Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier may be one of the lessor known terrier breeds, but they are one of Australia’s most enduring breeds. These dogs definitely retain the classic terrier spunk, but are more easy-going than most. They can readily become a fun companion for an active home. Read on to learn more about the Australian Terrier.

Description of the Australian Terrier

These dogs are sturdy and tough. They’re balls of muscle packed into a compact little parcel: a proper terrier. Aussie’s larger heads and long bodies give them the look of a cute little tank.

The Australian Terrier is a mix of some of the best British terriers, including the Cairn, Dandie Dinmont, Norwich, Scottie, and Skye. British brought some of their favorite specimens when colonizing the island, and the diverse breed took off from there.

The Aussie has a harsh coat that can come in a variety of colors. It may be blue and tan, red, or sandy.

Life Expectancy and Size

The Australian Terrier is a healthy breed. They usually live to be between 12 and 15 years old.

Generally, they stand quite short at 10 to 11 inches tall and weigh a sturdy 15 to 20 pounds.

Protective Ability

This breed is known for its spunk, but is by no means a protector. They may be scrappy, especially if provoked on their territory. However, most likely, they’ll just alert you with a sharp bark to anything that may be amiss.

Training

The Australian Terrier is an efficient learner. These dogs should not be difficult to train with a consistent owner. Starting early in a puppy kindergarten can help them become polite adults that are much easier to handle.

The Aussie thrives off of positive feedback. They generally dislike routine, because they bore easily. Keep sessions short and sweet to keep their attention and enthusiasm.

Energy Level

Terriers are very high energy. Australian Terriers, in particular, also thrive off of social time. It always important to provide them with adequate exercise, most efficiently done through playtime. Ensuring that they have time to use up their energy productively will help to keep them out of trouble.

What Living with an Australian Terrier is Like

The Australian Terrier is a fun dog to own. They retain the spunk of the terrier without quite as much excess energy. This makes them the perfect versatile pet. They can both keep up with active owners and then come home to be an enjoyable family dog.

These dogs tend to bond closely with their owners, and need plenty of social time. These are not outdoor pets. Although they usually get on well with other pets, some individuals can become jealous when they seem to be losing attention.

The Australian may not be the best fit for small children. They tend not to tolerate rough play well, and may snap at an energetic child. These dogs do better with adults or well-behaved, older children.

Care of the Australian Terrier

Caring for the Australian Terrier is most dependent on adequate social time and exercise.

Environmental Needs

These dogs can handle a variety of weather conditions quite well. Their coats are harsh and weather wicking.

Exercise Needs

This breed enjoys play more than anything, and may be able to get most of their energy out by running around a safe, enclosed area. They may also appreciate daily walks. These dogs love human interaction. Games like fetch or Frisbee are good options to keep them interested and moving.

Be careful to supervise this inquisitive dog during play. If left alone, they may get themselves into trouble rather than fruitful activity. Enclosed spaces are always the safest. Off leash, Aussies may not resist the urge to chase.

Shedding and Grooming

This breed’s harsh coat is almost completely self-care. Brushing every week or two will keep the Aussie free from debris. These dogs generally only need baths a few times a year. The breed is prone to skin irritation, so make sure to use the appropriate bathing products.

Shedding from this breed is quite low.

Ideal Home Environment

The Australian Terrier is perfect for a loving, active owner that desires the spunk of a terrier without as much excess energy. Their compact size can be great for smaller homes as long as they have access to a safe outdoor space.

Older kids should be fine with the Aussie as long as the dogs are properly socialized. They should also get along fine with other family pets, as long as they get enough individual attention.

Health Concerns

This breed is remarkably healthy. They are much sturdier than many other breeds of their size.

As they age, they may begin to develop hip problems, including Legg-Calve-Perth disease, which may need surgery. Maintaining their fitness and a healthy weight is the best way to avoid this problem.

The Australian Terrier is also known to have skin allergies.

Behavior Problems

The Australian Terrier’s behavior problems are similar to those of other terriers. If left alone in the yard, their hunting instincts can begin to kick in. This could mean digging, barking, or chasing. Their behavior tends to improve when they receive adequate exercise.

Some individuals have been known to be possessive.