Australian Terrier
Australian Terrier is a small terrier breed that was developed in Australia, and its original purpose was to control vermin and snakes. They are your typical Terrier breed - active and inquisitive. They are also fearless and will take on any kind of danger or threat to protect their family and land.
In more recent times, the Australian Terrier can be found in the role of a family pet that does well in dog shows and dog sports such as agility. These dogs had to be fast and agile to take on the deadly Australian snakes, and those traits were successfully translated to dog sports.
Height:
10-11 in (25-28 cm)
Weight:
15-20 lb (7-9 kg)
Origin:
Australia
Life Expectancy:
11-15 years
Dog Breed Characteristics
The Australian Terrier’s characteristics are those of a typical Terrier. They are rather small, sturdy, and longer than they are tall. They are, nonetheless, well-proportioned and muscled. They are rather strong compared to their size. These dogs have a rugged appearance.
They should have black noses and small, oval eyes that are usually dark brown and have a keen expression. The Australian Terrier should have small, pointed, and erect ears that are set rather wide apart. They have short limbs that are better suited for short bursts of speed than for covering great distances.
Grooming
Australian Terrier has a shaggy coat and a soft undercoat. Grooming needs for these dogs are minimal. They do shed, but little and regular brushing will keep the dog looking good.
Australian Terrier coat colors:
- blue and tan
- solid sandy
- solid red
They will also need other basic care, Australian Terrier at least three times a week. Check their ears for signs of infection and redness, bathe them when needed, and trim their nails if they don’t wear them down naturally.
Australian Terrier temperament
Australian Terrier’s temperament is happy and energetic. They love being a part of everyday activities and love to be included in all family matters. They are extremely active and hate to be bored. They will follow you around inside the house, and outside, they will explore as far and wide as they can.
The Australian Terrier can be a great watchdog that will notify you about anyone approaching your gate or door. They are very friendly towards children, but kids should know how to interact with such a small breed.
Australian Terrier training and socialization
The Australian Terrier training sessions should be fun and interesting. They will not respond well to training that is too repetitive and bores them. They will love outdoor training sessions, and if you can keep them interested, these dogs will show great results.
One of the best ways to keep your Australian Terrier interested in training is to implement reward-based training, with the reward being food or treats. Never use harsh training methods, and don’t use punishment or fear because that can result in an overly shy or even aggressive dog.
Australian Terrier’s socialization should start as soon as they arrive at your home. They are not the friendliest of breeds and have an ego and confidence of a much bigger dog. Take them to busy parks while they are still young so that your dog can learn proper ways to interact with other dogs and people. Expose them to different situations, sights, and sounds so they can feel confident in any future situation they may find themselves in.
Health problems
Australian Terriers are dogs with a life expectancy of 11-15 years. Like any other dog breed, they are prone to some health problems that every (future) owner should be aware of. To ensure you'll get the healthiest possible dog, never buy a dog from a puppy mill breeder or a pet store. Australian Terrier can suffer from
- allergies
- patellar luxation
- diabetes
To be sure that your dog will be healthy, always buy him from a responsible dog breeder who regularly tests their breeding dogs to secure that their puppies will be healthy as well.
Breeders
If you decide that this is the right dog for you, now it's time to find a good and responsible Australian Terrier breeder. Buying a dog from such a breeder will provide you with a healthy puppy who will not have health and temperament problems.
Buying a dog from a responsible breeder will cost you more money, but you can be sure that you will get a healthy puppy. If you are unable to buy a dog, we advise you to search for local animal shelters because there is a chance you can find an Australian Terrier dog in it.
If you are unsure whether this is the breed for you, check out this FREE GUIDE that will help you decide which dog breed is right for you.
SEARCH AUSTRALIAN TERRIER BREEDERS
World Dog Finder team
Updated at31.08.2023.
Breed History
Australian Terrier is descended from Rough Coated Terrier. These dogs were set to work in all kinds of weather conditions. Australian Terrier was used as watchdogs, shepherds but also as companions. American Kennel Club officially recognized this dog breed in 1960.
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