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Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Ratonero Murciano de Huerta so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank485
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OriginSpain flagSpain
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Huerta RatterRatonero MurcianoMurcian Ratter
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Learn how big the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed typically grows.
Small
Weight Statistics
How much does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed.
Male: 13-14 pounds (6-6.5 kg), Female: 12-13 pounds (5.5-6 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta?
Male: 13.5 pounds (6.25 kg), Female: 12.5 pounds (5.75 kg)
Height
How tall is the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Ratonero Murciano de Huerta height:
Male: 13-13.5 inch (33-35 cm), Female: 12-13.5 inch (31-33 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta?
Male: 13.25 inch (34 cm), Female: 12.75 inch (32 cm)

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Ratonero Murciano de Huerta costs.
Unknown
Unfortunately, we couldn't find the price of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta. If you have a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? How many Ratonero Murciano de Huerta are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Discover the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Smart: The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's trainability and response to training methods.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta as a watchdog? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's alertness and guarding instincts.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta protective of its territory? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's guarding instincts and behavior.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta have? Learn about characteristic Ratonero Murciano de Huerta temperament and behavior traits.
ActiveAlertIntelligentGentleFast
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Ratonero Murciano de Huerta sensitivity:
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta a good family dog?
Average to High: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Huerta Ratter need? Ratonero Murciano de Huerta social needs:
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Ratonero Murciano de Huerta roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Ratonero Murciano de Huerta have high prey drive?
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta bark a lot? Learn about typical Ratonero Murciano de Huerta vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average to High: The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is a vocal breed. Not the best choice if you prefer a quiet breed. They often bark loudly and howl sometimes. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed.
Average: Ratonero Murciano de Huertas, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta live in an apartment? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's suitability for apartment living.
Apartment-friendly dog the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed. It is best if you have a small garden where it can occasionally go out to do its business, but this is not important at all. You can exercise him enough with a walk or two a day, so he's comfortable in an apartment.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta be left alone? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's tolerance to solitude.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta biting potential? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta mouthy? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's tendency to use mouth during play.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta bite? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta bite force: Weak. The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Ratonero Murciano de Huerta measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Ratonero Murciano de Huerta being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed.
14-16 years
The average lifespan of Ratonero Murciano de Huerta: 15 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta handle different weather? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Discover typical conditions affecting the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed.
Very healthy dog breed. The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta rarely meets with the veterinarian.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta need vet visits? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's veterinary care requirements.
Rare
The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta? Understand daily activity needs of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta need? How much exercise do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs require per day?

Do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs need a lot of exercises?

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed need?
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta prone to weight gain? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's obesity risks.
Average: The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta need daily? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's feeding requirements.
1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta hypoallergenic? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta come in? Discover all possible Ratonero Murciano de Huerta color variations.
BlackCinnamonBlack & TanCinnamon & White MarkingsBlack & White Markings
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta need? Learn about Ratonero Murciano de Huerta coat maintenance requirements.
Average: The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Ratonero Murciano de Huerta, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Drooling Tendency
Does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta drool a lot? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's drooling habits.
The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta smell bad? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta have? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's fur characteristics.
Dense
Bathing Needs
How often does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta need baths? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Huerta Ratter? Do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs shed a lot?
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta good with children? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's behavior around kids of different ages.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta get along with other pets? Discover the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's compatibility with other animals.
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Ratonero Murciano de Huerta temperament with other people:
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed live with a cat?
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Ratonero Murciano de Huerta good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs get along with other dogs?
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs good office canines? Do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Huerta Ratter temperament with senior people? Are Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs good for elderly owners?
Ratonero Murciano de Huertas are usually recommended for elderly people.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta be a service dog? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta good at detection work? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta do search and rescue? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta good on boats? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta pull carts? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta used in military service? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
1-6 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta pregnant? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Ratonero Murciano de Huerta: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta in? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Ratonero Murciano de Huerta in? Learn about the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Smart: The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs have great intelligence.
  • Health Concerns: Very healthy dog breed.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Apartment-friendly dog the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breed.
  • Watchdog Rating: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Child Compatibility: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Ratonero Murciano de Huertas are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Ratonero Murciano de Huerta is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Ratonero Murciano de Huerta History

The Ratonero Murciano de Huerta or on its other name, the Murcian Ratter is a Spanish dog breed, from the region of Murcia. The breed also went by the name of Farm Dogs, Huerta Dogs (after a region where they were particularly prevalent), and Dog of Irrigation Ditches (a popular place for rats to nest and breed). As the breed’s name already suggests, the dogs were traditionally kept in the region of Murcia, and were developed to be bold hunters of rat, mouse, and other small rodents, which would otherwise have decimated local farmers’ crops. The dogs also used to help control the vermin population.

The long history of the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta starts before the records began. It is widely believed that the breed is descended from dogs introduced to the region by ancient Egyptian, Carthaginian, and Roman traders, who brought these dogs alongside them on their boats. Between the 16th and 17th centuries, these imported canines then were bred with local dogs to produce the Murcian Ratter. In the 18th century, further modifications took place onward, with the process of crossbreeding them with the Manchester Terrier, the English Toy Terrier, and the Fox Terrier. These breeds all have a strong prey drive in common and a fearlessness that makes them ideal for hunting purposes. Indeed, this lively dogs’ popularity peaked in the 18th and 19th centuries when they had an important practical role to play.

Their success as a hunting dog made them widely popular working dogs in their native areas in Spain. Back in the 18th century, the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta breeders made every effort to keep the breed pure and avoid any further outcrossing. These dogs also had an outstanding character making them companionable to people and reliable around children. Thus, farmers were likely to treat their dog as a member of the family, as well as a working animal, which, today, stands them in good stead.

Although, unfortunately, because of the changing farming practices and techniques, the niche filled by the Murcian Ratter became redundant. It took until the mid-20th century for their plight to be recognized, and concerted efforts made to revive the breed and save it from dying out altogether.  The result being that this once popular dog is now considered to be a rare dog breed. However, in 1997 a well-planned breeding program was established to save the breed from extinction and by 2009 the program was up to its third generation, with 80 breeding specimens and a DNA testing program. To some extent, these efforts have been rewarded with the Ratonero Murciano de Huerta now popular in Murcia as a pet and also as a companion.

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