West Highland White Terrier vs. Decker Hunting Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are West Highland White Terriers or Decker Hunting Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, West Highland White Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Decker Hunting Terrier is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier dogs?

Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Active
Playful
Loving
Alert
Intelligent
Affectionate
Lively
Inquisitive
Fearless

Shedding Level

Do West Highland White Terriers shed more than Decker Hunting Terriers, or which breed sheds more, West Highland White Terriers or Decker Hunting Terriers?

1 / 5

West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

4 / 5

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 West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

2 / 5

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

Origin

What is the origin of West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier dog breeds?

Scotland

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Smooth Fox and Rat Terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

National Rat Terrier Association (NRTA)
Decker Hunting Terrier Registry (DHTR)

Date of Birth

When were West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds first developed?

1800s

1970s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier?

Black

Blue
Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

White

Black
Gray
Pied
White
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers have medium-length coats.

2 / 5

Decker Hunting Terriers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier?

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 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.

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

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

5 / 5

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

Health Issues

Between West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

5 / 5

The West Highland White Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

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 West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Heart Conditions

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier?

Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Demodectic Mange
Skin Allergies
Eye Diseases and Disorders

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds?

Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

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

Energy

How do the energy levels of West Highland White Terriers and Decker Hunting Terriers compare?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, these breeds may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

West Highland White Terrier vs Decker Hunting Terrier social needs comparison

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

5 / 5

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

Exercise Needed

West Highland White Terrier vs Decker Hunting Terrier exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

The West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

2 / 5

West Highland White Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

1 / 5

Decker Hunting Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do West Highland White Terriers or Decker Hunting Terriers bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

2 / 5

Decker Hunting Terrier dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: West Highland White Terrier vs Decker Hunting Terrier?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

West Highland White Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Prey Drive

West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier entertained?

Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, West Highland White Terriers or Decker Hunting Terriers?

West Highland White Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Decker Hunting Terriers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Decker Hunting Terrier, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do West Highland White Terriers or Decker Hunting Terriers require more exercise?

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Decker Hunting Terriers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, West Highland White Terriers or Decker Hunting Terriers?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

2 / 5

The Decker Hunting Terrier has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier dogs?

West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for West Highland White Terriers and Decker Hunting Terriers?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier in cups?

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 25-38 pound (11 - 17 kg) Decker Hunting Terrier feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Decker Hunting Terrier is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

The average per month expenses of a West Highland White Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Decker Hunting Terrier is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: West Highland White Terriers vs Decker Hunting Terriers

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

1 / 5

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

Sensitivity Level

How do West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. West Highland White Terrier 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: West Highland White Terrier vs Decker Hunting Terrier?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

4 / 5

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 West Highland White Terriers or Decker Hunting Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

5 / 5

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 - West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

West Highland White Terriers 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: West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

3 / 5

Decker Hunting Terriers are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: West Highland White Terrier or Decker Hunting Terrier?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier?

5 / 5

West Highland White Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

4 / 5

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of West Highland White Terriers and Decker Hunting Terriers compare?

4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier and Decker Hunting Terrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.