Ratonero Murciano

Also called Ratonero Murciano de Huerta

A lively little working dog with a strong sense of loyalty and a protective streak, which also makes it a handy watchdog.

Size	Small
Weight	5 to 7 kg (11 to 15 lb)1
Height	28 to 35 cm (11 to 14 in)males 30 to 35 cm, females 28 to 30 cm1
Coat	Short, smooth coat
Origin	Spain, in the Region of Murcia.2 1

Rare breedShort profile

loyal

protective and watchful

quick and agile ratter

1 2

Personality what they are like

A lively little working dog with a strong sense of loyalty and a protective streak, which also makes it a handy watchdog.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth coat

A small, compact and active ratting dog with a smooth coat no longer than about 2 cm.1 2

Colourstricolourblack and tancinnamonblack1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Ratonero Murciano. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short, smooth coat needs little more than an occasional brush.1

The story where it all began

This small ratter has long kept mice and rats out of farms, wine cellars, warehouses and orchards around Murcia. Local tradition links it to dogs brought by the Romans from Egypt. A preservation programme started in 1997 had reached its third generation and about 80 breeding dogs by 2009.2 1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Its traditional job was clearing rodents from bodegas (wine cellars) and orchards.1
2
The preservation programme uses DNA testing to help manage the breeding population.2
3
Its breed description caps coat length at about 2 cm, keeping it sleek and easy to care for.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name "Ratonero Murciano" translates to "Murcian rat-catcher," reflecting the breed's historical use for hunting rodents in the orchards (huerta) of the Murcia region of Spain. It is also known as Ratonero Murciano de Huerta.3

Name ideas for your new friend

ChispaTruenoLunaBrunoNubeCocoZetaPimientoOliSombraRayoMiel

A day in the life told by a Ratonero Murciano

I start my day with a proud bark, announcing that all is well in my domain. My humans know I'm the guardian of this home, and I take my duty seriously. I sniff around the garden, chasing away imaginary threats with a wag of my tail. When my favorite person sits down, I lean against their leg, a loyal shadow. We take a stroll through the neighborhood, and I greet every passerby with a friendly glance, though I keep one eye on the street. Back home, I nap in a sunbeam, my ears twitching at distant sounds. At night, I sleep at the foot of the bed, ready to protect my pack.

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

Recognised by the official bits

None (major kennel clubs): Not recognised by any major kennel club; promoted by a Spanish breed club through shows and working trials.2
Club del Ratonero Murciano: Breed club that runs exhibitions and working trials and a preservation programme begun in 1997.1

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

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
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

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

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
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 Ratonero Murciano, and at what times?

Adult Ratonero Murcianos should be fed at least two meals a day, with puppies needing three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help their digestion, so try to feed at the same times each day. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4

What should a Ratonero Murciano eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A balanced commercial dog food is ideal for your Ratonero Murciano. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.5

How often should I bathe a Ratonero Murciano?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Ratonero Murciano need brushing?

Your Ratonero Murciano's short, smooth coat needs only occasional brushing. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing once a week to keep it clean and reduce shedding. A soft bristle brush works well.1 6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Ratonero Murciano's nails, and how often?

Trim your Ratonero Murciano's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, roughly every three weeks. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Ratonero Murciano need?

Your Ratonero Murciano is a lively working dog that needs daily exercise. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy activities that engage their natural ratting instincts.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Ratonero Murciano's teeth and ears?

Brush your Ratonero Murciano's teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check their ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture, but never push anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Ratonero Murciano live?

Lifespan varies for each dog, so ask your breeder or vet for an estimate based on your Ratonero Murciano's health and lineage. With good care, many small dogs live into their teens.

Is a Ratonero Murciano good with children and other pets?

The Ratonero Murciano is a loyal and protective dog, which can make it good with children if properly socialized. Its watchdog nature means it may be wary of other pets, so early introductions are important. Always supervise interactions.1

Can a Ratonero Murciano be left alone?

Whether a Ratonero Murciano can be left alone depends on its individual personality and training. As a loyal working dog, it may prefer company, so start with short absences and provide toys. Consult a good breeder for specific advice.

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.