The Australian Terrier is one of the earliest breeds approved by kennel organizations in Australia. It is known as Australia’s National Terrier and is considered one of the smallest working Terrier breeds. Some believe that this spirited small dog originated from European breeds and comes from Tasmania. The Australian Terrier has a wiry coat that includes a short, soft undercoat and a harsh, straight outer coat in red, blue, or tan variations. They have a vibrant personality and make excellent working companions. They are affectionate and enjoy spending as much time as possible with their owners, becoming uneasy if left alone for long periods of time.
In terms of grooming, the Australian Terrier’s coat is relatively easy to maintain. Weekly brushing is necessary, and it is recommended to remove the dead coat every few months. Compared to other Terrier breeds, the Australian Terrier is known for being calmer and more relaxed.
Ahead, we look at Australian Terrier dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Australian Terrier, characteristics, and must-see facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Australian Terriers!
| Dog Breed | Australian Terrier |
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 14-18 lbs (average) |
| Height | 10-11″ (average) |
| Location | Australia |
| Ancestry | Terriers, Tasmanian Dog |
| Date of Origin | 1800s |
| Group | Hunting Vermin, Watchdog, Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 11-15 years |
| Price | $1000 – $1500 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Australian Terrier is a dog breed that originated from Tasmania and was bred with various European breeds. It is known as the national breed of Australia and was the first breed to be developed there. Originally, it had different names such as Toy, Blue, and Rough-coated Terrier. The dog was initially exhibited as the “broken-coated terrier of blackish blue sheen”. It was known for its tan and blue variations, with sandy and red markings being developed later. The Australian Terrier was developed in the 1800s using a combination of Dandie Dinmont, Skye, Scottish, Manchester, and Yorkshire Terriers. Its original purpose was to kill snakes and vermin while also serving as a loyal companion.
The Australian Terrier Club was established in Melbourne in 1887, with The Australian Rough-Coated Terrier Club being the first organization to develop the breed to its standard. The official standard for the breed was established in 1896. The Australian Terrier gained popularity in British households and made its first appearance in the United States in 1925. It was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1960.
🐕 Australian Terrier Appearance
The Australian Terrier is a petite, hardy dog with a medium-sized bone structure. Their size consists of being proportionately longer than they are tall. This dog has straight front legs, parallel to each other, pointed ears, and a docked tail. The little front feet have robust pads, arched toes, and strong, black nails. Strong hindquarters are made up of the upper and lower thighs, which are both muscular. They have a long head with tiny, dark brown eyes that are perky and attentive. The tiny, pointed ears are upright and have a point. The canine has strong jaws and a black nose as a matter of course. Their demeanor is constantly attentive and their eyes are often brown, which may be a testament to their ongoing alertness as a working dog. The Australian Terrier may be found in a variety of hues, including red, sandy, and blue and tan. They are a cute dog with a ruff near the chest and a medium-length coat that requires regular care. Additionally, they have a double coat that seems rough to the touch and has a soft undercoat and 2. 5 inches of guards that provide protection from inclement conditions. The hair is short and covers the lower legs, feet, and regions around the nose. With a confident attitude, this adorable pooch retains an air of intellect.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Red, Blue, Cream |
⚡ Fun Fact: Australian Terrier dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Australian Terrier
They are a social dog by nature, and their interactions with others reflect their feisty attitude and sense of sass. This dog, although they can be obstinate, is known for its wit and love of people. They thrive on their independence. A medium-energy canine needs exercise to stay happy and in good physical and mental balance. The Australian Terrier is known as a vibrant dog and has an attentive demeanor. It could be challenging for this hunter to get along with cats and tiny rodents because they were initially developed to hunt and kill pests. They have, however, been shown to adapt to coexisting with different species given training. Either living with one individual or with family members is an option for them. Although initially wary of strangers, this dog will eventually become friendly.
🤝 Are Australian Terriers Friendly or Aggressive?
Australian Terrier dogs thrive when they are the sole pet in a household, as they prefer to have all the attention to themselves. While they are generally friendly towards strangers, they may not be the most outgoing breed. However, Australian Terriers are known to be great with kids, making them a suitable choice for families with children. On the other hand, they do not get along well with cats or other dogs, so they may not be the best fit if you have other pets or if you want to have multiple dogs or participate in dog meetups. Furthermore, Australian Terriers are often recommended for elderly individuals, as they can be well-suited companions for older people.
This breed is known for being:
- Alert
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Outright
- Tempered
- Companionable
- Spirited
🐩 Australian Terrier Care & Maintenance
The rough, wiry coat of the Australian Terrier makes care simple. This rough coat deters dirt and resists matting. To avoid kinks, brushing and combing should be done once a week. Regular brushing also lessens shedding. Every 6 to 8 weeks, dead hair should be stripped off. It is advised to bathe the dog at least once every four weeks to maintain hygiene. A dull-looking coat will result from over-bathing. To encourage oils for a glossy finish, the undercoat should be carefully brushed. To preserve a stylish appearance, trimming is advised if hair around the eyes and ears becomes too long. The nails should be cut every three to four weeks, like with most dogs, to prevent tears brought on by overgrowth. Weekly ear checks are recommended to avoid ear wax accumulation, which can result in infection. The Australian Terrier is a fairly odor-free dog that sheds very little to no hair.
Australian Terrier dogs are known for shedding very little to no hair at all. This makes them an ideal choice for those who are worried about their furniture or car being constantly covered in dog hair. If you have a low tolerance for dog hair, getting a puppy from this breed would be a great option. Additionally, Australian Terrier dogs typically only need to be bathed every 4-6 weeks, which can be convenient for those who prefer not to spend too much time on frequent grooming.
🍖 Food: We recommend 1 cups daily, costing you about $1.00 – $1.00 daily, or roughly $25.00 – $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Australian Terrier dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 12 miles per week, which equates to about 90 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Australian Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
❤️🩹 Australian Terrier Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Australian Terrier Dog Breed can be:
- Diabetes
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
While minor concerns include:
- None
🤧 Important: Is Australian Terrier hypoallergenic? Yes.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Australian Terrier.
⚡ Australian Terrier Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Australian Terrier a great choice for families with young children?
The Australian Terrier is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to be affectionate and enjoy spending time with their human companions. They have a lot of spirit and can keep up with the energy of children, making them a fun playmate.
Is the Australian Terrier breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Australian Terrier breed is considered suitable for apartment living. They are one of the smallest working Terrier breeds and do not require a large living space. However, they will still need regular exercise to keep them content and well-balanced.
How much exercise does a Australian Terrier require compared to other breeds?
Compared to other breeds, the Australian Terrier requires a moderate amount of exercise. They have a medium-level energy and will benefit from daily walks and playtime. However, they do not have the same high exercise needs as some other breeds.
Is the Australian Terrier breed known for being good with other pets?
The Australian Terrier breed can have a high prey drive due to their hunting background. While they can adapt to living with other pets with proper training and socialization, they may not be the best choice for households with cats and small rodents.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Australian Terrier?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Australian Terrier include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Bichon Frise, and the Shih Tzu. These breeds have similar size and grooming needs as the Australian Terrier but may have slightly different temperaments.
What are the common health issues that Australian Terriers are prone to?
Australian Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain health issues. Some common health issues seen in Australian Terriers include patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to ensure their well-being.
Are Australian Terriers known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Australian Terriers are known for their intelligence and can be relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. However, they can also be stubborn at times, so consistent and positive reinforcement training methods are recommended.
Are Australian Terriers more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Australian Terriers can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. They are a breed that craves company and may become anxious when separated from their human companions. Proper training, socialization, and providing mental stimulation can help alleviate this issue.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Australian Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Australian Terrier that are suitable for people with allergies are the Poodle, the Bichon Frise, and the Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens, making them a better choice for individuals with allergies.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Australian Terrier are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Australian Terrier would be the best option. Some examples of small dog breeds that are suitable for limited space include the Shih Tzu, the French Bulldog, and the Boston Terrier.
Is the Australian Terrier breed known to be good with children with special needs?
Australian Terriers can be good with children with special needs, as they are known for their affectionate nature and adaptability. However, as with any dog, close supervision and proper socialization are important to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Australian Terrier?
The grooming needs of the Australian Terrier are moderate. They have a wiry coat that requires weekly brushing to prevent matting. Additionally, they will need to have their dead coat stripped every few months. They are a low-shedding breed, which can make them more suitable for individuals with allergies compared to other breeds that shed more.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Australian Terrier dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
