General Description

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Australian Terriers are one of the smallest breeds of Terriers. They are compact, sturdy dogs with short legs and a body that is slightly longer than it is tall. Their strong chests are comparably wide and deep, and they have a level topline. They have long heads with lively dark eyes and a pair of erect, v-shaped ears. Above their black noses is a v-shaped space. Australian Terriers have teethe that meet in a scissor bite and an upright, docked tail. The breed’s coat is rough in texture and weatherproof. It is typically 2 to 3 inches in length and exists in a variety of colors including solid red, sandy, or dark or silvery blue. Tan markings on the head and legs may be present. Australian Terriers have a stop knot between their ears and an apron and ruff that are lighter in color than the rest of their coat.

Character

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Australian Terriers are energetic, playful little dogs with a lot of spunk and personality. They posses the courage of a much larger dog, and they have unlimited energy and affection. They are loyal to their families and are protective companions. Because of their extremely high intelligence, Australian Terriers are very curious and good at learning tricks. They need strict training, however, because they are very self-confident and prefer to stick to their own agenda. Australian Terriers learn very quickly and is more easily obedience trained than most other terriers. They don’t snap, but they like to bark and chase small animals or objects. Although they can sometimes be leery of strangers, they are not overly suspicious. They are friendly with other dogs and pets, and they are very good with children. They have a natural inclination to please, and they make excellent watchdogs. Australian Terriers make terrific, energetic, happy-go-lucky family pets.

General Health

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Australian Terriers are a healthy breed that is free from any major health concerns or hereditary diseases. They typically live for 15 or more years and they average 4 puppies per litter.

Among 619 living dogs in the 2002 Australian Terrier Club of America survey, the most commonly reported health problems were endocrine (primarily diabetes), allergic dermatitis, and musculoskeletal (primarily luxating patella and ruptured cranial cruciate ligament).Other conditions reported among more than 4% of the surveyed dogs were adult onset cataracts and ear infections. The much smaller 2004 UKC survey, with 28 living dogs, suggested similar health concerns.

History

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Australian Terriers were developed in Australia. They were first shown as the Australian Rough-Coated Terrier in 1868. The breed was distinctively recognized in 1933. Australian Terriers were likely created by crossing many different Terrier breeds like the Cairn, Irish, Norwich, Dandie Dinmot, Yorkshire, and Skye. Australian Terriers are one of the smallest working terriers and were originally used to hunt rodents and snakes. They were also utilized as watchdogs, companions, and even shepherds. Relatively new to the United States, the Australian Terrier wasn’t recognized by the AKC in 1960.

Maintenance

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Australian Terriers have a long, stiff, shaggy coat that is easy to groom and maintain. The breed’s coat should be brushed several times a week to stimulate natural oil production and give the coat a glossy sheen. Owners should be gentle when brushing the undercoat. Australian Terriers should only be washed as necessary. Excessive bathing can make the breed’s coat lank. Hair should be trimmed and plucked around the eyes and ears as necessary, and nails should be clipped regularly. Australian Terriers shed little to no hair.

Ideal Environment

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Australian Terriers are adaptable dogs that are content to live in nearly any situation. They enjoy exercise and are happiest when they can romp and play in a small area. Rigorous exercise and/or a big backyard isn’t necessary to ensure this breed’s happiness, but they like to go for walks and explore. They are fairly active indoors and they shouldn’t be allowed to roam free because of their propensity to chase things.

Australian Terrier Q&AAsk a Question

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  what does it mean when you are inside and you dog starts acting like he is cold?

  what does it mean when you are inside and you dog starts acting like he is cold?

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