
Terrier breed from Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
The Ca Rater MallorquĂ is a small, agile terrier-type dog from the Spanish island of Mallorca. It has a compact, athletic build and a short, smooth coat. The breed is known for being alert, energetic, intelligent, loyal, and courageous. Its primary historical role was controlling rats and other vermin on farms and in households. Recognition status varies by registry; it is provisionally recognized by the FCI and recognized as a native Spanish breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 10 to 15 kg, height from 30 to 38 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 15 years. These measurements are modelled estimates, not confirmed data.
The Ca Rater Mallorquà was developed on the Spanish island of Mallorca, part of the Balearic Islands. Its name reflects its purpose: 'rater' means rat-catcher in Catalan. The breed was used for centuries to control rats and other vermin in farms, stables, and households. Its small size and agility allowed it to pursue prey into tight spaces. The breed is classified in the Terrier group, though its exact origins are not documented in the supplied facts. Recognition of the breed varies by registry. It is provisionally recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and is recognized as a native Spanish breed. However, the supplied facts do not specify which other registries recognize it or the date of any recognition. The breed's history is tied to its working role on Mallorca, but no specific historical events or dates are provided. The breed's development and use are based on its function as a vermin hunter, not on documented breeding programs.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dogâchild interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
No Ca Rater MallorquĂ-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
The Ca Rater MallorquĂ is a medium-sized dog. Estimated adult weight is 10â15 kg for both males and females, and estimated adult height is 30â38 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12â15 years. These are modelled estimates, not confirmed measurements.
The breed is described as alert, energetic, intelligent, loyal, and courageous. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
The breed has an energy score of 4 out of 5, indicating high energy. Regular daily exercise is important, but specific exercise requirements are not detailed in the supplied facts.
Grooming needs are low, with a grooming score of 1 out of 5. The short coat requires minimal maintenance. Shedding is moderate, with a shedding score of 3 out of 5.
Child suitability is rated 3 out of 5, and dog compatibility is also 3 out of 5. This suggests moderate compatibility, but individual temperament and socialization play a significant role. Not every dog will be equally suitable.
Apartment suitability is rated 4 out of 5, indicating it can adapt to apartment living if given sufficient exercise. However, its high energy means daily activity is necessary.
The breed originates from Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands, Spain. It was developed to control rats and other vermin on farms and in households. Recognition varies by registry; it is provisionally recognized by the FCI and recognized as a native Spanish breed.
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.