Miniature American Shepherd vs Decker Hunting Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: MAS or Decker?

Compare the Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a MAS or a Decker? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

MAS, Ameri, North American Shepherd, Mini American

Decker, Giant Rat Terrier, Decker Giant, Decker Rat Terrier

Weight

What is the average weight of Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier?

16.0 pounds ( 7 kg )

31.5 pounds ( 14 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier

13.0 inches ( 33 cm )

20.5 inches ( 52.1 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Miniature American Shepherds or Decker Hunting Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Miniature American Shepherd nor Decker Hunting Terrier are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier dogs?

Devoted
Intelligent
Energetic
Loyal

Active
Playful
Loving
Alert
Intelligent
Affectionate
Lively
Inquisitive
Fearless

Shedding Level

Do Miniature American Shepherds shed more than Decker Hunting Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Miniature American Shepherds or Decker Hunting Terriers?

Miniature American Shepherds are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Decker Hunting Terriers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier?

Miniature American Shepherds are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Decker Hunting Terriers aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

Origin

What is the origin of Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier dog breeds?

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

Basque Shepherd, Australian Shepherd

Smooth Fox and Rat Terrier

Date of Birth

When were Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds first developed?

1960s

1970s

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier?

13-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Miniature American Shepherd can have a litter of 13-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

5-7 puppies per pregnancy

A Decker Hunting Terrier can have a litter of 5-7 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Miniature American Shepherds may have difficulty adjusting to changes in lifestyle and living environments, preferring consistency.

Decker Hunting Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Miniature American Shepherds are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Decker Hunting Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems
Von Willebrand's Disease

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Heart Conditions

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier?

Deafness
Eyelid Defects
Nasal Solar Dermatitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Demodectic Mange
Skin Allergies
Eye Diseases and Disorders

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

Eye
Hip
Hearing
Skeletal
X-Rays
Physical Examination
Skin Evaluation

BAER Testing
Skin Samples
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Eye and Ear Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Miniature American Shepherds and Decker Hunting Terriers compare?

Miniature American Shepherds thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Decker Hunting Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Miniature American Shepherd vs Decker Hunting Terrier social needs comparison

Miniature American Shepherd has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Decker Hunting Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Miniature American Shepherd vs Decker Hunting Terrier exercise need comparison.

Miniature American Shepherds need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Decker Hunting Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier?

Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Miniature American Shepherds or Decker Hunting Terriers bark more/less frequently?

Compared to most other breeds, Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier tend to be less vocal and bark less frequently. They typically only bark when necessary, such as to communicate or alert their owner, and do not bark excessively, especially when left alone.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Miniature American Shepherd vs Decker Hunting Terrier?

Roaming urge

Miniature American Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier entertained?

Swimming, Tug-of-war, Car-rides, Boating, Fetch, Chase, Walk, Run, Walking, Playing, Barking, Running, Frisbee, Herding, Dog Parks, Smelling Fauna

Walk, Hike, Play, Run, Beach, Walking, Hiking, Jumping

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Miniature American Shepherds or Decker Hunting Terriers?

Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier are breeds of dogs that are known for their low grooming needs.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Miniature American Shepherds vs Decker Hunting Terriers

Miniature American Shepherds are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Decker Hunting Terrier is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Sensitivity Level

How do Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Miniature American Shepherd vs Decker Hunting Terrier?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier?

Miniature American Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

The Decker Hunting Terrier is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Miniature American Shepherds or Decker Hunting Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Miniature American Shepherds are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Decker Hunting Terriers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier?

Cat Friendly

Do Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Miniature American Shepherds and Decker Hunting Terriers are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier?

{Miniature American Shepherds and Decker Hunting Terriers are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Miniature American Shepherd or Decker Hunting Terrier?

Miniature American Shepherds are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Decker Hunting Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Miniature American Shepherd and Decker Hunting Terrier?

Miniature American Shepherds are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Decker Hunting Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Miniature American Shepherds and Decker Hunting Terriers compare?

The Miniature American Shepherd is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

Decker Hunting Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.