Decker Brat
Hybrid Breed Description
The Decker Brat is a cross between the Decker Hunting Terrier and the Boston Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Decker Brat. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Decker Hunting Terrier
The Decker Hunting Terrier is a well-muscled, athletic dog with a compact yet substantial build designed for hunting and sporting activities. Standing 15 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 20 and 40 pounds, these dogs are noticeably larger than standard Rat Terriers from which they were derived, though they remain classified as small to medium-sized dogs. Males tend toward the upper end of the size range while females are typically slightly smaller. Their bodies are slightly longer than tall, creating rectangular proportions rather than the square build seen in many terrier breeds. The chest is deep and broad, extending well down between strong, straight forelegs, while powerful hindquarters provide the explosive drive necessary for jumping, running, and quick directional changes during hunting. The muscular neck flows smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders, and the overall structure conveys both strength and agility. The head is distinctively broad and wedge-shaped, with the skull tapering into the muzzle and squaring off at the end, setting Deckers apart from the narrower-headed standard Rat Terrier. Face wrinkles are common and add to the breed's expressive appearance, along with a certain regal elegance in their bearing and movement. The ears can be either fully erect or tipped, carried alert when the dog is attentive. Eyes are medium-sized, dark, and intelligent in expression. The tail varies among individuals, as some are born with natural bobtails while others have full-length tails, all of which are left in their natural state rather than being docked. When working, the tail carriage is variable and not considered important to breed type. The coat is short, smooth, and lies close to the body, requiring minimal grooming while providing adequate protection during outdoor activities. Coat colors show considerable variety and include solid colors, bi-colors, and tri-colors, with or without white markings. Traditional undiluted colors such as black, black and tan, tan with or without sabling, and apricot are preferred, though chocolate and dilute colors like blue and fawn also appear. White is commonly present, either as patches on a colored base or as the primary color with colored markings. The short coat sheds moderately and the breed has minimal doggy odor. Overall, the Decker presents as a sturdy, athletic hunting terrier with confident carriage and an appearance that balances power with agility.
Key Characteristics
Decker Hunting Terriers possess the lively, fearless, and determined temperament characteristic of terrier breeds, combined with a notably calmer and more balanced disposition than many of their terrier cousins. Originally developed for their superior hunting instincts and ability to work closely with their handlers, these dogs are clever and alert, displaying strong prey drive and natural abilities in tracking, treeing, and pursuing game ranging from small varmints to deer. Despite their hunting prowess, Deckers are not typically yappy or nervous like some terriers, instead demonstrating a quiet confidence and tendency to bark only when there's genuine reason. This measured approach to vocalization makes them more suitable for various living situations than many terrier breeds. Their intelligence and eagerness to learn allow them to pick up training faster than most dogs, and they genuinely enjoy having a job to do and pleasing their owners. The breed forms deep, loyal bonds with their families and thrives on close companionship, following their owners throughout the house and wanting to participate in all activities. Decker Hunting Terriers are affectionate and loving toward their people, equally content whether accompanying an active hunter in the field or relaxing as a house companion. They generally show good temperament with children, particularly when raised with them from puppyhood, and their sturdy build makes them less fragile than many small dogs. While friendly toward people they know, Deckers maintain enough natural wariness to serve effectively as watchdogs, alerting their families to unusual activity. They typically get along well with other dogs of similar or larger size, though proper socialization remains important. However, their strong prey drive means smaller animals may trigger chasing instincts unless the dog receives consistent training to curb this behavior. Energy levels are moderately high to high, and these athletic dogs require substantial daily exercise to maintain physical fitness and mental contentment. Long daily walks or jogs are essential, ideally supplemented with opportunities to run in secure areas and engage in activities that challenge both body and mind. Swimming, hunting, agility training, and advanced obedience work all appeal to the breed's athletic nature and intelligence. Without adequate physical activity and mental stimulation, Deckers may become bored and develop problematic behaviors. The breed's hunting background means they possess independent thinking abilities but also strong instincts that can make recall training challenging in uncontrolled environments. Consistent leadership and positive reinforcement training methods work best with this eager but sometimes willful breed. Their mild temperament and devotion to family make them well-rounded companions for active households that can provide the exercise, training, and companionship these versatile terriers require.
As a relatively recent breed developed in the 1970s with diverse genetic heritage from Rat Terriers, Fox Terriers, and other working breeds, Decker Hunting Terriers generally enjoy robust health with fewer documented genetic issues than many purebred dogs. The breed's development emphasized working ability and soundness over appearance, which has contributed to overall genetic diversity and vigor. However, as with any dog breed, Deckers can be susceptible to certain health conditions that owners should monitor. Hip dysplasia, though less common in smaller dogs, can occur and involves abnormal formation of the hip joint that may lead to arthritis and mobility issues over time. Responsible breeders screen for this condition, and maintaining appropriate body weight through proper diet and exercise helps minimize its impact. Patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of its normal position, is relatively common in small to medium terrier breeds and can affect Deckers. Mild cases may cause occasional limping or skipping, while severe cases can require surgical intervention to prevent chronic pain and arthritis development. Regular veterinary examinations can detect this condition early, and keeping dogs at healthy weights reduces stress on the joints. Eye problems including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts can occur in terrier breeds, though dedicated breeders work to minimize these through health testing of breeding stock. Regular eye examinations help identify issues before they progress to vision loss. Like all active, athletic dogs, Deckers benefit from joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin to support long-term mobility, especially for individuals participating in demanding activities like hunting or agility. Dental health deserves attention as terrier breeds can be prone to tartar buildup and periodontal disease, requiring regular tooth brushing and professional cleanings to prevent infections. Allergies affecting the skin or gastrointestinal system occasionally appear in the breed, manifesting as itching, inflammation, or digestive upset. These typically respond well to dietary modifications or medical management. With proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, adequate exercise, and responsible breeding practices, Decker Hunting Terriers typically enjoy a lifespan of 15 to 18 years, which is notably longer than many breeds of similar size. The breed's emphasis on working ability and sound structure has helped maintain good overall health, making them relatively low-maintenance in terms of hereditary health concerns compared to many purebred dogs.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a compact, well-proportioned small dog with a distinctive square-shaped build and refined, elegant appearance that has earned them the nickname "American Gentleman." These dogs are divided into three weight classes: under 15 pounds, 15 to 20 pounds, and 20 to 25 pounds, with males typically standing about 17 inches tall and females around 16 inches at the shoulder. Despite their relatively small size, Boston Terriers possess a sturdy, muscular frame with substantial bone structure that gives them surprising strength and presence. The body is short with a square appearance when viewed from the side, length approximately equal to height. They feature a broad, deep chest that extends well forward between strong, straight legs set somewhat wide apart. The head is one of the breed's most distinctive features, characterized by a large, square skull that is flat on top with a well-defined stop where it meets the muzzle. The muzzle itself is short, square, wide, and deep, measuring approximately one-third the length of the skull, and should never appear tapered or pointed. The nose is black with a well-defined line between the nostrils. Boston Terriers are brachycephalic, meaning they have a pushed-in facial structure that creates their characteristic flat-faced appearance. The eyes are large, round, dark, and set wide apart, creating an alert, kind, and intelligent expression that is instantly recognizable. The small, thin ears are positioned as near the corners of the skull as possible and are carried erect, giving them a distinctive "bat ear" appearance, though some individuals are born with floppy ears. The coat is short, smooth, and fine in texture with a natural sheen. Boston Terriers have very specific color and marking patterns that are essential to the breed standard and contribute to their tuxedo-like appearance. The base colors are black, brindle, or seal, always combined with white markings. Required markings include a white muzzle band, white blaze between the eyes, and white chest. Desired markings also include a white collar and white on the front legs extending up to the hocks on the rear legs. The symmetry and balance of these markings are important for show dogs. The short tail is set low and may be straight or slightly curved, never exceeding two inches in length, as the breed naturally carries a short tail due to genetic makeup. The overall impression is one of determination, strength, grace, and elegance packed into a compact, well-balanced package.
Key Characteristics
Boston Terriers are renowned for their gentle, friendly, and affectionate nature combined with a lively, entertaining personality that endears them to people of all ages. Often described as having a happy-go-lucky attitude, these dogs possess a merry sense of humor and consistently amuse their families with playful antics and expressive facial communication. Their even temperament and adaptability make them exceptional companion dogs suitable for various living situations, from apartments to larger homes, and they thrive in households ranging from singles and couples to families with children and seniors. Boston Terriers form strong attachments to their families and enjoy being involved in daily activities, preferring to stay close to their favorite people throughout the day. Despite their clownish side, they maintain a sensible, well-mannered demeanor that reflects their refined heritage. The breed demonstrates remarkable intelligence and eagerness to please, making them generally responsive to training when positive reinforcement methods are employed. Boston Terriers learn commands and tricks readily, though they can display occasional stubbornness that requires patience and consistency from their owners. They are sensitive dogs whose feelings can be hurt by harsh corrections, so gentle yet firm training approaches work best. Early socialization helps ensure they develop into confident, well-adjusted adults comfortable in various situations. While naturally friendly toward people, including strangers, Boston Terriers also possess protective instincts toward their families and can be territorial, making them effective watchdogs who alert to unusual activity without becoming excessive barkers. Their moderate barking tendency is considered one of their assets for apartment living. Energy levels are moderate rather than extremely high, and Boston Terriers enjoy a balance between playful activity and relaxation. They appreciate daily walks, interactive play sessions, and games like fetch, but they are equally content to curl up for extended periods of rest beside their owners. Their brachycephalic structure means owners must be cautious during exercise, particularly in hot or humid weather, as their shortened airways make them vulnerable to breathing difficulties and overheating. Play sessions should be monitored and kept relatively short to prevent respiratory distress. The breed generally gets along well with other dogs and household pets when properly introduced, and their sturdy build makes them more tolerant of children's enthusiasm compared to more delicate toy breeds, though supervision remains important. Their friendly, adaptable, and affectionate nature combined with moderate exercise needs and manageable size make Boston Terriers ideal companions for a wide variety of households.
Boston Terriers face several significant health challenges, most notably related to their brachycephalic facial structure which creates the flat face and pushed-in nose that defines the breed. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome encompasses multiple anatomical abnormalities including stenotic nares with abnormally narrow nostrils, elongated soft palate that partially blocks the airway, and sometimes hypoplastic trachea with abnormally narrow windpipe. These structural issues cause breathing difficulties that range from noisy breathing and snoring to exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity, and in severe cases, life-threatening respiratory distress. Affected dogs often require surgical intervention to widen nostrils or shorten the soft palate. The shortened airways also reduce the effectiveness of panting for temperature regulation, making Boston Terriers extremely vulnerable to heatstroke even in moderately warm weather, necessitating careful monitoring during exercise and hot days. The breed's prominent, protruding eyes make them susceptible to various ocular problems including corneal ulcers from scratches or trauma, cataracts causing lens clouding and vision impairment, and glaucoma involving increased intraocular pressure that can lead to blindness if untreated. The eyes require careful monitoring and immediate veterinary attention for any signs of injury or disease. Patellar luxation occurs frequently in Boston Terriers, where the kneecap slips out of its groove causing pain, limping, and potential arthritis. Depending on severity, treatment ranges from conservative management to surgical correction. Hip dysplasia, though more common in larger breeds, also affects some Boston Terriers and involves malformation of the hip joint leading to arthritis and mobility issues. Deafness affects white-colored Boston Terriers at higher rates than other colors due to genetic factors associated with white pigmentation. Responsible breeders test for hearing problems in puppies. The breed's short, wide skull structure means many Boston Terrier bitches require cesarean sections for whelping, with over 80 percent of litters delivered this way in some surveys. Dental disease is common due to their short muzzles causing crowding of teeth, requiring vigilant home care and regular professional cleanings. Allergies manifesting as skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues affect some individuals. Despite these health challenges, Boston Terriers typically live 11 to 15 years when provided with attentive care including weight management to reduce strain on joints and airways, careful monitoring during warm weather, regular veterinary examinations, and prompt treatment of any health concerns. Selecting puppies from health-tested parents significantly reduces hereditary disease risk.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Decker Brat may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Decker Hunting Terrier and Boston Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.