• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Basque Ratter Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Basque Ratter so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank335
Reviews0
User Ratings
Compare the Basque Ratter With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Basque Ratter dog profile picture
OriginSpain flagSpain
Other Names
What other names does the Basque Ratter have?
Enkarterriko billanukoLittle Villein of Las EncartacionesRat hunting dogRatonero vascoVillanucuVillanuco de Las Encartaciones Basque
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Basque Ratter Size and Weight

Size
Is a Basque Ratter small, medium or large dog?

How big do Basque Ratter get?

What is the average size of a Basque Ratter?

Small
Weight
How much does the Basque Ratter weigh? How much should a Basque Ratter weight? What is the normal weight of a Basque Ratter? How much does a full-grown Basque Ratter weight?
10-25 pounds (6-11kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Basque Ratter?
17.5 pounds (8 kg)
Height
How tall is the Basque Ratter? Basque Ratter height:
10-13 inches (21-33 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Basque Ratter?
12 inches (27 cm)

Basque Ratter Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Basque Ratter puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Basque Ratter in the United States? How much money is a Basque Ratter?

Where to buy a Basque Ratter with a good pedigree?

Unknown
Unfortunately, we couldn't find the price of the Basque Ratter. If you have a Basque Ratter for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Basque Ratter gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Basque Ratter? How many Basque Ratter are there in the world?
Average: The Basque Ratter is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Basque Ratter Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Basque Ratter? Is the Basque Ratter breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Basque Ratter dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Basque Ratter is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Basque Ratter dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Basque Ratter?
Basque Ratter dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Basque Ratter good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Basque Ratter dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Basque Ratter dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Basque Ratter dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Basque Ratter Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Basque Ratter have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
CuriousOutgoingHuntingAdaptableCalmTolerant
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Basque Ratter sensitivity:
Basque Ratter dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Basque Ratter a good family dog?
Slightly Below Average: Basque Ratter dogs may seem unfriendly sometimes due to their independence. Their happiness doesn't depend on their owner's emotional level.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Enkarterriko billanuko need? Basque Ratter social needs:
Basque Ratter dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Basque Ratter to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Basque Ratter roam?
Basque Ratter dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Basque Ratter have high prey drive?
Basque Ratter dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Basque Ratter dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Basque Ratter Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Basque Ratters, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Basque Ratter dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Enkarterriko billanuko bark?
Average to High: The Basque Ratter is a vocal breed. Not the best choice if you prefer a quiet breed. They often bark loudly and howl sometimes. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Basque Ratter good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Basque Ratter in an apartment?
It is not recommended to keep the Basque Ratter breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Basque Ratter indoors by introducing daily routines.

Basque Ratter Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Basque Ratter dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Basque Ratter be left alone? How long can you leave a Basque Ratter alone?
Basque Ratter dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Basque Ratter Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Basque Ratter has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Basque Ratter? How much bite force does a Basque Ratter have? How strong is a Basque Ratter bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Basque Ratter bite force: Weak. The Basque Ratter bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Basque Ratter measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Basque Ratter may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Basque Ratter being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Basque Ratter bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Basque Ratter puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Basque Ratter can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Biting Potential
Do Basque Ratter bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Enkarterriko billanuko? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Basque Ratter? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Basque Ratter has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Basque Ratter do?
Basque Ratter dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Basque Ratter dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Basque Ratter Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Basque Ratter dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Basque Ratters tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Basque Ratter breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Basque Ratter see the vet?
Frequent
The Basque Ratter should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Basque Ratter dogs live? How old can a Basque Ratter be? What is the age limit of the Basque Ratter? How many years can the oldest Basque Ratter live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Basque Ratter?

How long is the lifespan of a Basque Ratter?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Basque Ratter: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Basque Ratter Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Basque Ratter have? What is the activity level of the Basque Ratter?
Basque Ratter dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Basque Ratter need? How much exercise do Basque Ratter dogs require per day?

Do Basque Ratter dogs need a lot of exercises?

Basque Ratter dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Basque Ratter breed need?
Basque Ratter dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Basque Ratter Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Basque Ratter need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Basque Ratter breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Basque Ratter? How much food should I feed my Basque Ratter?
3/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Basque Ratter risk for obesity:
Average: The Basque Ratter has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Basque Ratter weight regularly.

Basque Ratter Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Basque Ratter have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
ThickHarsh
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Basque Ratter coats?
Black Red Fawn Copper
Grooming
How to groom the Basque Ratter and how often? How often should I take my Basque Ratter to the groomer?
Average: The Basque Ratter requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Basque Ratter, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Basque Ratter dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Enkarterriko billanuko? Do Basque Ratter dogs shed a lot?
Basque Ratter dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Basque Ratter need a bath? How often should you give a Basque Ratter a bath? Can I bathe my Basque Ratter every day?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Basque Ratter breed hypoallergenic?
No
Basque Ratter dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Basque Ratter has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Basque Ratter drool?
The Basque Ratter is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Basque Ratter Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Basque Ratter dogs get along with other pets? Are Basque Ratter dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Basque Ratter dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Basque Ratter temperament with other people:
Basque Ratter dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Basque Ratter dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Basque Ratter temperament with children:
Basque Ratter dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Basque Ratter dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Basque Ratter breed live with a cat?
Basque Ratter dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Basque Ratter good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Basque Ratter dogs get along with other dogs?
Basque Ratter dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Basque Ratter can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Basque Ratter breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Basque Ratter breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Basque Ratter dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Basque Ratter dogs good office canines? Do Basque Ratter dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Basque Ratter is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Basque Ratter dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Enkarterriko billanuko temperament with senior people? Are Basque Ratter dogs good for elderly owners?
Basque Ratters are usually recommended for elderly people.

Basque Ratter As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Basque Ratter be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Basque Ratter is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Basque Ratter be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Basque Ratter be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Basque Ratter is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Basque Ratter be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Basque Ratter is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Basque Ratter be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Basque Ratter is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Basque Ratter be a boat dog?

Not really

Basque Ratter breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Basque Ratter be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Basque Ratter is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Basque Ratter dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Basque Ratter Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Basque Ratter pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Basque Ratter breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Basque Ratter: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Basque Ratter have in a litter? How many puppies can the Basque Ratter breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Basque Ratter have? How many puppies can a Basque Ratter give birth to?
1-6 puppies

Basque Ratter Recognition

AKC Group
Is Basque Ratter recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Basque Ratter recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Basque Ratter Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Basque Ratter dogs have great intelligence.
  • Adaptability: Basque Ratter dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Basque Ratter dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Basque Ratter dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Basque Ratters are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Basque Ratter dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Health Issues: Basque Ratters tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Basque Ratter dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: It is not recommended to keep the Basque Ratter breed in the home.
  • Mouthiness: Basque Ratter dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Basque Ratter dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Basque Ratter dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Office Friendly: Basque Ratter is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Basque Ratter History

The Basque Ratter or Enkarterriko Billanuko is a ratter-type breed as it can be concluded from its name originating in Spain. The Villanuco de Las Enartaciones is another name for the Basque Ratter. Be careful, though! This breed is related to (but distinct from) the Villano de Las Encartaciones. Those two extra letters (UC in Villanuco) make all the difference... between a small agile ratter and a large, strong cattle dog. Very little is known about its certain ancestry and history. Sadly since 2009, they are considered a critically endangered breed. Now there are an estimated 50 dogs alive representing this breed, making them very rare indeed and in danger of extinction.

Although there is very little published information about the Basque Ratter's origins we can know for sure that his little, nimble dog is from the Basque Country, where they made their living by hunting rats and vermin from farmsteads just as most ratter dogs. Other comparable Ratters emerged from the provinces of Biscay, Cantabria, and Burgos as well. These dogs have a shady history that dates back centuries. Dogs brought by Roman, Carthaginian, and Egyptian traders may have been their distant ancestors. These dogs were then crossed with local dogs to create breeds that were unique to each region.

A ratter is a dog type specifically bred to hunt rats and other vermin. Ratters are small to medium-sized dogs with short, smooth coats. Although some breeds have semi-erect and folded ears, their ears are frequently erect. It was said that one of the sports associated with having an American rat terrier was making competitive wagers on which dog could kill the most mice or rats in a specific amount of time. One dog was thrown into a barn and killed 2501 rats in seven hours.

The Villanuco is one of five Basque dog breeds: Euskal Artzain Txakurra (Basque Shepherd Dog), Erbi Txakur (Erbi Txakur), Pachón de Vitoria (Pachón de Vitoria), and Villano de Las Encartaciones (Enkarterriko Billano). All of these varieties are native to the Basque Autonomous Community, with the exception of the Pachón de Vitoria, and were designated as traditional Basque breeds by government order in 2001. It was one of fourteen indigenous animal breeds featured in Pas Vasco's 2007–2013 rural development plan.

Rate The Basque Ratter Breed

Basque Ratter Comments, Reviews and Questions