At a glance the quick version
Same range for both sexes in the FCI standard.
Coat and looks how to spot one
smooth short coat
A light, small-framed terrier with a fine, short coat no more than about 2 cm long.1
Personality what they are like
A bright, busy and happy terrier that is devoted to its family. It tends to be a bit reserved with strangers and will bravely look after its home.1
Daily activity how busy a day looks
An active hunting terrier that enjoys daily walks, play and chances to use its nose and quick reactions.1
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The short, fine coat needs very little work; an occasional brush or rub-down is enough.1
Home where they are happiest
Adapts to town or country as long as it gets activity; it was traditionally kept on farms as a vermin catcher and companion.12
Company who they like around
Forms close bonds with its people and enjoys being part of family life.1
The story where it all began
Small ratting dogs have been kept in the Valencia region for a long time, and records from the late 19th century describe them hunting water rats, rabbits and moles on farms. They are linked to early British terrier imports mixed with local dogs. Spain's kennel club recognised the breed in 2004 and the FCI accepted it provisionally in 2022.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1, standard no. 370, provisionally accepted 21 June 20221
- Real Sociedad Canina de España (RSCE)
- Recognised 20042
How many 523 dogs registered with the RSCE as of 31 December 20102
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Valencian Terrier. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
- Ear checkevery 2 weeks
- 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
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Valencian Terrier, and at what times?
Feed your Valencian Terrier at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent times help their digestion, but the exact schedule is up to you. Check the food label and ask your vet for portion sizes.3
What should a Valencian Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A balanced dog food is best, and treats should be safe. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and raw dough. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.4
How often should I bathe a Valencian Terrier?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your terrier gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.5 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Valencian Terrier need brushing?
The short, fine coat needs very little work; an occasional brush or rub-down is enough. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days to keep the coat healthy and remove loose hair.1 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Valencian Terrier's nails, and how often?
Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 21 days as a starting point. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demo.5 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Valencian Terrier need?
This active hunting terrier enjoys daily walks, play, and chances to use its nose and quick reactions. Furry Diary's plan includes daily exercise, so aim for at least one good walk and some playtime each day.1 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Valencian Terrier's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste only. Check ears every 14 days and clean gently without pushing anything into the ear canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.5 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Valencian Terrier live?
Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your breeder or vet for an estimate based on the dog's health and lineage. With good care, many small terriers live into their teens.
Is a Valencian Terrier good with children and other pets?
This breed is devoted to its family but can be reserved with strangers. How it gets on with children and other pets depends on early socialisation and individual temperament. Ask your breeder about the specific dog's history.
Can a Valencian Terrier be left alone?
Valencian Terriers form close bonds with their people and enjoy being part of family life. How long they can be left alone varies; some may struggle with long separations. Talk to your breeder or vet for advice tailored to your dog.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at [email protected] and we will fix it.
- FCI Standard No. 370 Gos Rater Valencià fci.beused for history, size, weight, coat, colours, temperament, use
- Wikipedia: Valencian Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for RSCE recognition, registrations, fun fact
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- FCI nomenclature: Gos Rater Valencià (370) fci.beused for recognition
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.