Pet Wiki

Andalusian Terrier

Also called Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz, Andalusian Wine-Cellar Rat-Hunting Dog, Bodeguero Jerezano, Sherry Terrier, Andalusian Ratter

Recognised breedFCI group 3Short profile

From Spain: Andalusia, especially the sherry country around Jerez de la Frontera in Cádiz province.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male10 to 12 kg12
Weight, female8 to 10 kg12
Height, male37 to 43 cm1
Height, female35 to 41 cm1
Sizesmall

Ideal 40 cm for males and 38 cm for females.

lively and intelligent
loyal and friendly
adapts easily to new surroundings
12

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense coat

A neat, close coat on a light and agile terrier frame. Most of the body is white, with a head marked in black and tan.12

Colourswhite with black and tan markings (tricolour)12

Personality what they are like

A bright, cheerful terrier with a sharp nose and eyes and plenty of hunting drive. It is known for being loyal and sociable, adapts well to different homes and is reported to get along with children.12

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Energetic working terrier that enjoys daily activity and chances to use its hunting instincts.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat is easy to keep clean with occasional brushing.1

Company who they like around

Friendly and adaptable, happy to be part of family life.12

The story where it all began

English wine merchants who settled around Jerez in the 18th and 19th centuries brought fox terrier type dogs, which were crossed with local cellar dogs to keep the sherry bodegas free of rats. A breed club formed in the 1990s, Spain recognised the breed in 2000, and the FCI followed in 2024.21

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The city of Jerez declared the breed part of its intangible cultural heritage in 2020.1

  2. 2

    Its mostly white coat made it easier to see in the dim wine cellars where it hunted.2

  3. 3

    Because of its looks it is sometimes nicknamed the Spanish Jack Russell.1

  4. 4

    Its Spanish name literally describes a rat-catching dog of the wine cellars.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Spanish name 'Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz' reflects the breed's main occupation: hunting rats and mice hidden between barrels in the wineries of Andalusia, Spain.3

Name ideas for your new friend

ChispaSoleilVinoPimientoSherryNaranjaBrisaGitanoRayoCavaLunaCoco

A day in the life told by an Andalusian Terrier

I woke up with a stretch and a yawn, ready to explore. My person opened the door, and I dashed into the garden, chasing a butterfly that flitted among the flowers. I sniffed every corner, my sharp eyes spotting a lizard under a pot. After a game of fetch with a squeaky ball, we sat on the bench, and I leaned against my person's leg, watching the world go by. Later, I trotted through the house, checking on everyone, my tail wagging. A simple, joyful day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

RSCE
Recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España in 2000.2
FCI
Accepted in September 2024 in Group 3 (Terriers).2
Spanish Ministry of Agriculture
Officially recognised as a Spanish breed (2000).1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Andalusian Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Andalusian Terrier, and at what times?

Adult Andalusian Terriers do well with at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feeding at the same times each day helps their digestion and routine. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4

What should an Andalusian Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid giving them human foods from the toxic list.5

How often should I bathe an Andalusian Terrier?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if they get very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Andalusian Terrier need brushing?

Their short, dense coat is easy to care for with a weekly brush. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days to keep it clean and remove loose hair.16 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Andalusian Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 3 weeks or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain and bleeding. If unsure, ask a vet or groomer for guidance.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Andalusian Terrier need?

This energetic terrier enjoys daily walks and playtime to use its hunting instincts. Furry Diary's plan includes daily exercise, so aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity each day.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Andalusian Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness. Never push anything into the ear canal. For dental care, ask your vet about professional cleanings.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Andalusian Terrier live?

The lifespan varies by individual, but with good care they often live into their early teens. Senior years usually start around age 10, so regular vet checkups become even more important then. Pet Wiki plan

Is an Andalusian Terrier good with children and other pets?

Yes, this breed is known for being loyal, sociable, and good with children. They adapt well to different homes and are reported to get along with kids. Always supervise interactions with very young children.12

Can an Andalusian Terrier be left alone?

They are friendly and adaptable, but like most dogs, they prefer company. If left alone for long periods, they may become bored. Provide toys and a comfortable space, and consider a dog walker or daycare if needed.12

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

You might also like

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for names, size, colours, temperament, recognition, fun facts
  2. Ratonero bodeguero andaluz - Wikipedia (Spanish) es.wikipedia.orgused for RSCE and FCI recognition, history, temperament, colour fact
  3. en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.