DECKER TERRIER HOME
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NEWSLETTER
A Bi-Annual Publication
06/01/2011 Issue #7
The Reason why Decker Terriers are not Rat Terriers
We often get emails here at Decker Terrier Home asking what the differences are between a Standard Rat Terrier and a Decker (Giant) Terrier. We have realized that there is basically nowhere to find those differences explained in detail or by photo example, we are going to use some photos courtesy of our members to illustrate the differences here with some short explanations also. We want to make it clear here that Decker Terriers did decend from Rat Terriers and that they have Rat Terrier qualities with Basenji & other breeds mixed in from the 1970's. Very clearly they are their own distinct stand alone dog breed today. Deckers are a purebred dog that evolved over 35 years ago, they are a pedigree dog and they have a mother registry United All Breed Registry UABR that preserves and keeps the lines intact. Our group will keep moving forward with plans to see them recognized in the United Kennel Club and possibly AKC at some point in the future and they will stand alone. We as a group do not condone cross breeding with any other breed of dogs besides Standard Rat Terriers with specific qualifications. The members are making a positive effort to ensure PLL (Primary Lense Luxation) does not get transfered to our breed. All Decker Terriers whom have been tested and are of direct lineage are Clear of this defect. We promote excellent health and testing from our members so that the future of our Decker Terrier is ensured.
*The Head*
Please note the head shape is quite different here, the smaller Rat Terrier has a lighter build and fine bone structure. The Decker Terrier has a broad head with wrinkling on the forehead and a wider muzzle.
*The Build*
Take note here that the body build of the Rat Terrier is again much lighter, finer and quite small. The Decker Terrier has a massive build with bone and a cut muscle definition as example shows here.
Again Duchess & Baby both small Rat Terriers
*Ability and Temperament*
Smaller 13#-20# and 13-16"" Rat Terriers can only hunt small prey mice, voles and an occassional rabbit. They are also much more hyper and active being quite the yapper with an inherent nervous tendancy. However the Decker Terrier average is 17-19" tall and 25-35# with occassionally smaller and larger dogs seen. Deckers are quite capable of strolling into a show ring/ hunting coon, possum and will surround and harrass hogs. They are the perfect companion who can jog with you or hunt all day and still be on the couch at the end of the day and they are loyal beyond any in comparison.
*Summary*
We hope that this will help people out there that have had these questions maybe this has answered some for you. We realize that it is a basic explanation and shows mostly physical traits and a short on temperament. Decker Terriers are a unique dog they are a blend of dogs that have become classic in their own right.
Decker Terrier Home
*Duchess and Baby both are Standard Rat Terriers
