Breed Description
Coat
The Australian Terrier is a double coat breed. The outer coat is straight, harsh, and rough in texture. The under coat is soft, dense, and short. This breeds weatherproof coat is longer on the body than the hair on the tail, rear legs, and feet. There is a protective ruff of softer hair at the neck, which blends into an apron. The forelegs have light feathering and there is a topknot of soft and fine hair, which covers only the top of the head. The color of the coat comes in dark blue, silvery blue with tan markings on the legs and head, solid red, and sandy. This breed sheds little to no hair.
Overview
Classified as one of the smallest working terriers, this breed was developed in Australia. They were bred for a variety of uses such as watchdog, shepherd, vermin hunter, and companion. Australian Terriers hold the unique distinction of being the first native-bred Australian dog to be shown and the first to be recognized in other countries.
Character
The Australian Terrier is low-set, sturdy, and small in stature. However, their small size belies their exhibition of a strong and true terrier nature. This breed is proud, hardy, alert and confident. They are bold, fearless, and charming. They are an excellent choice for a variety of lifestyles and make lovely companions.
Temperament
This breed displays the bravery and courage of much larger dogs. The Australian Terrier is extremely affectionate with their family, loyal, and highly intelligent. They are exceedingly amusing, spirited, and curious. This breed does best in a home with older considerate children. They get along with other dogs and household pets, but do have a propensity for chasing the family cat as well as small outdoor animals such as squirrel and rabbit. They thrive on human interaction and do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. The Australian Terrier has acute hearing as well as keen eyesight and makes an excellent watchdog. They are wary of strangers but are not aggressive unless provoked
Care
This breed requires brushing several times a week. They also need the coat plucked every three months Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat. Trimming around the eyes and ears should be done as needed. The Australian Terrier is a relatively healthy breed. However, they may be prone to patella luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, diabetes, epilepsy, skin allergies, and thyroid disorders.
Training
The Australian Terrier is quick to learn but is easily bored by repetition. Early socialization and obedience training is a must. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed does best when trained with consistency, firmness, fairness, praise, and motivation. They are very adept in the areas of agility, tracking, earthdog, and obedience.
Activity
This breed requires exercise on a regular basis to keep them physically and mentally fit. If they become bored they will become destructive. The Australian Terrier enjoys securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and a romp in a safe area. They do well in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise and stimulation.
Ownership
If you are looking for Australian Terrier puppies for sale from reputable Australian Terrier breeders or to adopt an Australian Terrier from an Australian Terrier rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Australian Terrier puppy above. Search our dog breeds section to find Australian Terrier puppies, dogs and puppies that make great pets.