Libro Razas Españolas

Ratonero-Bodeguero Andaluz R.S.C.E. Standard No. 404 (Not Accepted F.C.I.) Origin: Spain Utilization: In the hunting of rats and mice, which easily grow up in cellars and stables. It can also be used in the hunting of the rabbit and hare and in the evacuation of vermin out of burrows. Classification R.S.C.E.: Group 3 - Terriers, Section 1: Large and medium-sized Terriers. I. Brief Historical Summary It is believed that this is the result of matings of little terriers brought by the big English wine and even mining companies, to the South of Spain at the end of 18th and the beginning of 19th centuries, with the rat dogs owned by the sailors and dockers of the Spanish South coast. Dogs without a defined breed, but with a innate predisposition to hunting and killing rats and mice, that were abundant in commercial ports, wine cellars, stores, stables and factories. The white colour almost uniform with some black and tan spots were chosen to easily be seen in the dark in the mentioned places. At the beginning of 20th century, the breed was more or less defined and this is even reinforced when it receives another blood contribution, this time the Toy Terrier. II. General Appearance Medium size dog, of medium proportions, of more elongated harmonious shape in females. White colour with black spots on a thin and tight skin that allows to perceive an athletic constitution, but light, that makes him surprisingly agile, strong and fast in the hunting of rats, mice and in the confrontation with vermin. III. Important Proportions Height at withers/ longitudinal diameter: 1/1, elongated females are accepted. Length of the head/length of the skull: 8/5. Height at withers/length of the head: 5/2. IV. Behaviour / Temperament Restless, very expressive and intelligent look, paying constant attention to any noise or movement, emphasizing his tenacity and disposition to hunting rodents at any time. He is able to manage on both his sight and smell to find his preys, on which he flings with extremely coordinated, agile and fast movements. Brave and with temper, more when he is facing bigger enemies (foxes, badgers, etc.). Faithful, happy and nice as partner, with great capacity of adaptation to any environment and place. V. Head Well proportioned, triangular seen from above and in profile. Convergent cranio- facial lines. CRANIAL REGION: Skull: Slightly subconvex. Stop: Soft, little pronounced. Las razas caninas españolas - Spanish canine breeds 173