting small game, particularly rodents. Their strong instinct to capture and hunt makes them perfect for controlling large rodent infestations on farms.

Brief History

In the 1940s and 1950s, the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture took interest in developing this breed further. They interbred the Perro de Presa Canario with other breeds like the Terrier to increase its size range. Their intention was to create a farm dog capable of hunting small game on their own.

General Care

Ratonero Valenciano has basic needs as any ordinary canine, including adequate feeding and exercise. You should understand that this breed tends to be lively indoors because of their inborn hunting spirit. This fact requires you to ensure your Ratonero Valenciano gets the right physical exercise daily. Here's a breakdown:

Diet

The amount of food given is dependent on age, size, and activity level as well. A Ratonero Valenciano eats approximately 1-2 cups of regular dog feed per day depending on their individual growth rate.

Nutritional Requirements

  • High-energy food: As they are known for their hunting instinct, they would need high-calorie rich nutrient balanced diet, which is essential for exercise and muscle building.
  • Good Protein Intake: To build strong muscles, a Ratonero Valenciano needs sufficient amounts of high-quality protein. This can come in the form of meat-based foods like chicken or fish.

To know about more information regarding diets please consult professionals

Exercise

Ratonero Valencianos need a lot of regular exercise to maintain their overall health and physique. Since they are built for hunting, exercise is mandatory every day.

  • A minimum period of 60 minutes should be allocated each day, preferably divided between morning and evening time slots.
  • Physical activities that challenge them might include jogging, running around with friends and family, playing dog sports such as agility, etc.,

Ratonero Valenciano Issues

A healthy-looking Rat Terrier may face a number of potential issues. The breed has already had problems due to the early start of their genetics project, which resulted too rapidly to produce robust and disease-free Rataud valência breed. It is possible that your Rat terrier breeds are predisposed to these health concerns.

  1. Deafness: Many rat terriers have experienced deafness with age.
  2. Patellar luxation: Some rat terriers are seen experiencing knee problems which means the kneecap may not stay in its usual position during some physical activities.
  3. Legg-Calve-Perthes syndrome: One of them has been known to experience this bone problem, particularly their hips and also back legs

These genetic issues make it a concern for any would-be dog lovers to research well into the ancestry background before taking one home with you!

Feeding a Ratonero Valenciano

Ratonero Vaelncianos are eating creatures as they need adequate nutrition to perform well. There are two types of food, high energy and a balanced normal diet given to them.

  • Young pups: In the event your Ratonera Valenciau pup has grown up, don't forget that at a tender age it must have the high-energy meat based feed rich in vitamins.
  • Adult Ones: Generally an average adult Ratonero gets balanced nutrient food.

There are some things you should always be aware of.

Amount

The size of an active rat- hunting dog like this one depends upon its feeding pattern; hence, make sure to provide the right quantity. If they grow up big or small and are overweight in their adulthood then it may have severe consequences.

High-quality protein source

Their high-energy requirements necessitate a diet rich in protein coming from meat sources such as chicken, fish.

Ratonero Valenciano Behavior and Training Tips

You'll need to train them if you get yourself one of these creatures. Because they were bred to hunt mice, there is a great possibility that these small game-capturing dogs might become aggressive when around pets smaller in size. Here are some advice for training your Rat-toner Valenciau:

Start training early:

Ratonero Valenciano puppies start learning good manners from an early age.

  • Training period: Ensure they can learn simple tricks within the first few weeks.
  • Behavior: Their strong prey drive may result in unexpected attacks on other animals smaller than them if not properly trained.

Training with love:

A rat-terrier breed requires attention due to intense desire hunting instincts which might turn it into an aggressive wild animal at any moment. Therefore take necessary steps and teach those tricks patiently because they're quick learners but always get the best guidance from a professional.

Ratonero Valenciano Grooming Guide

Grooming is an essential aspect of owning a dog, not just for their looks but also to keep them hygienic. Here are some detailed grooming sessions you'd want

Coat type:

Their fur has different colors like white, black, brown, etc. The Ratonero Valenciano breed usually comes with short coats which do require little maintenance compared.

  • Groom your rat terrier on a regular basis: Every 7 days is recommended.
  • Brushing helps keep their hair healthy and shiny as it also removes dirt.

Considerations for Pet Parents

When you decide to get one, ensure that they will be well taken care of. Taking up pet like this will require you in advance.

Space needed:

Rat-toner Valenciaus need a significant amount of exercise space daily. They will definitely thrive if provided ample living place outdoors where it can be easily hunted game with minimal supervision while indoors.

Ratonero Valenciano FAQs

Rationale Vaelncianos may have various concerns that require your consideration and immediate solution to prevent any major injuries or other damages.

  • Is a Ratonero Valenciano good for families? This breed is very family-friendly. However, please ensure children are properly informed about the dog's instinct and potential dangers associated with it when hunting small game. It would also best to avoid giving them any animal prey as toys when at young age.
  • How long does a rat terrier live? A Ratonero Valenciano has an average life expectancy of 10 -12 years. However, they are prone to getting illnesses which may decrease their lifespan depending on the health condition.
  • Do Rat toner Valencia breed need regular exercise Rationel Vaelcntians need a lot of physical activities daily in the evening and morning for improved overall health.

Conclusion

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