Decker Hunting Terriers are alert, affectionate, and lively. They adopt these traits from various rat tarriers that their breeder used when making this breed. These dogs look just like rat terriers but with a few key differences, like their overall size, the width of their skulls, and folds on their face. Physical differences aside, Decker’s also have different personalities than the Rat terriers.
For starters, they are not yappy like other terriers. Their energy levels are high, due to which they are quite lively, alert, and fun to be around. But most importantly, they are uber-driven to hunt. In fact, in many parts of the country, these loyal dogs are used exclusively by hunters to help them hunt.
Decker Hunting Terrier History
Decker Hunting Terriers are purebred dogs. The person behind the development of this beautiful breed is Milton Decker. It all began when Milton searched to buy plant stock for his nursery and ended up at the wholesale nursery located in Eugene, Oregon. This nursery was owned by a couple, Chris Lindseth and Betty Lindseth.
While at that nursery, Milton came across three handsome Rat terriers owned by the Lindseths. They allowed him to take one home, and Milton chooses henry, a large and Shy terrier. He used Henry during his hunting expeditions and was impressed by the dogs hunting abilities. So, he decided to breed them with other large Rat terriers with the same temperament as Henry, and eventually, Decker Hunting Terrier became a separate breed.
Decker Hunting Terrier Characteristics
Decker Hunting Terriers are well-built, sturdy, and muscular. They have a compact build, but it is meaty simultaneously, giving this canine an athletic look. But their distinctive features must have to be their deep chests, muscular necks. And strong legs that support their well-muscled bodies.
These legs, combined with their strong shoulders, enable them to run fast and jump high. Their coats show a lot of variation; they can be solid, bi-colored, and tri-colored, so you’ll have a lot to choose from. The possible coat colors include; black, white, pearl, apricot, tan, blue-tan, blue-white-brindle, black-tan, and red-white.
How Big do Decker Hunting Terrier Get
These Lively dogs are usually bigger than most of the rat Terriers. The males have an average height of 18 – 21 inches and an average weight of around 40 and 55lbs. The females have an average height of 17 – 20 inches and an average weight of 35 and 55lbs.
How Long Does Decker Hunting Terrier Live
Usually, medium-sized doggies have a shorter life span as compared to small-sized dogs. But these healthy canines are different. They have an average lifespan between 15 – 18 years. You can easily tip this scale upwards by taking good care of them and providing the adequate attention they need.
How much does a Decker Hunting Terrier Cost
Decker Hunting Terrier’s price varies from breeder to breeder. This is largely dependent on the reputation and authenticity of the breeder. But on average, a puppy may cost between $300 and $600. Other expenses may include Grooming tools, medical expenses, and accessories like Plush toys, furniture cover, and dog beds.
Decker Hunting Terrier Temperament/Personality
Decker Hunting Terrier is intelligent, friendly, and loyal. These active dogs are always ready to go out and accompany you wherever you go. Their adventurous spirit makes them the perfect companion for outgoing people. They have exceptional intelligence and high energies, like other rat and fox terriers.
These dogs are usually comfortable around new faces; they may take some time to adjust and familiarize themselves. They do have a drive to hunt, which may cause them to chase small animals. Otherwise, they are pretty cool around other pets. But it is important to socialize them early on to prevent them from adopting a non-social behavior.
Caring for Decker Hunting Terrier
Caring for these mellow, outgoing, and hyper-active dogs comes down to their grooming, nutrition, and daily workout routine. You have to keep their daily caloric intake under check so you won’t over-feed or under-feed them. Additionally, you have to ensure that they get an appropriate amount of exercise daily to vent their energies. Keep reading to find out all that you need to know on caring about your pup.
Decker Hunting Terrier Nutrition
As a medium-sized canine with high energy levels, this dog needs to eat a little more than the average dog. You have to feed them 3 cups of dog food daily. It would be best if you fed them three different meals throughout the day; this ensures that their metabolism keeps running and they don’t develop any weight issues.
How to Groom a Decker Hunting Terrier
Grooming this straight-haired dog with a flawless fine coat is quite easy. Their coats are usually medium in length, with medium density, and they don’t shed a lot; this means you don’t have to worry about brushing them that often. But as a rule of thumb, brush them at least twice per week. Additionally, Brush their teeth 2 – 3 times per week and clip their nails as per need.
Decker Hunting Terrier Activity Levels
Decker Hunting Terriers are highly active dogs. They love to play, jump, swim, walk or even hike and have an adventurous, outgoing spirit. They have an instinct to explore and chase prey and work with their owners. So, ensure that they get at least 60 minutes of exercise daily.
Caring for Decker Hunting Terrier
Just like all the other intelligent dogs, these hyper-active canines tend to get bored quickly if left alone for a long period. And boredom often leads to self-destructive behavior and anxiety. So as a responsible owner, it will be your responsibility to take time out from your day and keep your pup engaged.
Decker Hunting Terrier Health
Foxton is a healthy dog that doesn’t usually develop any health issues, especially early on. But as they become older, they may develop some health concerns like Patellar Luxation, Hip Dysplasia, Heart Conditions, Demodectic Mange, Skin Allergies, and Eye Diseases.
Breeds Similar to Decker Hunting Terrier
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
- Basset Bleu de Gascogne
- Italian Greagle
- Styrian Coarse Haired Hound
Best Dog Food for Decker Hunting Terriers
The best dog food for Decker Hunting Terriers is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. This dog food contains all-natural ingredient formula. It contains actual meat, fruit, whole grains, and garden veggies. The inclusion of real meat makes it a pure source of protein to build the muscle of your Decker Hunting Terrier.
- Does not contain any soy, wheat, corn, and other by-products.
- Phosphorus, vitamins, and calcium support stronger teeth and bones.
- Contains glucosamine for higher mobility and better joint health.
Best Puppy Food for Decker Hunting Terriers
The best puppy food for Decker Hunting Terriers is Purina Pro Plan Sport All Life Stages Performance 30/20 Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. This dog food contains a good amount of protein. Higher protein builds muscle and supports the health of your Decker Hunting Terrier. Moreover, the amino acid, antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and glucosamine make it super healthy and nutritious.
- High protein builds muscle.
- Contains live probiotics for supporting the immune and digestive system.
- The amino acid nourishes muscle after each exercise.
Best Dog Crate for Decker Hunting Terriers
The best dog carte for Decker Hunting Terriers is the MidWest LifeStages Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This dog crate has been designed to provide extreme comfort, safety, and security. It has an easy fold and carries configuration. So, you will require no tools for setting it up.
- Equipped with a composite pan made of plastic to provide an easy cleaning facility.
- Contains bolt latches for providing extended security.
- With the divider panel, you can grow your Decker Hunting Terriers in it.
Best Dog Bed for Decker Hunting Terriers
The best dog crate for Decker Hunting Terriers is Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Cat & Dog Bed. This furry and highly comfortable dog bed provides an excellent spot for your Decker Hunting Terrier to sleep and relax. It contains bolstered edge that supports extra orthopedic support.
- Made with faux fur to make it cozy.
- Contains additional filling that relieves muscle and joint pains.
- The cover can be easy to take care of. It can be washed with the machine for greater convenience.
Best Dog Harness for Decker Hunting Terriers
The best dog harness for hunting terriers is Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness. This dog harness very comfortable and soft. It is made of highly breathable mesh and soaks moisture to keep your dog cool. It has a lightweight construction. It stays gentle on the skin and fits well.
- Contains an easy step-in design to get in easily.
- With its 2-D rings, you can attach your leash.
- An adjustable strap provides the best fitting.
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