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Valencian Terrier
Terrier breed from Valencia, Spain
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Valencian Terrier
The Valencian Terrier is a medium-sized, smooth-coated terrier originating from Valencia, Spain. Its estimated adult weight ranges from 6 to 8 kilograms, and height from 30 to 40 centimeters, with a modelled lifespan of 12 to 15 years. The breed is described as intelligent, energetic, alert, loyal, and affectionate. Its energy and trainability are both rated 4 out of 5, indicating a fairly active and responsive dog. Grooming needs are low (score 1), and shedding is moderate (score 2). Suitability with children and other dogs is rated 3 out of 5, and apartment suitability is also 3, suggesting adaptability but not ideal for every household. Recognition status varies by registry; the breed is recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de España and provisionally by the FCI as of 2022.
Quick facts
Valencian Terrier at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupTerrier
OriginValencia, Spain
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight6–8 kilogram
Female weight6–8 kilogram
Male height30–40 centimetre
Female height30–40 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Valencian Terrier, also known as Gos Rater Valencià or Ratonero Valenciano, was developed in the Valencian region of Spain. Its historical purpose was vermin control on farms and stables, leveraging its terrier instincts to hunt rats and other pests. The breed's development is tied to the agricultural landscape of Valencia, where it served as a working dog for rodent management. Recognition of the breed has progressed over time. It is recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de España, the Spanish kennel club, and received provisional recognition by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 2022, placed in Group 3 (Terriers). However, recognition status varies by registry, and not all organizations may officially acknowledge the breed. The breed's history is rooted in its working role, but specific dates of origin or detailed historical events are not available from the supplied facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
6–8 kilogramAdult weight30–40 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesSmoothCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentenergeticalertloyalaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
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.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Valencian Terrier-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.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Valencian Terrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight6–8 kilogramAdult female weight6–8 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Valencian Terrier?
The Valencian Terrier is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 6 to 8 kilograms, and height is 30 to 40 centimeters. The modelled lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
What is the temperament of the Valencian Terrier?
The breed is described as intelligent, energetic, alert, loyal, and affectionate. Individual dogs may vary, but these traits are commonly associated with the breed.
How much exercise does a Valencian Terrier need?
With an energy score of 4 out of 5, the Valencian Terrier is quite energetic and likely requires regular daily exercise. Activities such as walks, playtime, or mental stimulation are recommended.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low, with a score of 1 out of 5. The smooth coat requires minimal brushing. Shedding is moderate (score 2), so occasional cleaning may be needed.
Is the Valencian Terrier suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Suitability with children and other dogs is rated 3 out of 5, indicating moderate compatibility. Early socialization and supervision are recommended, as individual temperaments can vary.
Can a Valencian Terrier live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5, suggesting it can adapt to apartment living if given sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. However, it may be better suited to a home with a yard.
Where does the Valencian Terrier originate from?
The breed originates from Valencia, Spain. It was historically used for vermin control on farms and stables. Recognition status varies by registry; it is recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de España and provisionally by the FCI since 2022.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.