Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier displays an above-level of intelligence that is expected of a dog, which means that they are slightly easier to train and obedient than other breeds. They are most noted for their fearlessness and durability.

Behavior

With a good level of trainability, they are extremely receptive and obedient, spirited, and alert for movement. They have a tendency to be “dog-oriented.”

While they may work well with humans as companions, take extra care when introducing them to a multi-pet home. Adult males do not cooperate well with other adult males.

Australian Terriers do well with families if introduced at an early enough age, can live alone with just one other human, and works just as well indoors as well as outdoors. However, it is suggested that if the terrier does live with a family that they aren’t kept outdoors in the backyard separate from the family.

Owner beware like so many other small breeds, they suffer from “small dog syndrome,” so ensure that this breed knows who the alpha is.

They are excellent watchdogs, though prone to barking, so if someone were to live in an apartment or condo, they would need to teach their terrier how to keep their noise to a minimal growl.

They have extreme amount of energy, so if they get bored (and they willquite easily) they may try to dig up as many holes as they can or scare any family cats that are around.

Appearance

At most, they stand at most to 10 inches at the shoulder, and can get up to 14 pounds. Most notably, they have incredibly short legs and a harsh double coat which does well with any type of weather, and a docked tail (depending if they live in the states or their place of origin.)

Their hair has a tendency to be shorter on the muzzle, legs, and feet, with a ruff around the neck. Their color variations include tan with black.

Their face muzzle is medium length, with pointed, alert ears.

Grooming

On average, Australian terriers only need to be bathed three or 4 times a year, unless if he is exceptionally filthy. However, this breed needs to be brushed at least once a week. For the body, use a firm brush, and a bristle brush for their face. The feathery hair that hangs around their feet should be trimmed.

Make sure to check for eyes and clean them of any debris.

In terms of health, they live to about 11 years (most likely less, since they are a small, purebred dog), and will die of either cancer, old age, unknown causes of death, or diabetes.

History

The development of the Australian Terrier first started in 1820, crossing breeds such as the Dandie Dimont Terrier, the Yorkshire terrier, and Irish terriers.

Like many of its kind, it was bred for running quickly in small spaces to catch rodents.

They were the first Australian breed to be shown in its own land, and to be introduced and accepted into other countries. They were bred in times of poverty, and for rough terrain, so they are quite resilient, making them excellent pets.